How do you adapt your risk management strategies to different contexts and environments in Scouting?

1 Assess the context

Before you embark on any activity, you need to assess the context and identify the potential risks and hazards. This includes considering the location, the weather, the terrain, the equipment, the participants, the objectives, and the emergency plans. You can use tools such as the Plan-Do-Review cycle, the SWOT analysis, or the Risk Matrix to help you evaluate the context and prioritize the risks.

2 Choose the appropriate activity

Once you have assessed the context, you need to choose an activity that matches the abilities, interests, and goals of your group. You also need to ensure that the activity complies with the Scout policies, rules, and guidelines, as well as any relevant laws and regulations. You can consult the Scouts Australia Adventure Activity Standards, the Scouts Australia Program Handbook, or your local Scout branch for more information and guidance.

3 Prepare and train your group

After you have chosen an activity, you need to prepare and train your group for the adventure. This means providing them with clear and accurate information, instructions, and expectations, as well as equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes. You can use methods such as briefings, demonstrations, rehearsals, simulations, or peer mentoring to help your group learn and practice the required competencies.

4 Monitor and adjust your strategy

During the activity, you need to monitor and adjust your strategy according to the changing conditions and circumstances. This means being alert, flexible, and responsive to any signs of risk or opportunity, as well as communicating and collaborating with your group and other stakeholders. You can use tools such as checklists, feedback, debriefs, or contingency plans to help you manage and mitigate the risks.

5 Review and learn from your experience

After the activity, you need to review and learn from your experience and outcomes. This means reflecting on what went well and what could be improved, as well as sharing and applying your learnings to future activities. You can use methods such as surveys, evaluations, reports, or action plans to help you capture and document your learnings.

6 Seek and use support

Throughout the process, you need to seek and use support from various sources and resources. This means consulting and involving your fellow Scout leaders, your participants, your parents, your community, or your experts. You can also use online platforms, publications, courses, or events to access and exchange information, advice, or best practices. By seeking and using support, you can enhance your risk management skills and confidence.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?