Individual Support Plans (ISP) and Reasonable Adjustments

We want every young person to take part fully, safely and confidently in everything we do.

To make that happen, we plan ahead and put reasonable adjustments in place where needed. This applies to both visible and non-visible disabilities, long-term health conditions, neurodivergence, mental health needs, and any additional support requirements.

Scouts has an anticipatory duty to make reasonable adjustments. That means we think ahead about barriers and how to reduce them, rather than waiting for a problem to arise. We will always work with parents and carers — and with the young person where appropriate — to agree what support is suitable and proportionate.

What are reasonable adjustments?

A reasonable adjustment is a practical change that helps a young person access Scouting on an equal basis with others.

Adjustments might include:

• Changes to how instructions are given

• Flexibility around routines or transitions

• Sensory considerations (noise, lighting, space)

• Support with anxiety or emotional regulation

• Adaptations to activities

• Extra supervision at key points

• Adjustments for camps and residential experiences

An adjustment is considered reasonable if it is practical, proportionate, affordable, and does not compromise the safety of others.

When is an Individual Support Plan (ISP) needed?

If your young person requires specific adjustments to take part, please complete an Individual Support Plan (ISP). An ISP helps us understand:

• Your young person’s strengths

• What works well for them

• What situations may be more challenging

• What practical steps will help them thrive

An ISP may be appropriate for needs relating to, for example:

• Sleeping arrangements (particularly for camps)

• Eating, food routines or dietary needs

• Anxiety, confidence or separation

• Medication or first aid considerations

• Mobility or access

• Sensory processing

• Communication needs

• Behavioural support

You may share relevant school or healthcare information if you wish. This is optional, but it can sometimes provide helpful context. Please only share information that is relevant and proportionate.

Our process

1. Download and complete the Individual Support Plan form for Young People or Adult Volunteers.

2. Send the completed form to your young person’s Section Team Leader (Beavers, Cubs, Scouts or Explorers).

3. The leadership team will review the information.

4. If needed, we’ll contact you to clarify details.

5. Together, we’ll agree what reasonable adjustments can be put in place and how they will be reviewed.

If we do not receive an ISP, we will assume that no additional adjustments are required.

Keeping medical and support information up to date

Accurate information allows us to plan safely, especially for camps, trips, adventurous activities and cooking.

Please inform us promptly if there are any changes to:

• Allergies

• Medication (including inhalers or EpiPens)

• Medical diagnoses

• Emergency contact details

• Any condition that may affect participation

Confidentiality

Information shared through an ISP or medical update will be recorded on Online Scout Manager (OSM) as a Care Plan for the young person. Access to this information is restricted. Only the relevant Section Team Members and Leaders, and the Group Leadership Team will be able to view the Care Plan.

Information is stored securely and is only shared on a need-to-know basis in order to keep your young person safe, supported and included. All data is handled in line with data protection requirements.