From 6 March, Scout Shops will introduce a new UK Scouting online badge ordering service to compliment the local Badge Secretary service, providing a wider choice to members. Scout Shops will introduce a verification process to ensure that all customers are genuine. Existing online Badge Secretaries do not have access at a national level to Compass so are unable to validate membership details leaving the opportunity for non-members, especially collectors, to purchase restricted items.

It’s important to note that this additional service provides choice to members to complement the great service provided by local badge secretaries. It provides choice, especially to those who don’t have a local badge secretary or local scout shop. Ultimately, this will reduce the burden at District and Group levels from stockpiling badges, some of which may be discontinued meaning a reduction in local financial risk.

Online badge ordering will launch at shop.scouts.org.uk on Monday 6 March allowing members to order alongside their regular orders of uniforms and Scout souvenirs in one place at any time of the day.

Karen Almond

Head of Scout Shops

The Scout Association