The Scout Association
Why we’re working together
While young people are one of the demographics most at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, they’re also one of the groups least aware of the dangers of CO.
Every week, The Scouts help almost half a million young people develop skills for life, with nights away and camping forming an integral part of scouting.
We’ve proudly led a joint-GDN partnership with The Scouts since 2021, helping protect hundreds of thousands of young people nationally from CO harm.
With 31% of UK children living in poverty according to the Child Poverty Action Group, we identified an opportunity to expand the scope of our original programme to include energy efficiency and fuel poverty awareness activities.
Young people, particularly those between the ages of 5 and 11, share learning with their families. By engaging with Scouts, we’re also educating other at-risk and hard-to-reach groups on CO safety and energy efficiency.
In April 2026, we launched a new joint-GDN carbon monoxide and energy efficiency awareness programme with The Scouts. We’re delighted to continue leading the programme, which enables us to educate, engage and empower young people across England, Scotland and Wales to use energy safely and efficiently at home and outdoors.
What we’re achieving together
- Creating dedicated activities and badges for all the different Scouting age groups
- Raising young people’s awareness of carbon monoxide safety
- Educating young people on energy efficiency at home
- Empowering adult volunteers through CO safety and energy efficiency activities and resources
- Extending CO safety and energy efficiency awareness to Scouts’ families and communities
How to get involved
Activities for your Scouting group
If you’re involved in Scouting and would like more information about the CO safety and energy efficiency activities and resources available for your section, please visit The Scouts website.