Join Phoenix Independent Scouts Association Youth Organization Today

The safety and well-being of every young person is our highest priority. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safeguarding through clear policies, robust procedures, and ongoing support for all our groups.

Each affiliated group is responsible for putting appropriate safeguarding and first aid measures in place, but you won’t be doing it alone. Phoenix provides comprehensive guidance to ensure your group understands what’s required, why it matters, and how to apply it effectively. Our support helps leaders create a safe, supportive environment where young people can thrive.

To give parents peace of mind, we ensure that all adult volunteers follow best practice in child protection, undergo relevant vetting (including enhanced DBS checks), and are familiar with Phoenix’s

Code of Conduct and Safeguarding Framework. We promote a culture where concerns can be raised safely, and where everyone understands their responsibilities in keeping children safe.

In addition to safeguarding, Phoenix helps groups set up and run smoothly. We offer practical support with writing safeguarding policies, completing risk assessments, registering as a charity, and meeting governance requirements. Because we’ve already been through this process ourselves, we’re able to take much of the admin burden off your shoulders — allowing group leaders to focus on what matters most: delivering an engaging, adventurous, and safe program for young people.

Phoenix places no requirement on how you structure your programme or awards — that’s entirely your choice. Some groups choose not to use badges at all, while others run fully developed schemes with clear progression and themed activities.
 

Many Phoenix groups have created their own bespoke badge and award structures tailored to their members, programme style, or local environment. A common approach among Phoenix groups is to use a tiered curriculum based on bronze, silver and gold levels. These levels often follow a developmental structure, encouraging young people to build skills progressively across key themes such as outdoor adventure, service, leadership, teamwork, and personal growth.
 

This curriculum is frequently inspired by the traditional Scout program from before 1966, drawing on its emphasis on practical outdoor skills, responsibility, and community contribution. Groups can adapt the old programme to modern contexts while maintaining its spirit and core values.

As part of Phoenix, you’re welcome to:
- Use an existing badge system developed by other Phoenix groups;
- Adapt parts of an existing structure to suit your group’s focus;
- Create your own from scratch to reflect your group’s values and interests;
- Or simply draw inspiration from other systems without formally adopting them.
 

There’s no pressure to fit a set model — Phoenix supports your creativity and encourages programme development that suits your young people best.

Your group will be welcome to attend Phoenix events including national camps, leader days, and regional gatherings. You’re also free to host your own events and invite other groups to join you.
 

Phoenix is also a member of the World Federation of Independent Scouts (WFIS), which provides exciting opportunities for international friendships, camps, exchanges, and global learning. Groups may be able to participate in WFIS international jamborees, cultural exchanges, and joint projects with Scouts from around the world.

In addition to camps and meetups, Phoenix is currently exploring the best options to offer its members access to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme. This will provide young people with valuable opportunities to challenge themselves, support their communities, and develop essential life skills such as leadership, teamwork, resilience, navigation, and commitment - all within the spirit of traditional Scouting.
 

Whether through local adventures or international experiences, Phoenix supports young people to grow in confidence, skill, and character.

Phoenix gives you the freedom to shape your group in a way that works best for your local community — and part of that flexibility includes the option to register as your own independent charity.

Operating as a registered charity brings significant benefits. It opens the door to a wider range of grant funding, community sponsorships, and donation opportunities, all of which can strengthen your group’s financial sustainability and long-term growth. It also provides a clear and transparent structure for managing finances, governance, and accountability — something that can be especially reassuring for parents and supporters.

If this sounds daunting, don’t worry — we’re here to guide you through the process. Phoenix has already helped multiple groups set up their charity status, and we’re happy to share templates, advice, and practical support to make it as smooth and straightforward as possible. From writing a constitution to registering with the Charity Commission, we’ve done the legwork, so you don’t have to start from scratch.

This structure allows groups to have real control over their future, while still benefiting from the wider Phoenix network. It’s about empowering local leaders and creating sustainable, community-rooted Scouting — with the backing of an experienced, supportive organisation.

Ensuring that your group is properly insured is a vital part of running safe and responsible Scouting activities. All Phoenix-affiliated groups are required to have appropriate insurance in place — typically including public liability cover, personal accident insurance, and activity-specific protection where needed.

We understand that navigating insurance can be confusing, especially when starting a new group. That’s why Phoenix offers clear, practical advice on what’s expected what’s typical, and how to make sure you’re covered. We can signpost you to insurers commonly used by other Phoenix groups and explain the types of cover you’ll need depending on the activities you run.

For leaders, this means peace of mind that you’re protected when running your program. And for parents, it provides confidence that every Phoenix group takes its legal and safety responsibilities seriously — ensuring that young people are participating in activities backed by the right safeguards.

We’re here to make sure you feel supported, informed, and secure every step of the way.