Uniform Update: Wearable Technology (April Fools 2019)
Author: Richard Harvey
Published: April 1, 2019
As you will have seen in the last membership e-mail a review of our uniform is currently underway (the last review being 18 years ago). This is expected to be a long and considered process – and no decision has been made to change at this stage, and there are no immediate changes to uniform.
We are excited to be part of developing options for wearable technology being incorporated into uniform. We are looking for ten groups/sections in Lincolnshire to sign up if they are interested in taking part in live-trials (this will be on a first come first served basis). If your group/section is interested, please contact programme@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk with your preferred trial option (where possible we will try and facilitate your preferred option but it may not be possible in all cases).
Where smart technology is required to support the trials, this will also be provided for the trial duration.
Option 1 – Digital Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief
Option 2 – Built-in Smart Device Charging
With a greater reliance on smart devices we want to ensure they are available to use 24/7. Charge will be generated by solar panels on garments and movement via an in-shoe generator.
We successfully trialled a prototype during the recent Lincoln Monopoly Run by one of the Adult teams. This allowed their smart phone to stay charged all day.
Option 3 – Waterproof Coating
Option 4 – Colour Changing Shirts
Technology allows materials to change colours based on temperature. Something that is easy to overlook on Scouting activities are the effects of heat (both hot and cold). Currently being developed are shirts that turn red when the body temperature is too high and blue when too cold to aid early identification of heat related issues.
There are currently a few teething problems with an advance feature. It is hoped that the shirts will also change to vibrant pink indicating ‘needs feeding’. The teething problems have resulted in Explorer Scouts shirts constantly becoming vibrant pink!
Option 5 – Self Cleaning and Ironing
This is one for the parents and carers (volunteers may also benefit). Through our programme we are looking to develop #SkillsForLife so it will become compulsory for all members (in all sections) to learn to wash and iron before becoming a full member (don’t worry, full support using an iron and washing machine will be given and there will be no maximum timescale on completing this!). It is hoped that this option will be adopted to make the entire Scout Uniform self-cleaning and ironing for parents/carers).
We are excited to be part of developing options for wearable technology being incorporated into uniform. We are looking for ten groups/sections in Lincolnshire to sign up if they are interested in taking part in live-trials (this will be on a first come first served basis). If your group/section is interested, please contact programme@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk with your preferred trial option (where possible we will try and facilitate your preferred option but it may not be possible in all cases).
What’s in it for sections/groups?
Each group/section will be provided with a full set of trial uniform for each member across the next 12 months and play a key role in supporting the development of our next generation uniform.Where smart technology is required to support the trials, this will also be provided for the trial duration.
Option 1 – Digital Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief
Many members both young and old like to collect all the different styles of Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief and we want to bring this in-line with the latest technology trend and are looking to launch a digital version. This will feature an advanced material and LED technology allowing the wearer to collect a style via the ‘MyNecker’ app and upload to their Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief.
With a greater reliance on smart devices we want to ensure they are available to use 24/7. Charge will be generated by solar panels on garments and movement via an in-shoe generator.
We successfully trialled a prototype during the recent Lincoln Monopoly Run by one of the Adult teams. This allowed their smart phone to stay charged all day.
Option 3 – Waterproof Coating
As we know, sections are not allowed outside when it rains. To overcome this barrier to Scouting we are looking at a special coating for all uniform items to repel water, meaning we can once again put the out into Scout!
Technology allows materials to change colours based on temperature. Something that is easy to overlook on Scouting activities are the effects of heat (both hot and cold). Currently being developed are shirts that turn red when the body temperature is too high and blue when too cold to aid early identification of heat related issues.
There are currently a few teething problems with an advance feature. It is hoped that the shirts will also change to vibrant pink indicating ‘needs feeding’. The teething problems have resulted in Explorer Scouts shirts constantly becoming vibrant pink!
Option 5 – Self Cleaning and Ironing
This is one for the parents and carers (volunteers may also benefit). Through our programme we are looking to develop #SkillsForLife so it will become compulsory for all members (in all sections) to learn to wash and iron before becoming a full member (don’t worry, full support using an iron and washing machine will be given and there will be no maximum timescale on completing this!). It is hoped that this option will be adopted to make the entire Scout Uniform self-cleaning and ironing for parents/carers).
