Should Scout Leaders Get Discounts for Their Children?

The question of whether Scout Groups should offer discounts or even waive fees for the children of Scout Leaders is a hot topic in the Scouting community. I’ve seen this debate pop up repeatedly on social media, and it always sparks strong opinions. Some Leaders believe they should receive a discount as a reward for volunteering, while others argue that all parents should contribute equally to the cost of running the group.

So, should Scout Leaders’ children get discounted or free membership fees? Let’s explore the financial, legal, and ethical considerations.

Why Most Scout Groups Don’t Offer Discounts

I recently came across a Facebook discussion on this topic, with over 200 comments, and the general consensus was that most Scout Groups simply cannot afford to offer discounts. Here’s why:

  • Financial Impact: Every young person in a Scout Group contributes to running costs—this includes venue hire, activity materials, badge costs, and insurance. If a group offers free places to leaders’ children, it could result in a significant financial loss.
  • Volunteer Choice: Being a Scout Leader is a voluntary role, and leaders know the costs involved. Just because you’re a volunteer doesn’t mean your child should receive a financial benefit that others don’t.
  • Fairness to Other Parents: If leaders receive discounts, it means that other parents are essentially subsidizing those children. Is that fair?

To put this into perspective, in my group, we have about six parent volunteers, many of whom have two children in Beavers, Cubs, or Scouts. If we waived their fees, that’s 12 subs lost per term, which at £40 per child per term would result in a £480 shortfall every term—a financial burden the group would struggle to cover.

Legal & Tax Implications

Beyond finances, there are also legal and tax implications that Scout Groups need to consider.

Charity Commission Rules

According to the UK Charity Commission, volunteers can only be reimbursed for legitimate out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., travel, uniforms, or materials used in their role). If a volunteer receives financial benefits, such as free or discounted membership for their child, it could be considered payment, making them an employee rather than a volunteer.

HMRC & Tax Considerations

The HMRC website also warns that offering financial incentives to volunteers could create tax complications. If a discount is seen as a form of income or payment, it could impact both the leader and the group financially.

Alternative Ways to Thank Scout Leaders

While financial discounts may not be practical (or legal), some Scout Groups choose to recognize their leaders in other ways.

Here are a few examples of non-financial perks some groups offer their volunteers:

✔️ Providing Uniforms – In my group, we purchase a leader’s first uniform shirt to help get them started.
✔️ Branded Clothing – Some groups give leaders free hoodies, polo shirts, or woggles as a token of appreciation.
✔️ Discounted Camp Fees – Some groups offer leaders reduced camp fees as a thank-you for giving up their time.
✔️ Personalized Woggles – I’ve started giving each of my Leaders a personalized woggle as a small but meaningful gesture.

These little perks don’t create legal or financial issues but still show appreciation for the time and effort leaders put in.

Should Leaders Get Discounts? My Thoughts

As a Scout Leader and Group Lead Volunteer, I personally pay full fees for my son, who attends a different Scout Group. I understand the costs involved in running a successful group, and I know that Scouting isn’t free. If my group gave Leader discounts, it would only shift the financial burden onto other parents.

That said, I also understand why some Leaders feel there should be some form of recognition for their hard work—which is why non-financial perks can be a good middle ground.

What Do You Think?

🔹 Does your group offer discounts to Leaders’ children?
🔹 Do you think it’s fair for Leaders to pay full fees?
🔹 How does your group recognize the hard work of its volunteers?

I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below and let’s keep the discussion going!

🚀 Want to hear more about leader-related Scouting debates? Check out my video: Should Scout Leaders Pay to Attend Camp?

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