Following the changes to POR relating to Alcohol and Scouting:
Guidance relating to this subject was provided in November 2006 in edition 1 of Factsheeet 185092 which amongst the general Guidance and Good Practice stated that "When responsible for young people, adults should not drink alcohol."
At that time there was no direct reference to this subject included in POR.
In the January 2010 edition of POR the following was included:
Rule 2.4d
Adults must not consume alcohol when they are directly responsible for young people on a Scouting activity and must not permit young people (aged under 18 years) to consume alcohol on Scouting activities. The Association issues further advice on Alcohol and Scouting, which is available from the Information Centre.
Therefore it can be seen that there is a subtle change in the wording from 'should not' to 'must not'
and from 'responsible' to 'directly responsible'
In February 2010 an updated Factsheet 185092 (edition2) was published to reflect these changes and a copy is attached for your perusal.
It clearly gives appropriate Guidance, Good Practice and Action Point advice which must all be considered at all times during any Scouting activity.
This is perhaps, most difficult to manage during Nights Away events, and particularly at Family Camps?!
At the end of the day the welfare and Safeguarding of the young people entrusted to our care is paramount.
Best wishes.
Lynda Lewcock
County Training Manager