Porchlight is a local charity which supports vulnerable and homeless people across Kent.
We are keen to work with Explorer, Scout and Cub troops to help raise awareness of homelessness and to raise vital funds in aid of our work. We have already successfully worked with a number of groups including the Sevenoaks Scouts who raised a whopping £2641 following a workshop we delivered to them last year and the Larkfield Explorers. Below is a statement from Chris Hardy from the Explorers and Scouts in Larkfield about the experience.
“Being a Scout and Explorer Scout leader in Larkfield I am always looking for inspirational ideas to supplement my current programme. So when I contacted “Porchlight”, the homeless charity here in Kent, I was delighted when they offered support in getting their message across in a way that was completely compatible with scouting.
Rachel from Porchlight gave up an evening to come to our scout hut and interact with the Explorer scouts with discussions, DVDs, leaflets and lots of great ideas on how they as a unit can interpret the homelessness message and run a series of activities for our scout troop. The Explorers went away and produced a programme that included drawing, making money boxes, collecting pennies to make mosaics, watching hard hitting DVDs, debating and interacting with the kids on flip charts. Over the following weeks this was rolled out to the scout troop with great success as we kept the individual subject matter aimed at either 10 to 11 year olds and 12 to 13 year olds.
We finished the term with an actual card board box sleep over in minus 2 degrees, charging everyone £5 for the “pleasure” !! Being scouts everyone jumped at this opportunity and we had a massive turn out.
Everyone learned something from this experience; whether it was the Explorers on how hard it is to engage young scouts or a simple message on dispelling the homeless stereo-type. We as leaders have realised the importance of helping develop our Explorers as young leaders with actual practical activities where they can run for themselves.”

Chris Hardy - Larkfield scouts / Defiant Explorers
I would be delighted with the opportunity to come and speak to your troop, no matter what their age range is, giving them the opportunity to learn about poverty and homelessness in their community, as well as working towards their Community Challenge Badge.
If you are interested or would just like a bit more information please do contact me on 01227 813199 or getinvolved@porchlight.org.uk
With best wishes,
Rachel
Rachel van Hoven - Community Fundraiser
www.porchlight.org.uk