Mobile phones and digital devices policy

This policy sets out how mobile phones and digital devices should be used by both young people and adult volunteers during Scouting activities. It aims to keep everyone safe, support positive behaviour, and encourage responsible digital citizenship, in line with The Scouts’ Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR) and the Yellow Card safeguarding code.

The safety and wellbeing of young people always comes first.

Mobile phones and smart watches can be useful tools, but they must not distract from activities, cause harm, or undermine safeguarding.
 

Adults must model safe, respectful and appropriate use of technology.
Young people should be supported to develop healthy, responsible digital habits.

Beavers and Cubs should not bring mobile phones unless specifically agreed with leaders for a particular reason.

Scouts and Young Leaders may bring a phone, but it must remain switched off or on silent and kept in a pocket or bag unless permission is given to use it.

The Group accepts no responsibility for loss, damage or theft of personal devices.

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When phones may be used

Young people may use their phones only when:

• they are required as an essential auxiliary aid (such as a hearing‑aid loop or an augmentative and alternative communication device) as set out in their care plan

• a leader has given permission for a specific purpose (such as navigation, taking photos for a task, research, emergency contact),

• they need to contact home at an agreed time,

• they are on an expedition where a phone is part of the safety equipment.

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When phones may not be used

Young people must not:

• take photos, videos or audio recordings of anyone without clear permission,

• use phones in tents, dormitories, toilets or changing areas,

• access or share inappropriate content,

• use phones in a way that disrupts activities or excludes others,

• post on social media during activities unless agreed by leaders.

Any misuse will be dealt with in line with the Group’s behaviour expectations and safeguarding procedures.

Adults must follow the Yellow Card at all times.

Phones should be used sensibly and discreetly, and never in a way that distracts from supervision or safety.

Personal phones must not be used to take photos or videos of young people unless explicitly authorised and in line with the Group’s photography and filming policy.

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Communication with young people

Adults must not communicate one-on-one with young people via personal phone numbers, messaging apps or social media.

All communication must take place through approved Group channels (such as OSM, a Group WhatsApp channel that includes at least one other adult, or other systems agreed by the Group Lead Volunteer). If a phone call with a young person is necessary, it must be made on speakerphone in the presence of another person.

Use during activities

Adults may openly use phones for legitimate Scouting purposes such as:

• contacting home or emergency services,

• navigation,

• coordinating leaders,

• monitoring attendance,

• documenting activities,

• accessing programme resources.

Personal use should be kept to a minimum and never interfere with supervision.

Phones must not be used in sleeping areas, tents, toilets or changing spaces.

Leaders should model appropriate boundaries and behaviour.

Young people

Leaders may collect phones at certain times (such as overnight) to reduce risk and support positive social interaction.

If phones are allowed, usage times and expectations will be clearly explained.
Young people should not post on social media during camp unless agreed with leaders.
 

Adults
Adults must maintain clear boundaries and avoid using phones in private or sensitive areas.

Any photos taken for Group use must follow the Group’s photography and filming policy and be stored securely.

Any concerns about inappropriate phone use, online behaviour, or digital safeguarding must be reported immediately to the Group Lead Volunteer or District Safeguarding Lead, following the Yellow Card.

Serious incidents may require escalation to The Scouts’ Safeguarding Team or statutory agencies.

24 April 2026