The 31st Ernesettle Squirrels have achieved a remarkable milestone by earning their Together for Childhood Healthy Relationships badge, a testament to their commitment to fostering positive relationships. This special event was marked by the presentation of the first Healthy Relationships badge and the arrival of a beloved new member, Build-a-Bear Ernie (named after Ernesettle), who will play an essential role in their journey. The event also saw Squirrels playing themed games around the badge criteria and enjoyed a party with their family and friends.
The Healthy Relationships badge programme was developed through a collaboration between Together for Childhood, the NSPCC, and the Scouts, embodying the well known NSPCC ethos and positive relationship practices. This initiative brought together the dedicated team at 31st Ernesettle Scout Group, led by Lead Volunteer Trevor Richards, the Squirrels Leadership Team, and the District Team, including former District Commissioner John Davies, Deputy District Commissioner Paul Roberts, and Assistant District Commissioner for Squirrels, Danielle Wilson.
Key Highlights:
- Planning and Collaboration: The project was meticulously planned with the Ernesettle leaders, ensuring that parents and carers were involved and consenting. The badge’s curriculum will evolve as the children grow, ensuring that all messages about healthy relationships remain developmentally appropriate and relevant to their learning at school.
- Role of Build-a-Bear Ernie: Ernie has been a significant asset in delivering crucial messages to children and supporting parents and carers in initiating important conversations. He has previously been used in therapy sessions and is now eager to join the scouts to earn his Together for Childhood Healthy Relationships badge. And now every Ernesettle Squirrel has their very own “Ernie”.
- Educational Objectives: The sessions aim to equip children with the knowledge and skills to build happier and safer relationships. The programme covers both online and offline interactions, encouraging children to seek help if they feel unsafe or worried.
The badge was pioneered with the 31st Ernesettle Squirrels and will next be rolled out to their Beavers. As the programme develops, it will extend to Cubs and Scouts, ensuring that all age groups benefit from this valuable initiative. The ultimate goal is to expand the badge across the district and, eventually, nationally.
The Together for Childhood initiative promotes positive relationships as a central ethos, drawing on concepts such as the NSPCC Pantosaurus messaging. This approach emphasises the importance of keeping ourselves safe and treating others with respect and kindness.
Ernie has been instrumental in distributing valuable resources, such as leaflets about ChildLine, the Helpline for adults with concerns about a child, and PANTS information. His contributions have been invaluable, and we are thrilled to welcome him as our very own Scouting Build-a-Bear Healthy Relationships Ambassador.
This initiative underscores our commitment to ensuring that every child in the 31st Ernesettle group has the tools and support they need to thrive. We are incredibly proud of our Squirrels for their hard work and dedication.
