We're based at Donisthorpe Scout Centre but get out to Willesley Scout Campsite, Hicks Lodge, footpaths, fields and anywhere outdoors when we can.
New to 4th Ashby?
Welcome! This page brings together the key information parents and carers often need when their young person starts with 4th Ashby Scout Group.
For quick answers about costs, joining, what to bring, additional needs, programmes and contacting leaders, please also see our FAQ page.
Trying Scouts, Cubs, Beavers or Squirrels
Young people are welcome to come along and try Scouting before committing. We usually allow around 3–4 weeks of trial sessions before uniform is needed.
For the first few meetings, comfortable clothes and suitable footwear are fine. Please bring a drink if needed, especially for outdoor sessions or warmer evenings.
How we communicate
We use online systems such as Scoutworks or OSM to help manage membership, emails, events and activities.
Please make sure invitations are accepted promptly, as some emails will only go to parents or carers who have accepted the invite. This helps us avoid sending information to the wrong addresses and keeps young people’s details safe.
The best way to contact leaders is usually by replying to the email you have received. Please remember that all our leaders are volunteers with families, work and other commitments, so replies may take a little time.
Meeting places
Most regular section meetings take place at Donisthorpe Scout Centre, but Scouting is about getting outdoors and trying new things, so we also meet at places such as Willesley Scout Campsite, Hicks Lodge, local footpaths, fields and other activity venues.
Please always check the latest email or event details before setting off, as the meeting place can change from week to week.
Donisthorpe Scout Centre [Open in Google Maps]
Most of our sections are based at Donisthorpe Scout Centre on Church Street, Donisthorpe.
Postcode for sat nav: DE12 7PX
The Scout Centre is just after the crossroads, with parking to the rear.
Willesley Scout Campsite [Open in Google Maps]
Willesley is used regularly for outdoor activities, tent pitching, fire lighting, wide games and camp skills.
From Ashby, head away from the town centre towards Measham. Turn right towards Donisthorpe. Continue along the road until the crossroads, then turn left. Where the road narrows, turn left down the track to the campsite.
Please take care on the track as it is narrow and vehicles may be coming the other way. Drive slowly and watch for young people, leaders and other users of the campsite.
Newman’s Meadow / “The Field” [Open in Google Maps]
Leave Ashby along Smisby Road and go straight over the roundabout with the bypass.
Take the first right. The first gateway on the left may be open if the ground is dry enough to drive on. Otherwise, please drop off and turn around safely.
Helping things run smoothly
Scouting works best when young people arrive ready to take part, listen to instructions and respect others.
All of our leaders are volunteers. We are very grateful when parents and carers remind young people before meetings that good behaviour, kindness and listening carefully are important so everyone can enjoy the session safely.
There are also times when we may ask for parent help, particularly for outdoor sessions, camps, events or evenings where several leaders are unavailable. You do not need to be an expert — an extra pair of hands can make a big difference.
Uniform, badges and groupwear
Uniform is not needed straight away while young people are trying Scouting.
When they are ready, leaders will explain what is needed for their section. Pre-loved uniform, replacement badges and neckers may be available through the group shop.
Buying uniform
Scout uniform can be bought from several places, including:
- The Scout Store – official Scout uniform. Scout shirts are usually around £20. Delivery is normally charged unless you spend over the free delivery threshold.
- Leicestershire Scout Shop – based at the County Scout Centre in LE3, with delivery or collection options usually available.
- Amazon – Scout shirts are often available with free delivery, although prices may vary.
- Pupils Schoolwear – local uniform supplier with a shop based in Swadlincote.
- 4th Ashby swap shop – we have a small but growing supply of pre-loved uniform. Items can usually be bought for a small donation to group funds.
Please check current prices and delivery options before ordering, as these can change.
Badges for young people moving up
If your young person is moving up from Cubs, some badges transfer to their Scout shirt. These usually include:
- membership badge
- county badge
- district badge
- group badge
- any staged activity badges
- Previous section Top/Chief Scout’s Award, if completed
We will provide a new woggle and moving-on award where needed.
Badges for young people who are new to Scouting
If your young person is new to Scouting, we will provide their first set of badges and a group necker.
Replacement badges, woggles and neckers are charged at cost.
Policies and useful documents
We try to keep parent information simple and practical on this page. For formal group policies and documents, please see our Policies page.
This includes group policies and guidance covering how we run activities, events, camps and other aspects of 4th Ashby Scout Group.
Keeping young people safe
The safety of young people is our number one priority. All adult volunteers are vetted through the DBS process and follow Scouts’ safeguarding procedures.
Please tell us about any additional needs, medical information, allergies or worries that may help us support your young person well. We want every young person to feel welcome, safe and able to take part.
