SCOUTS are at the heart of the community here in St Helens, helping young people step up and gain skills for life.

But this is only possible when we have enough volunteers to support them.

Now, what I’ve found is that volunteering is good for you.

It’s good for your skills and CV, your wellbeing and your local community too.

The research backs this up.

More than three quarters of volunteers (77 per cent) tell us they found volunteering improved their mental health and wellbeing, while two thirds say it makes them feel less isolated.

And we all need that in these dark winter months.

Starting on 22/2/22 we’re starting a new campaign in St Helens called #GoodForTwo.

This is all about sharing the fun and friendship of Scouts with a friend.

Volunteers and young people in Scouts right across St Helens will be asking a mate to come along and try it for themselves.

So if someone asks you to come along – don’t be shy.

It’s a chance to make new friends, learn new skills and most importantly, have some fun. And that’s a promise.

Ellie Simmonds OBE

Paralympic Champion and Scout Ambassador