PARALYMPIC champion and Scout Ambassador Ellie Simmonds is spearheading a new campaign in Warrington to encourage volunteers to help support the scouting movement.
She says volunteering is not only good for scouting but also for the individuals involved and the local community.
The campaign, #GoodForTwo, will launch on Tuesday, February 22.
Ellie said: “Scouts are at the heart of the community here in Warrington, helping young people step up and gain skills for life.
“But this is only possible when we have enough volunteers to support them. Now, what I’ve found is that volunteering is good for you. It’s good for your skills and CV, your wellbeing and your local community too.
“The research backs this up. Over three quarters of volunteers (77 per cent) tell us they found volunteering improved their mental health and wellbeing, while two thirds say it makes them feel less isolated. And we all need that in these dark winter months.
“Starting on February 22 we’re starting a new campaign in Warrington called #GoodForTwo. This is all about sharing the fun and friendship of Scouts with a friend. Volunteers and young people in Scouts right across Warrington will be asking a mate to come along and try it for themselves.
“So if someone asks you to come along – don’t be shy. It’s a chance to make new friends, learn new skills and most importantly, have some fun. And that’s a promise”
Swimmer Ellie, OBE, came to national attention when she competed in the 2008 Summer Paralympics in Beijing, winning two gold medals for Great Britain, despite being the youngest member of the team, at the age of 13. In 2012, she was again selected for the Great Britain squad, this time swimming at a home games in London. She won another two golds, including setting a World Record in the 400m freestyle, and a further gold medal at the Rio Paralympics in 2016, this time setting a world record for the 200m medley.
