Scouting Ireland has launched its new Strategic Plan 2026–2029, Building Tomorrow’s Scouting Today, setting out a clear vision for the future of Scouting across the island of Ireland.
The strategy focuses on supporting the development, wellbeing and leadership potential of young people, while strengthening communities through youth-led programmes, volunteer support and active citizenship.
As one of the largest youth movements on the island of Ireland, Scouting Ireland supports over 28,000 young people through the work of more than 10,000 trained adult volunteers across over 420 Scout Groups nationwide.
The new Strategic Plan responds to many of the challenges facing young people today, including pressures on mental wellbeing, reduced social connection and the growing need for safe, positive spaces where young people can develop confidence, skills and a sense of belonging.
Over the last 12 months, Scouting Ireland has established 20 new Scout Groups across Ireland and plans to continue expanding into communities where demand exists, ensuring sustainable growth supported by quality programmes and volunteers.
Scouting Ireland has been at the heart of communities in Ireland for close to 120 years and the Strategic Plan 2026–2029 establishes clear building blocks for our future. Its successful implementation will ensure that by 2030 we are a stronger organisation which continues to deliver for our youth members, our volunteers and wider society by securing a vibrant future for Scouting in Ireland.
Aidan Magner, Chair of Scouting Ireland
The strategy is grounded in the Aim of Scouting Ireland: to encourage the social, physical, intellectual, character, emotional and spiritual development of young people so that they may achieve their full potential and, as responsible citizens, improve society.
Young people are placed at the centre of the strategy, with key priorities including:
- Expanding youth leadership opportunities,
- Strengthening safeguarding and wellbeing supports,
- Improving accessibility and inclusion,
- Ensuring volunteers are supported to deliver safe, engaging and impactful experiences.
This plan is about making sure Scouting continues to be a place where young people feel safe, supported and empowered. Our aim is simple: to help young people reach their full potential and contribute positively to Irish society, ensuring more families can benefit from the positive, life-shaping experience Scouting offers.
CEO of Scouting Ireland, Seán Sheehan
Earlier this year, Scouting Ireland became one of the first National Scout Organisations in the world to receive the Safe from Harm Assessment (SfH) from the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM), recognising the strength of its safeguarding systems and practices.
The official launch of the Strategic Plan took place at Larch Hill, Scouting Ireland’s National Centre in Tibradden, bringing together volunteers, youth members and organisational leadership to share the vision for the future of Scouting in Ireland.
