What is the Active Support Unit?
Essentially, Active Support Units (ASUs) are groups of adults who wish in some way to provide 'active support' to local Scouting. ASUs can be made up of men and women of all ages (over 18), interests and backgrounds, whether or not they have been involved with Scouting or Guiding before. They can operate at local, national and international levels, but are most often connected to a District or County. In 2^nd Bracknell’s case the ASU is connected to our group.
All members of Scout Active Support Units are there because they wish to give some of their time to Scouting - this can be as much or as little as they like, in a wide variety of activities. Each ASU also has their own social and activity programme. The aim of the Scout Active Support Unit is to "Provide Active Support", with the emphasis being very much on practical support of the youth programme at all levels of the Association.

How does it work at 2nd Bracknell?
The Active Support Unit supports the Group Executive, and the Group itself, as set out in our service agreement, and is usually referred to as the Fellowship.
By giving our Explorer Scouts somewhere to go when they become 18 it means that we have a good mix of ages. The main aim is to have fun. Anyone can join - mums, dads, old friends, new friends, friends of friends as long as they are 18 and over.

Is there anything to pay?
To be a member of the Scout Association you must pay capitation - this is the fee that is paid to the District, County and Scout Headquarters.  The current capitation fee is just under £30, but this is offset against funds raised by the Unit over the year.

What do I wear?
In addition to a 2nd Bracknell red scarf we have polo shirts which cost £10 each.  Members are also entitled to wear full Scout uniform, with the appropriate Active Support badges..

What events are planned?
There are a few events coming up and they are listed in the main group diary. Hopefully, as membership increases, we can run different events i.e. family walk and picnic, car treasure hunt etc. All suggestions will be gratefully received and eventually we would then expect some events that have a cost element to be a slightly reduced rate for Fellowship members to encourage people to sign up.

Who is in charge?

A Scout Active Support Manager is appointed annually by the Group Scout Leader, and can be supported by one or more Coordinators.  These are currently:

• Manager - Alex Richards*

• Coordinator (Membership) - Allan Coles*

• Coordinator (Administration) - Maureen Coles*

* Getting in touch
You can contact the Unit Manger or Coordinator’s by using their 2nd Bracknell e-mail address in the format “firstname.lastname@2ndbracknell.co.uk” or just send it to "fellowship@2ndbracknell.co.uk” and we'll forward it to Alex, Allan and Maureen for you.