Scout Association says new badges were needed to allow younger members to develop a wider range of skills.

This article is more than 6 years old

This article is more than 6 years old

Scouts will be able to adorn their uniforms with new badges recognising their achievements in pursuits such as media relations and disability awareness along with traditional activities such as camping.

The Scout Association has today launched a range of new activity badges for its youth members, allowing Scouts to show progress in a wider range of existing pursuits.

Ten of the new badges are aimed at Beaver Scouts - with awards for disability awareness and an understanding of outer space among them.

The new activity badges - across the different age ranges - include: disability, gardening, space, sports, environmental, fundraising, media relations, and air and sea navigation.

The launch of these new badges follows an extensive 10-month consultation process within and outside of the Scouting movement, during which the Scout Association consulted with over 12,000 members through focus groups, surveys, social media and events.

The consultation identified the need to create new badges that allow younger Scouts to develop a wider range of skills.

Traditional Scouting skills are not left out with new badges being made available to those who camp out, hike or sleep out under the stars. Badges are now available for those who clock up 200 nights away camping throughout their scout career.

Chief Scout Bear Grylls said: "We're delighted to be launching a new range of badges that guarantee fun and adventure while encouraging Scouts to develop a greater understanding of modern society and the contribution they can make to society.

"Throughout its 107-year history the Scouting movement has continued to evolve - these new badges make sure we are able to keep offering activities that educate and enthuse young people in equal measure."