The Scout Association is an inclusive and values based Movement which supports its Members to engage with spirituality in an exciting and meaningful way. The Scout Association is an open Association and does not identify with one faith exclusively.
Membership is open to all those individuals who share our fundamental values, and are willing to make a commitment to them, expressed by the Promise and Law.
The Cub Scout Promise
There are a number of variations of the Cub Scout Promise to reflect the range of faiths, beliefs and attitudes, and nationalities, in the UK within Scouting.
For subjects of independent Commonwealth countries, foreign nationals and individuals who are stateless, the following wording can replace ‘duty to the Queen’
…to do my duty to the country in which I am now living.
Further information about the Promise in Scouting can be found here.
The Cub Scout Law
Cub Scouts always do their best
Think of others before themselves
And do a good turn every day.
The Cub Scout Motto
Be prepared
Why is the Promise important
The Promise is a simple way to help young people and adults keep the Fundamentals of Scouting in mind. The Promise is the commitment made by all Members as they join Scouting, promising to share the values of Scouting. It is therefore vital that every Member considers the Promise, and discusses its meaning before making the Promise and being invested into Scouting.
There are a number of variations of the Promise to reflect the range of faiths, beliefs and attitudes; and nationalities in the UK within Scouting. Each version is written to be appropriate to the broad level of understanding of each of the age groups within the Movement. We believe that this approach is inclusive. Celebrating and understanding difference, including difference in faiths and beliefs, is an important aspect of the educational and developmental side of Scouting.
Incorporating multiple versions at Promise renewals
It has been good practice for many years to invite Members to renew their Promise ‘in their own words’ and it is important that this is always incorporated into Promise events. The different versions of the Promise can be said together in unison.
Who makes the decision about which Promise to take?
The adult, or young person should be provided with all the Promise wording options and given time to consider their choice carefully.
Depending upon the age of the young person, discussions about the choice of Promise may include parents or carers. Ultimately, the chose of Promise is the individuals.
