Recently, Scouting America updated and clarified policies within Youth Protection and the Barriers to Abuse that address questions about sleeping accommodations with parents and the buddy system. These updates and clarifications can be found here under “Additional Resources.” This follows recent updates to the Age 18-20 Policy Updates made earlier this summer by Scouting America.
These updates and clarifications will have an effect on your lodge programs and section and national events, so it is important that all Arrowmen become familiar with these updates as you plan and execute events for your members.
Additionally, in August 2024, anonymous texting to the Scouts First 24-hour helpline became available. Scouts, parents, registered leaders, friends, etc. – can report concerns via text to phone number 844-SCOUTS1, using a protected and anonymous platform. The Scouts First 24-hour helpline remains active, as it has for many years now. Anyone can report a concern by calling 1-844-SCOUTS1 or by emailing @email.
Scouting America believes that having this anonymous texting resource provides another avenue to report abuse or risk to youth which will help Scouting be safer. Learn more about this texting option in Scouting Magazine.