Risk Management 

The concept of ‘risk management’ is relatively simple and can be applied equally to accidents involving physical injury and to the protection of a Group’s assets. The idea is to identify potential risks and then to formulate a plan to avoid or minimise them. 

Just as many Groups are unaware of the potential for accidents in and around the Groups’ Headquarters, an equally large number are oblivious to the need to protect themselves against crime. Nationally, we have seen unprecedented increases in both vandalism and arson attacks on buildings and equipment and this is costing dearly in terms of increased premiums and excesses. ‘Scheme’ insurance rates are very dependent on the overall loss/income ratio and will inevitably rise if the loss ratio increases repeatedly. On the other hand, if the loss ratio shows a steady decline in claims, premium rates may be lowered. 

Within Scouting, we are fortunate that we can, collectively, determine how much we pay for our insurance. We are not entirely at the mercy of some Insurance Company. However, with a loss ratio consistently topping 100% over a five year period, it is clear that we are no longer immune from the general increases in crime and we have paid little heed to our vulnerability. 

Good security costs money. Many Groups take the view that they pay more than enough for their insurance, without committing hard earned cash to improve locks, install alarms etc. Whilst this attitude may be understandable, it ignores the fact that even one major loss prevented can save us all increased premiums next year. Furthermore, improved security can produce immediate benefits. A lower starting premium rate and a discount might apply. These savings could pay for an alarm system over 3-4 years. 

At the end of the day, if an arsonist does strike, your insurance will hopefully meet the costs of a new building. What it will not do is replace all those artefacts and memorabilia collected over many years and which comprise the Group’s history, nor will it compensate you for the hard work and heartache needed to re-establish the Group. 

Where to start? Well the obvious thing to do is to examine carefully your existing security. Try to identify the weakest point. Areas such as: 

1. Small ventilators/windows left open. These can be especially vulnerable where they are ‘hidden’ at the back of buildings (toilet windows are especially prone).

1. Panic bar equipped fire escape doors. These can often be sprung simply by banging on the outside!

1. Inadequate ‘rim’ type locks.

1. Combustible materials stored against the outside of the building (i.e. pioneering poles, dead vegetation, pallets etc).

1. Large glazed windows.

Having identified the risk, get them raised at the next Scouters and Group Executive meetings. Draw up an action plan, dealing with the most vulnerable areas first and examine the options for protection (Unity Insurance Services would be happy to help). 

Some tasks might cost little or nothing and yet reap a large benefit. For example cutting back shrubs and bushes to reduce cover for would be thieves (or conversely, planting brambles and other thorny plants in strategic locations). Screwing up ‘unused’ windows (thieves do not like climbing through broken glass) or even sealing them off completely. 

Your building does not need to look like Fort Knox to be secure and yet you can do much to discourage the attention of the thief or arsonist. An alarm system will obviously entail major expenditure but will undoubtedly reduce risk. A simple audible only system may well produce a discount on your premium rates which will pay back the outlay over 4-5 years. It is an investment in the Group’s future. 
 
 
 

Abuse 

Abuse can occur in even the very best of Scout Groups, and can fall into a number of categories. It can be as simple as a Leader and a child not ‘getting on’ together (with the Leader being seen as unfriendly or even bullying). On the other hand, it could be quite complex, involving emotional attachments and even physical harm. 

An allegation of abuse can be very easy to make and difficult to defend in circumstances where Leaders place themselves in a vulnerable position. It is clearly unwise for an adult to be alone with a child but it can easily happen. A child, sent to the stores to collect something is away longer than anticipated and the Leader goes into the storeroom to look for him. A homesick child disappears at camp and is found by a Leader behind the ablutions crying. It is so easy to end up in a compromising position. 

All adults in Scouting should be familiar with the Association’s policy and with the yellow card scheme. Leaders can support each other by being aware of the danger signs and pitfalls and by reminding each other. If abuse is claimed or suspected, immediate action must be taken to protect the child. The appropriate authorities must be informed within the shortest possible time and no attempt made to conduct an internal investigation first. For help and advice, contact the Child Protection Officer at Gilwell Park.