Why update the Code of Conduct?
The Scouts Canada Code of Conduct is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current in a changing youth safeguarding environment. Regular reviews include obtaining input from Scouters, other National Scouting Organizations, like-minded youth-serving organizations and professional subject matter experts like Respect in Sport and the Canadian Centre for Child Protection.
When do these changes take effect?
They take effect immediately for the 2025 Registration cycle, beginning in Spring 2024. The changes are reflected in the Code of Conduct for Spring Registration to simplify the process.
As part of this year's review, we have included a point to reinforce that volunteers must be aware of and follow Scouts Canada's Volunteer Screening requirements and that volunteers are obliged to report any youth-to-youth sexually harmful or inappropriate behaviour. The Code of Conduct now includes the following provisions:
I WILL:
Know and follow Scouts Canada’s youth protection policies including: the Two-Scouter Rule, mandatory reporting procedures, Scouter-to-Youth ratios, volunteer screening requirements and appropriate sleeping and washing requirements.
And:
Immediately report any concern for the welfare of youth or allegations of abuse to the police or social services in my Province and to Scouts Canada. This includes any youth-to-youth sexually harmful or inappropriate behaviour.
The updated Code of Conduct can be reviewed in the Code of Conduct Standard.
Still need help? Please feel free to contact the Scouts Canada Help Centre:
