SCOUTING

Ms JODIE HARRISON(Charlestown)I have long been a supporter of Scouting, and I would like to acknowledge the ways in which Scouts NSW and local Scouting groups in the Charlestown Electorate have risen to the extraordinary challenges of COVID-19. Scouting is so important for the growth of young people and the development of resilience and life skills. The Resilience Survey, commissioned by Scouts Australia, has found that young people involved in Scouts have an overall better life satisfaction that their peers; are more likely to feel good about themselves; are more likely to trust others; are more likely to feel they make a positive contribution to their community; are more like to forgive themselves if they make a mistake; and are less likely to report feeling tired or having little energy. The report also found that Scouts are more likely to report positive mental and physical health. At a time when so many young people feel disconnected from their communities and are experiencing a great deal of pressure, Scouting is a productive outlet which builds resilience for life. I applaud Scouts Australia, Scouts NSW and our local Scouting chapters, as well as all the Scouts and volunteers who support them.

A Community Recognition Statement is an opportunity for an MP to give a short speech praising the work of an individual or group in the local community. If you have any ideas about people I can recognise with a Community Recognition Statement, please email and let me know!