FLAGS

Q. I am a section leader and recently one of my youth members has `Come Out` and would like some support.
A. There is a factsheet available, published by The Scout Association Entitled Supporting a young person who is gay in Scouting

Q. One of our youth members has recently ‘come out’ and we are going on camp in a few weeks time, we are worried about sleeping arrangements, what should we do.
A. You should continue to follow the Nights away rules, in POR, Facsheets and Nights Away publication, there is no difference based on someone’s sexuality, however you should listen to everyone’s concerns and treat everyone equally.

Q. I am involved with appointments locally and have heare`d one of our members is a member of FLAGS, should I discuss this with the Member?
A. It may be best not to as the member may not have come out and hence cause insensitivities.

Q. I think that one of the members of my Group might be Lesbian but they haven’t come out yet, what should I do?
A. Regardless of the above there should be an atmosphere set where everyone is accepted, you shouldn`t try to ‘Out’ someone as this could be damaging but you can prepare any ‘Coming Out’ a positive time for them as it is a very difficult thing to do.

Q. I am a District Commissioner and I have had reports one of the our members is being homophobic, what should I do.
A. You should approach the manner in a polite, professional and appropriate manner remembering that the person is a volunteer, explain to them about the Scout Associations Equal Opportunities policy and that they are required to abide by it.

Q. I have been asked to countersign a Flags CRB check but the member has asked for the form back, rather than I send it off is this correct?
A. Yes, the memeber needs to return the CRB to the Flags secretary for processing, see a letter detailing the process.