Help with making guiding more affordable

The cost of living is rising. It’s having an impact on all of us, and we know it’s hitting some of our members harder than others.

Here are some tips for parents on how we can make guiding more affordable for those who need it.

Uniform

We love that lots of our members like to wear official Girlguiding uniform, but we’re also aware that costs can add up.

Lots of units run a uniform recycling scheme, so speak to your leader to find out what your options are. And check out this webpage for our guidance on inclusive uniform.

Vouchers and discounts

As part of our participation in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Diamond Fund, we’ve got 100 £100 and 140 £50 GO Outdoors vouchers to give away to girls who are eligible. You can apply if your child is doing their Duke of Edinburgh's Award with Girlguiding. See here for more on this opportunity and to check if you’re eligible. 

We’re also fortunate to partner with a range of businesses who are just as passionate as we are about giving girls great experiences. These include discounted prices at retailers such as GO Outdoors, Blacks and Millets. If you’re a parent, ask your leader for the discount code or email [email protected]. Volunteers can access member discounts in the ‘Member benefits’ section of GO.  

Fundraising

If you’re looking to raise money for a special event or occasion, there are lots of opportunities to fundraise in Girlguiding. This webpage has some fun ideas and tips for you or your volunteers to get involved in.  

You could also help raise funds for your local unit by filling out the Gift Aid declaration form, which will allow your leader to claim Gift Aid on your subs.  

Grants

We want to include as many girls as we can in guiding, regardless of who they are or where they come from. That’s why we offer grants to make Girlguiding more accessible to those who need it. All information on grants and support we provide for girls, units and volunteers can be found here.  

If you’re a parent who could do with some financial support to cover the costs of guiding, it may be worth asking your leader if they can apply for the UK units in need grant. The grant offers funding to cover things like transport to events, uniform, unit resources and more. Although it can’t be used to pay subs, it could free up funds to help.  

You could also speak to your leader about any local grants on offer. 

Speak to your leader

Last but not least, you could speak to your leader about your situation if you feel comfortable.

They can make adjustments such as payment plans and accessible activities, or use some unit funds to subsidise costs for those who need it.    

Support organisations

The Money Advice Service - set up by the government, they offer free and impartial money advice on issues like debt and benefits  

Citizens Advice Bureau - offer free advice on benefits, debt and finance 

NHS – have useful advice on coping with financial worries, and signpost to organisations who can help with emotional and financial difficulties 

Mind – have a webpage on money and mental health where you can find advice on organising finances, talking to services and how to plan ahead 

Gov.uk – information and applications for financial support after having children