2007 is the centenary of the Scout Movement. 100 years ago in 1907, Scouting started with an experimental camp held on Brownsea Island in Dorset led by war veteran Lord Robert Baden-Powell. Prompted by his famous book “Scouting for Boys” published in 1908, Scout groups were set up throughout the country, and quickly expanded to other parts of the British Empire.

In 1920 the first World Scout Jamboree was held in 1920 at Olympia in London and was an inside exhibition of Scouting. The second, held four years later held in Copenhagen was the first international Scout camp which set the tradition of Scout Jamborees.

Today Scouting has twenty-five million members world-wide (not counting Guides) and is still growing. Approximately four million of those are from the United States, the largest single Scout Association. There are 155 countries with internationally recognised National Scout Organisations. There are more than 28 million Scouts, youth and adults, boys and girls in 216 countries and territories. More information on the history of Scouting can be found on Scoutbase UK.

This year, being the centenary of Scouting there are numerous events being held worldwide to celebrate the largest organisation for young people in the world. The largest event will be the 21st World Jamboree held in Chelmsford, Essex, UK. The World Scout Jamboree will be a gathering of Scouts from around the world for 12 days from 27 July to 8 August.

Please sign this petition to the UK Government to increase the awareness of the centenary of Scouting.