Module 10 First Response An opportunity to complete your Module 10- First Aid. During the day, you will complete your First Aid training, meaning you'll have all the skills and knowledge to manage an incident and cover basic First Aid. This is a county-run event, but taking place locally, so if you need to complete your first response training soon, now is the ideal opportunity! There are two courses, and they will take place at: 1) Grantham - May 10 Scout Hq, Earlesfield Lane, Lincs, NG31 7NT 0900-1600 Link to Book https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1320058754269?aff=oddtdtcreator 2) Boston - June 15 8th Boston (Wyberton): Tytton Lane East, Wyberton, PE21 7HP 0900-1600 Link to Book https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1320060278829?aff=oddtdtcreator Further dates will be published in due course. Bring a packed lunch Notepad and pen Tea and Coffee provided
Bookings are now open The county over 18s only camp, training and social event is back from 13th - 14th September 2025 at Sudbrooke Park Campsite, Lincoln. The event is running from Saturday 13 September (with activities starting 10am) to Sunday 14 September (Lunchtime) and also the option to just come for the day on the Saturday. Full information and details will be shared with all participants before the event. The cost of the event is £7 for member within Lincolnshire Scouts and £10 for any other member of the Scout Association. All scouters, including Trustee Board members and Helpers are welcome. Cost includes badge, travel mug, access to the event and all activities and tea/coffee/squash facilities throughout the event. Booking Link = https://forms.office.com/e/MgCvcssb19
Welcome to the latest edition of the Lincs County Bulletin. This is issued on the first Friday of each month. The bulletin will be sent to all adults registered on My Membership and distributed widely. To submit material for the bulletin please email howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk . Download as a PDF View historic Bulletins In this issue: From the County Lead Volunteer New District Lead Volunteer - South Holland Neurodiversity and Special Education Needs (SEN) support Jamboree and International Save the Date UK Youth Forum Message from the Chief Scout – Awards Earn Extra Money This Summer: Become a Site Lead for a High Ropes Adventure Park!
Bookings open at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bob-beavers-on-boats-2025-tickets-1266630418679?aff=oddtdtcreator
Congratulations to our Good Service Award Recipients
Thursday 8 May is VE Day 80 (Victory in Europe Day). This marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe with the surrender of Nazi Germany to the Allies in May 1945. The day is an opportunity to remember the 450,000 from the UK who lost their lives in the war (including 70,000 civilians) as well as the millions more across Europe and around the world. The event will be marked by commemorative events across the UK. Scouts are invited to light beacons and Lamp Lights of Peace at 9.30pm on Thursday 8 May. If you’re planning to be part of the VE Day Commemoration, you can register your event nationally. You event will be added to the official calendar and a certificate will be issued. Please also let the County Communications tea m know, provide a photo or two plus brief details of the event. The Royal British Legion is also organising events to mark this anniversary, involving veterans from the UK, Commonwealth and beyond. Do one thing: Look out for the VE Day 80 – Scouts for Peace Occasional Badge that can be worn on uniform from May to October 2025. More details on this to follow in the membership email. National VE Day Celebrations – Thursday 08 May 2025 Scouts have been invited to take part in the national VE Day Celebrations, part of which is the special 80th Anniversary concert on the evening of Thursday 08 May 2025. This will take place at the Horse Guards Parade Ground, London. Arrival by 6.30pm and finishing by 10pm. It will be televised on BBC One, but we don’t yet have further details about what will be involved for us. Lincolnshire Scouts has been allocated 10 places for this event (2 adult and 8 young people). Some 10,000 members of the public are expected to attend and we will be part of a wider contingent of 500 Scouts from around the UK and British Scouting Overseas. It promises to be a very special evening, part of a moment in history. Lincolnshire adult volunteers wanting to take part – please respond before Tuesday 25 March 2025 Initially, Howard Nelson -County Lead Volunteer, is looking for two adult volunteers from across the County to lead our contingent of 8 young people of Scout and Explorer Scout age. At this stage, he is inviting expressions of interest from adult volunteers only, to be received by Tuesday 25 March 2025. Candidates will: lead and take responsibility for our contingent, travelling into London, whilst at the event and for the return journey. have section Team Leader or Team Member experience be working with the Scout or Explorer age range (although preferred this is not essential as long as you have experience in either of these sections) If you would to take part, then please let Howard Nelson know by Sunday 23 March and provide the following information: Name Membership number Current role, section, Group / Unit A paragraph about yourself and why you would like to take up this opportunity. Young People wanting to take part – please respond before Friday 04 April 2025 With 8 May being just 8 weeks away, Howard is also seeking candidates from young people wanting to take part. Section Team Leaders in Scouts and Explorers, please talk to your young people about this opportunity at your meetings next week and let Howard know your candidates, by providing the name of the young person(s) initially. If there are too many candidates then it is likely the places will be decided on the basis of ease of transport arrangements or potentially a ballot. The deadline for submission of names is before Friday 04 April 2025. Interested or would like more information? Please reply / get in touch with Howard at howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk.
Welcome to the latest edition of the Lincs County Bulletin. This is issued on the first Friday of each month. The bulletin will be sent to all adults registered on My Membership and distributed widely. To submit material for the bulletin please email howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk . Download as a PDF View historic Bulletins In this issue: From the County Lead Volunteer Beavers on Boats - bookings open 1/4/25 at 10am Post 18 Options Session Weekend on the Water Youth Shapers event January 2025 It's time to book on as a staff member at Poacher 2026! NorJam Activity Staff Opportunities Uniform days at external attractions LincsFest - Save the date New membership system
First response dates for March and April 2025 17 th March 7pm-9pm – online - Consolidation session for those that have completed the Hampshire e-learning module. Please send your e-learning certificate to Lucy or Michelle prior to the course. 26 th March 7pm-8pm – online – Top up session for those Leaders that have completed an external first aid course that does not include the Scout specific extras on the syllabus. 7 th April 7pm-9pm - online - Consolidation session for those that have completed the Hampshire e-learning module. Please send your e-learning certificate to Lucy or Michelle prior to the course. Bookings at https://forms.office.com/e/Xkvgv51NMQ
