About BSO

Our Aims

British Scouting Overseas (BSO) is a part of the UK Scout Association with headquarters in Gilwell Park, London. BSO members have access to the same resources, support and programme as UK based scout groups.


BSO exists to support British families living overseas in the provision of a UK scouting programme to expatriate British children and to several British Overseas Territories.


We aim to ensure that all our members have the opportunity to feel and experience high quality UK scouting whilst providing support and advice to adult members no matter where they are in the world. BSO undertakes scouting activities in a safe and secure environment with flexibility to adapt to both local customs and guidelines set out within the Scout Association's Policy, Organisation and Rules.

Where we Operate

BSO is a UK Scout Area (similar to a UK Scout County) and is comprised of four Districts:

Our Members

BSO operates 50 Scout Groups, 17 Explorer Units and 5 Network Units with an impressive 2700 young people supported by 600 adult volunteer leaders across 25 countries around the world.


Whilst most adult volunteer members are delivering programme activities around the world with our young people, many volunteers are also based in the UK offering support, training, mentoring, governance and resources in a variety of different roles from executive committee to marketing and event support to skills assessors.

 

BSO shares the same values and policies as the Scout Association. We are fully inclusive and open to all who share our fundamental values. BSO exists to actively engage and support young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.

Forming a New BSO Group

Whilst we have significant coverage with our groups, we are always looking to grow to cover more areas and benefit more young people.


If you are interested in forming a new BSO group please see our guidance here.

Our Volunteer Vacancies

See how your time and skills could help us to achieve our vision and aims with roles we are currently seeking to fill and volunteer today.

Volunteer Today
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