South Shields Scout group launches drive to buy new minibus for adventures as members eye a return to normality

The 30th South Shields Scout group, based in Cleadon, provides activities and experiences for young people aged 6-14, teaching them valuable skills and providing a safe space to learn and meet new people.

The group hopes to buy a minibus so organisers can offer even better opportunities for the youngsters, without having to rely on expensive coaches.

Throughout the pandemic, the group has continued to meet online every week, which members say offers young people a vital sense of normality.

Activities have included virtual camping at home, den building and virtual murder mystery events.

Angela Ali, a volunteer in the group said: “A minibus would mean we could take the kids places and offer them more experiences.

"We’d love to go further away without the need of coaches, which can be very expensive.

“Groups like this are absolutely vital for young people. We’ve kept going throughout the pandemic offering online sessions and volunteers have been working tirelessly every week to give the young people something to do and keep a sense of normality.”

In normal times, the Scout groups meet weekly and takes part in all manner of activities together, including learning all manner of skills, and taking part in camps.

Vicky Gray, a parent who supports the group, has launched a Go Fund Me page with the hope of raising £20,000 to cover the minibus, insurance and other costs, and the group will be hoping to host fundraisers for the appeal when it is safe to do so.

The group usually meets at the All Saints Parish Hall in Cleadon Village, and members are eagerly awaiting a return to face-to-face sessions.

Angela added: “We really can’t wait to meet again face-to-face when it’s allowed, everyone has missed seeing each other so much and it’s always a good laugh.”

To support the 30th South Shields Scout group, visit the Go Fund Me page at www.gofundme.com/f/scouts-south-shields-30th-cleadon-all-saints?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

Support your Gazette and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.