14 members of Berkshire Scouts proudly attended this year’s Reading Pride event, celebrating diversity and inclusion alongside the local community.
The group represented several sections of Scouting – from a Beaver, to Explorers, Network, and adult volunteers – showcasing that Scouting is for everyone, no matter their age, background, or identity. They were joined by Reading Central and Error404 Network who ran a stall in the event promoting Scouting and raising money for their unit.
“Being here today shows that Scouts are part of the whole community,” said one adult volunteer. “It’s about standing proud, showing our values, and making sure everyone knows they have a place in Scouting.”
An Explorer Scout who attended added: “I’m glad we can show people that Scouts is for everyone. Whoever you are, you’ll be accepted.”
By taking part in Reading Pride, Berkshire Scouts not only celebrated diversity but also reinforced the movement’s commitment to equality, respect, and inclusivity. The Scout Association is committed to building a more inclusive society and openly welcomes LGBTQ+ members. As one Network member summed up: “It’s great that we can be visible at events like this. The more people see Scouts, the more they’ll know we’re here for them.”
County Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Team Leader, Wren Wood said: “Across Berkshire, we’ve been working to share the message that Scouting is for all. Following feedback from the County, we run LGBTQ+-specific training annually, drawing on the resources from Scout HQ, as well as lived experiences of members. Reading Pride is the biggest event of its kind in Berkshire and we’re so pleased to be able to give young people an opportunity to take part.
“We have set up a dedicated inbox for parents/carers and leaders to get in touch with any questions relating to EDI” Wren explains. “This not only encompasses LGBTQ+ topics, but also neurodiversity, medical or other needs that both young people and adults may have”.
You can contact the EDI team at [email protected].