Part of the appeal of Guiding is the provision of activities that Guides would not normally get involved in, in  the home environment: be they crafts, outdoor activity, games, adventurous activities whether they be kayaking, canoeing, abseiling, archery, high ropes, carting,  climbing or a walk around a campsite in the dark.

The Girlguiding UK has strict rules regulating these activities and when appropriate, trained instructors are used for activities. As girls get older, they are encouraged to take a leadership role in the Guide Pack. This is always done under the overall supervision of the Guide Leader, again following nationally set guidelines.

Generally, camps and events run for the whole Pack are organised by the Guide Leaders, District, Division, County or Girlguiding UK; whereas smaller Patrol events are organised more by the girls or Young Leaders. In information circulated to parents about particular events, the level of supervision will always be made clear. Parental permission and Health forms will also be issued for any external One day activity or overnight events.

From time to time, training will be arranged in some outdoor sports, such as kayaking, to allow girls to gain their own qualifications. Some of these activities will be done through Girlguiding UK, others will be through external bodies and organisations; such as Potteries Paddlers, The Ski Club

At meetings and all Guide events, a first aid kit is carried and most Leaders are trained in first aid.

Girlguiding UK operates a Safe from Harm policy.

Guiding has always been about offering girls fun, adventure and activity. However, in order for an activity to contain an element of challenge, it may also include an element of risk. This can be risks to those taking part, or risks to units funds and property - but risks can be managed. Girlguiding UK's risk assessment has been prepared to help Guiders and event Leaders think about risks involved in the activities they are planning, so that they can be managed before the event, in this way the aim is to reduce the risk of harm to members.

We also coach the guides in observing and avoiding risks in their environment, activities and lives.

Bullying is not tolerated in our Unit.

We encourage the girls to talk to Leaders about concerns with any individual, or activity, so that concerns and risks can be dealt with.

This page was last updated 23 November 2008