Scout Association to consult on including atheists

04 Dec 2012 News

The Scout Association has launched a consultation on whether to welcome atheists as members.

The Scout Association has launched a consultation on whether to welcome atheists as members.

Scouts are to be asked whether an alternative version of the Scout Promise which includes the words “duty to god” should be developed for atheists.

Alternative versions of the words “duty to god” have existed for faith groups such as Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists but this is the first time the movement has consulted on a promise for potential members who are atheists.

Wayne Bulpitt UK, the Scout Association's chief commissioner, said: “We are a values-based movement and exploring faith and religion will remain a key element of the Scouting programme. That will not change. However, throughout our 105-year history, we have continued to evolve so that we remain relevant to communities across the UK.”

Over the last seven years Scout membership has grown from 444,936 (2005) to 525,364 (2012).