The Scout Association is open to all young people and adults regardless of their sexuality or gender identity.  We have a clear Equal Opportunities Policy and attend Pride events to demonstrate our commitment to inclusion.  We openly welcome LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) Members, have volunteers specialising in diversity (including our national team of Specialist Advisers) and even a national unit supporting LGBT adults in Scouting (FLAGS).

Portsmouth Scouts are therefore proud to be part of the City’s celebrations, and welcome Members from both County and National Scouting to join them.  This is the first time Portsmouth has held Pride for some 13 years!  We’ll not only be taking part in the parade, but will also be found shouting for Scouting with a recruitment trailer.  It’s a great opportunity to open up the fun, challenge and everyday adventure of the Movement to even more young people and adult volunteers.

Our part in the event is open to Explorer Scouts (aged 14-18), Network Scouts (18-25) and Leaders (18+).  Uniform is not required, but we ask that you wear iScout clothing (http://shop.scouts.org.uk/c-41-clothing.aspx) and your neckerchief.  For those under 18, please complete and bring along a permission form (available from www.portsmouthscouts.org.uk).  And no, you don’t have to be LGBT to partake!