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Resources: Woodcraft Tool Box

Definition of the Tool Box: a resource for sharing and signposting information related to how groups/districts are run

Purpose of the Tool Box: to help support both new and existing groups/districts

The Tool Box has been developed in consultation with members and has largely been written by members for members, and it  will continue to be developed by members. This tool box is not intended to be prescriptive or to tell you there is only one way to run your group/district. Instead it is a ‘tool box’ from which you can choose appropriate tools. Keep in mind there can be more than one type of tool for each job e.g. different versions of a volunteer role description for a group leader or district fundraiser etc.

However there are some elements to running a group that are legal or organisational requirements e.g. child protection, financial reporting etc. Anything that is a legal/organisational requirement will be highlighted as such. All other information is optional and it is up to you and your local needs to determine what suits you best.

For new groups the tool box will help you get going more quickly and easily than in the past. For established groups this will be an ongoing developing resource bank to help you grow, develop and take on new challenges.


Sections include:

 

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How do I get a CRB?

All volunteers who regularly attend a group (more than once a month), or participate in residential activities, are required to complete an Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure. The individual CRB forms are available by emailing info@woodcraft.org.uk.


Instructions on how to complete a CRB can be  downloaded here. Please see attachment below.

Justine’s story: starting a new Woodcraft group in the Midlands

Justine, Lucy and Jessica started Bournville Elfins after Jessica completed Forest Schools training and wanted to do something complementary. Justine says:

“Although we had never heard of Woodcraft Folk, we jumped at the chance! We all came from different areas and so sat down with a map and looked at where we could all get to by 5.45pm on a Wednesday and Bournville came out tops!

How much should each group member pay?

As a general rule of thumb, groups normally charge weekly subs of between £1 and £2.50 in order to cover the cost of running the group (rent and materials). The amount you charge should take in to account the situation of the kids and their families - most groups are prepared to help out those who are less well off, but most will still ask for people to pay as much of the weekly sub as they can.

How to find a good venue

Well firstly, what makes a good venue? It should be somewhere nearby to where you are recruiting members from, ideally with public transport links. Preferably it should be able to be reached without having to cross busy roads, walk down dark alleyways etc. It should be in a good state of repair (i.e. no dodgy wiring etc) and accessible to those in wheelchairs. A decent-sized hall makes playing games much easier and increases the scope of the activities you can run. You can access the 'Good Venue Checklist' here.

How much to pay for a group venue?

This depends largely on how many children attend or you are hoping will attend your group. Woodcraft groups pay for their rent out of the weekly subscriptions (subs) paid by the children so you need to make sure that the price reflects what you think you can afford. 

How to manage behaviour at group nights

Controlling a group is best practiced, but suggested tips would include:

How groups fit into the wider movement

Every Woodcraft Folk is a recognised branch of the UK charity. Most groups belong to a District, which operate on across a geographical area (possibly county, borough or city-wide) supporting a network of groups. Visit the online map to see where Woodcraft groups are.

Outline Role Descriptions for Volunteers

Role descriptions with a concise list of tasks for Woodcraft Folk Groups and Districts to function at what is currently considered best practice.

 

Do I need to be trained in First Aid?

No, it is not a requirement that all members are trained in First Aid. It is however advisable that some members are confident in first aid, especially when attending a camp off the beaten track.

Child protection for new groups

Woodcraft Folk have a Safeguarding Policy, which you should read and follow. You can read it here along with other useful documents relating to safeguarding: www.woodcraft.org.uk/safeguarding.