Scouts for Young People
Scouts is where young people make new friends, have amazing adventures, and learn new skills.
What do Scouts do?
Scouts are doers, dreamers, and adventurers.
In Portsmouth, Scouts dive into the outdoors and beyond by camping under starlit skies, hiking scenic trails, swimming, abseiling down cliffs, cycling along the coast, paddling in canoes, and setting sail on the open water. But that's just the beginning. Each week, we gather with friends to enjoy games, solve challenges, spark creativity, and build teamwork. It’s all about having fun while learning and growing together.
Across Portsmouth, we inspire and support over 1,300 young people aged 4 to 25, equipping them with skills for life. From acing school assignments and college applications to nailing job interviews, public speaking, and tackling personal goals, Scouts are prepared to take on the world with confidence and resilience.
We’re proud to be a place where everyone is welcome. No matter a young person’s gender, race, background, or physical ability, there’s a Scout adventure waiting for them. Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that every young person can discover their unique talents and passions.
Ready to find "their thing"? Whether it’s abseiling, coding, theater, or something completely unexpected, there’s a world of possibilities in Scouts. Register now and let the adventure begin!
The Scout Promise*
On my honour, I promise that I will do my best
to uphold our Scout values, to do my duty to The King,
to help other people
and to keep the Scout Law.
* one of several versions that help ensure everyone can feel comfortable with their personal promise
Scouts is open to people of all faiths and of none. Leaders will help you and your child choose which variation of our Promise is right for you: so that everyone’s included and can say a set of words that means something to them.
Information for parents & young people
What to wear
Wearing a uniform is both comfortable and practical. It ensures everyone feels included and fosters a sense of belonging within the group. Our uniform includes a sweatshirt or shirt paired with a colorful scarf, known as a ‘necker,’ which represents your Group. You can also personalize your look with optional accessories like polo shirts, caps, hoodies, trousers, or shorts.
Applies to Sq, B, C, S, Ex.Scout Network doesn't have a uniform.
Buying uniform
You can purchase uniform from any trusted retailer, either online or in-store. Portsmouth also has its own Scout Shop located at Hilsea HQ, open on Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 12 PM during term time. If you’re unsure where to begin, your leaders can guide you on what to buy, where to find it, and when it’s needed. Pre-loved uniforms are occasionally available, and in some cases, grants are offered to help cover the cost. Speak to a local team lead for more details.
What is costs
Each Group and Unit charges an annual membership fee to help cover the costs of running Scouting activities. Your Group or Unit tell you the amount and payment options. Additional costs may apply for special activities, camps, or events. As a not-for-profit organization, Scouts aims to be accessible to everyone. If you need assistance with membership fees, please speak with your local team leads confidentially - they’re here to help.
Applies to Sq, B, C, S, Ex.Membership of Scout Network is free.
Scouting for those with additional needs
Portsmouth Scouts is about actively involving everyone and we will make reasonable adjustments to make that possible. We pride ourselves on our inclusivity and do our best to make sure all our members can take part. There’s a lot of flexibility within the Scouts programme to meet individual needs, whether that be a disability, neurodiversity, or an educational, mental health or medical need.
What do I need to do? Contact your preferred Portsmouth group as soon as possible. A local leader will arrange a chat with you to find out more about your child and make sure we understand your child’s needs and how we can work with you to implement adjustments to make sure your child will get the most out of Scouts.
Interested in your child taking part in Scouting?
Share your contact details and a few bits of information about your preferred Group and we'll be in touch. Just so you know, we don't always have capacity for new members. It may not be possible to offer a place quickly OR with the Group you prefer.