Welfare and wellbeing policies

Policies

All adults, volunteers and group leaders at WINGS, are expected to follow the same responsibilities and standards they would at any Scout or Girlguiding residential event. 

Above all, they must adhere to the policies and guidance of The Scout Association and Girlguiding UK, including (but not limited to): 

  • Safeguarding and welfare 
  • First aid and health procedures 
  • Alcohol and substance use 
  • Code of conduct and behaviour expectations 
  • Smoking and vaping regulations 
  • Health and safety requirements 
  • Use of social media and communications 

Safeguarding and welfare

Safeguarding is the highest priority at WINGS. 

  • You must follow all safeguarding procedures and reporting requirements at all times 
  • Always apply two‑adult (two‑deep) leadership, no adult should be alone with a young person 
  • Any concerns about the welfare of a young person must be reported immediately to the WINGS Safeguarding Team 
  • Do not investigate concerns yourself, pass them on to the appropriate team 
  • Everyone on site MUST follow the WINGS Jamboree Code of Conduct and Safeguarding Policy.  

You play a critical role in ensuring that every young person is safe, supported and able to fully enjoy their WINGS experience.

First aid and health

  • Ensure appropriate first aid cover is in place for your group at all times 
  • Follow your organisation’s guidance on administering first aid and recording incidents 
  • Refer more serious injuries or concerns to ScoutMed (the WINGS Medical Team) 
  • Ensure any relevant medical information for your young people is up to date and accessible 

Alcohol and substance use

WINGS is a youth‑focused event, and leaders must model responsible behaviour. 

  • No alcohol consumption is permitted for anyone under 18 
  • Adults may only consume alcohol in designated areas, and only when not supervising young people 
  • WINGS operates a zero‑tolerance approach to illegal drugs 

Any breaches may result in individuals being removed from their role and potentially removed from site 

Smoking and vaping 

  • Smoking and vaping are only permitted in designated areas 
  • These areas must be away from young people and out of sight where possible 
  • Volunteers and leaders should ensure they follow organisational policies 

Behaviour and code of conduct

  • Volunteers and leaders are expected to model positive behaviour and respect at all times 
  • Everyone on site MUST follow the WINGS Jamboree code of conduct 
  • Promote an inclusive, welcoming and supportive environment for all participants 
  • Challenge inappropriate behaviour where necessary and escalate concerns appropriately 
  • Support the wider event by encouraging engagement, teamwork and respect between groups 

Social media use

  • Follow your organisation’s social media policies and guidelines 
  • Ensure any content shared is appropriate, respectful and does not breach safeguarding guidance 
  • Do not share sensitive information, personal data or images without appropriate permissions 
  • Direct any external media enquiries to the WINGS Media & Communications Team 

Health and safety

  • Follow all site rules, safety guidance and risk‑managed processes 
  • Ensure your group understands and follows activity instructions and supervision requirements 
  • Report any hazards, incidents or near misses to the WINGS team 
  • Take responsibility for the safe setup and management of your campsite 

Preventing the spread of illness

At an event where thousands of people are living and working closely together, infections can spread quickly. Everyone has a role to play in reducing this risk. 

Please: 

  • Wash hands with soap and water before preparing food 
  • Wash hands before eating and after using the toilet 
  • Use hand sanitiser where appropriate 

If your group is managing its own toilet facilities: 

  • Wear disposable gloves when emptying 
  • Use antibacterial spray and disposable cloths or wipes 
  • Keep cleaning equipment for toilets separate from kitchen equipment, clearly labelled or colour‑coded 

If anyone in your group is experiencing vomiting or diarrhoea: 

  • They must not prepare food 
  • Ensure good personal hygiene is maintained 
  • Monitor symptoms carefully 

If two or more people in your group show similar symptoms, please inform your subcamp team immediately. Our Safety and Medical Teams monitor illness across the site and will provide guidance and support to help prevent further spread. 

Working together 

Health and hygiene at WINGS is a shared effort. By taking responsibility for our own areas and respecting shared spaces, we help ensure the site remains clean, safe and welcoming for everyone. 

If you notice any issues, please speak to your subcamp team – they’re there to help