On the 9th of May, Chief Scout Dwayne Fields had the honour of celebrating James Thorp from Enfield at a special award ceremony held at the Scouts’ home, Gilwell Park. Presenting the Unsung Heroes Award to winners who represent the best in their community for acts of outstanding bravery and selflessness, the Chief Scout was moved by the inspiring personal stories of the winners. 20 young Scouts were selected from over 100 nominations – out of 475,000 Scouts in the UK.
Combined, this group of fantastic young people helped to save 8 lives, support others at times when they needed it most, spent countless hours volunteering in the community, and raised approximately £56,000 for charitable causes that are personal to them.
James of Enfield Scouts, then aged 9 was at home with his mum and two younger brothers while his Dad was at work. While Mum was upstairs she heard a loud crash and shout, as did James.
Rory, James’ youngest brother, then aged 2, had been sitting on the stairs and fell and had a seizure. This was not something that had ever happened before, nor has it happened since. While Rory was still having a seizure, their Mum, a Scout Leader) began to administer first aid. James, recalling on his first aid training at Cubs, remained calm and was able to go and get a trusted neighbour known to the family. James explained what was happening and got them into the house to provide support.
The Unsung Heroes Award is a coveted personal achievement which recognises the amazing skills and endeavours of young people across the Scouts community – from Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and people in the Scout Network. Ranging in age from 5 to 20, the winners were nominated by Scout volunteers for their outstanding bravery and leadership in the community, showing skills and qualities which are learned by being part of the Scouts and subsequently taken through life. Winners were chosen by an experienced panel of Scout Ambassadors led by the Chief Scout.
These inspiring stories of young people doing incredible deeds for others demonstrate the true spirit of Scouting and show why this fantastic group deserve the title of Unsung Heroes.
Chief Scout, Dwayne Fields said “A huge congratulations to the winners of this remarkable award for acts of courage and selflessness in the community. Being part of the Scouts provides young people with skills they take with them through life, and the stories of these young people represent the highest form of Scouting values. I want to thank you for your dedication and celebrate what is a truly outstanding achievement!”
Reflecting on the situation, James is now very proud of himself – however, at the time he didn’t process the enormity of his calming presence and quick thinking which supported his whole family during a medical crisis – all at the young age of 9.
The Unsung Heroes Award ceremony was held at Scouts’ home Gilwell Park, celebrating the most courageous young people across the country. Friends, families and Scouts joined together to proudly watch the outstanding young people as they collected the newest Scout award and reflected on the incredible achievement.