If you’re a Scout Leader in the UK, chances are you’ve uttered this phrase more than once:

“We just need more adults to help!”

You’re not alone. Leader shortages continue to be one of the biggest challenges facing Scout groups across the country. But the good news? With a little creativity and a shift in approach, you can find more adult volunteers to support your group—whether for a weekly role, occasional events, or behind-the-scenes help.

Here are some smart, practical strategies to help you recruit more adult volunteers in 2025.

1. Understand Why People Don’t Volunteer—Then Address It

People aren’t saying “no” because they don’t care. They’re saying “no” because:

  • They think it’s a big, weekly commitment
  • They feel unqualified
  • They’re worried it’ll be all-consuming

Your job? Reassure and reframe.

💬 “Even an hour a month makes a big difference.”
💬 “You don’t need to wear uniform or know how to tie knots!”

Break the stereotype of what a Scout volunteer looks like.

2. Make It Specific and Personal

Avoid vague requests like “We need help.” Instead, ask for clear, bite-sized commitments:

  • “Can you help with hot chocolate at the campfire this Friday?”
  • “Could you come along once a month and run a simple game?”

And go direct: don’t rely on mass emails. A personal ask—especially face-to-face—is far more effective. People often need to feel personally needed to say yes.

3. Promote the Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering isn’t just a favour—it’s something that benefits the adult too. Make sure you shout about it:

  • Meet new people and be part of a team
  • Learn new skills (teamwork, leadership, outdoor know-how)
  • Boost wellbeing and confidence
  • Make a real impact in your community

Include stories or quotes from current leaders showing how they’ve benefited. Real people inspire real action

4. Offer Taster Sessions or Trial Nights

Some people are nervous about commitment. Invite them in gently:

  • Host a “Bring-a-Friend” night for existing leaders
  • Run a Volunteer Open Evening or “Scout Leader for a Night” session
  • Let them shadow for a week or two before making any decisions

This removes the pressure and shows them just how welcoming and fun the group really is.

5. Get Visible in Your Community

Don’t just rely on your existing network. Go wider:

  • Post in local Facebook groups or Nextdoor
  • Create a short volunteer recruitment video and share it online
  • Put up flyers at the school gate, coffee shops, community boards
  • Ask local businesses if any staff are looking for community volunteering hours

6. Celebrate and Appreciate Your Current Volunteers

People are more likely to join something that looks fun and valued. So:

  • Publicly thank your leaders on social media
  • Share behind-the-scenes photos showing teamwork and laughter
  • Highlight how your group couldn’t run without its amazing volunteers

Volunteering should look rewarding—not like a chore.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Say What You Need

Be confident. You’re not asking for charity—you’re offering an opportunity to make a difference. Be proud of that.

And remember: every adult who joins doesn’t just help you…
They help every single young person in your group get the best experience possible.

Final Thought: Plant the Seed

Not everyone will say yes right away. But the more you share your need and celebrate the joy of volunteering, the more seeds you plant. And with time, those seeds grow.

So whether it’s a parent, a grandparent, a friend, or a total stranger—ask them. You never know who might say “yes.”