We share your concerns for the health & safety of your child

Fifth Estate

On Friday night CBC’s Fifth Estate ran a story about cases of sexual abuse to youth in Scouting.  The story is investigating allegations that Scouts Canada has kept secret files that have not been made available to police.  Further information can be found on the following CBC website: 

Scouts Canada Written Response

Referenced during the Fifth Estate, was a written response from Scouts Canada to these accusations.  The full written statement can be found at:

Scouts Canada Policy

Since 1997 Scouts Canada has had a very strict written policy regarding the interaction between youth and adults.  This policy is called Duty of Care.  The full version can be found at:

Adult Volunteer Application Process

Every new adult volunteer applicant must be screened in person by two current adult volunteers.  At least one member of the screening team must have completed a Scouts Canada screening course the other adult is there to act as witness. Furthermore each applicant must provide personal references that must be investigated and documented.  The screening questions are available at:

Police Records Check/Vulnerable Sector Check

Finally, each adult volunteer is required to provide a Police Records Check that includes a Vulnerable Sector Check every three years.  More information is available at:

As more information becomes available I will do my best to make it available for your consideration.

Scouter Al Havill

1^st Bedford Scout Group