Uniform Update: Wearable Technology (April Fools 2019)
Author: Richard Harvey
Published: April 1, 2019
As you will have seen in the last membership e-mail a review of our uniform is currently underway (the last review being 18 years ago). This is expected to be a long and considered process – and no decision has been made to change at this stage, and there are no immediate changes to uniform.
We are excited to be part of developing options for wearable technology being incorporated into uniform. We are looking for ten groups/sections in Lincolnshire to sign up if they are interested in taking part in live-trials (this will be on a first come first served basis). If your group/section is interested, please contact programme@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk with your preferred trial option (where possible we will try and facilitate your preferred option but it may not be possible in all cases).
Where smart technology is required to support the trials, this will also be provided for the trial duration.
Option 1 – Digital Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief
Option 2 – Built-in Smart Device Charging
With a greater reliance on smart devices we want to ensure they are available to use 24/7. Charge will be generated by solar panels on garments and movement via an in-shoe generator.
We successfully trialled a prototype during the recent Lincoln Monopoly Run by one of the Adult teams. This allowed their smart phone to stay charged all day.
Option 3 – Waterproof Coating
Option 4 – Colour Changing Shirts
Technology allows materials to change colours based on temperature. Something that is easy to overlook on Scouting activities are the effects of heat (both hot and cold). Currently being developed are shirts that turn red when the body temperature is too high and blue when too cold to aid early identification of heat related issues.
There are currently a few teething problems with an advance feature. It is hoped that the shirts will also change to vibrant pink indicating ‘needs feeding’. The teething problems have resulted in Explorer Scouts shirts constantly becoming vibrant pink!
Option 5 – Self Cleaning and Ironing
This is one for the parents and carers (volunteers may also benefit). Through our programme we are looking to develop #SkillsForLife so it will become compulsory for all members (in all sections) to learn to wash and iron before becoming a full member (don’t worry, full support using an iron and washing machine will be given and there will be no maximum timescale on completing this!). It is hoped that this option will be adopted to make the entire Scout Uniform self-cleaning and ironing for parents/carers).
We are excited to be part of developing options for wearable technology being incorporated into uniform. We are looking for ten groups/sections in Lincolnshire to sign up if they are interested in taking part in live-trials (this will be on a first come first served basis). If your group/section is interested, please contact programme@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk with your preferred trial option (where possible we will try and facilitate your preferred option but it may not be possible in all cases).
What’s in it for sections/groups?
Each group/section will be provided with a full set of trial uniform for each member across the next 12 months and play a key role in supporting the development of our next generation uniform.Where smart technology is required to support the trials, this will also be provided for the trial duration.
Option 1 – Digital Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief
Many members both young and old like to collect all the different styles of Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief and we want to bring this in-line with the latest technology trend and are looking to launch a digital version. This will feature an advanced material and LED technology allowing the wearer to collect a style via the ‘MyNecker’ app and upload to their Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief.
With a greater reliance on smart devices we want to ensure they are available to use 24/7. Charge will be generated by solar panels on garments and movement via an in-shoe generator.
We successfully trialled a prototype during the recent Lincoln Monopoly Run by one of the Adult teams. This allowed their smart phone to stay charged all day.
Option 3 – Waterproof Coating
As we know, sections are not allowed outside when it rains. To overcome this barrier to Scouting we are looking at a special coating for all uniform items to repel water, meaning we can once again put the out into Scout!
Technology allows materials to change colours based on temperature. Something that is easy to overlook on Scouting activities are the effects of heat (both hot and cold). Currently being developed are shirts that turn red when the body temperature is too high and blue when too cold to aid early identification of heat related issues.
There are currently a few teething problems with an advance feature. It is hoped that the shirts will also change to vibrant pink indicating ‘needs feeding’. The teething problems have resulted in Explorer Scouts shirts constantly becoming vibrant pink!
Option 5 – Self Cleaning and Ironing
This is one for the parents and carers (volunteers may also benefit). Through our programme we are looking to develop #SkillsForLife so it will become compulsory for all members (in all sections) to learn to wash and iron before becoming a full member (don’t worry, full support using an iron and washing machine will be given and there will be no maximum timescale on completing this!). It is hoped that this option will be adopted to make the entire Scout Uniform self-cleaning and ironing for parents/carers).
Awards Ceremony We held our annual Adult Awards Evening at Burghley House, celebrating the achievements and dedication of volunteers across Lincolnshire over the past year. During the evening, we recognised a range of prestigious awards, including the King’s Scout Award, Explorer Belt, Silver Acorn, and the Silver Wolf. These awards are among the highest honours in Scouting and recognise outstanding service, commitment, and the positive impact volunteers make for young people.
Young Leader Training Weekend – Book Now! Are you a Scout Young Leader or Explorer Scout looking to develop your leadership skills? Join us for a fantastic Young Leader Training Weekend at 7th Grantham Scout HQ from 5–7 June . This weekend will give you the chance to complete Young Leader training modules (A–J) , build confidence, and gain practical skills to support younger sections in Scouting. The Young Leaders’ Scheme helps Explorers aged 14–18 develop leadership skills while volunteering alongside adult leaders in Beavers, Cubs or Scouts. What to expect • Arrival Friday evening – collection Sunday afternoon • Camping available (day visitors also welcome) • Training modules A–J delivered • Fun activities and additional skill sessions • Meet other Young Leaders from across the area • All meals included 📍 Location: 7th Grantham Scout HQ, Earlsfield Lane, Grantham 📋 Book your place here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/E2vdn4ekwA Places are limited, so please book early and share with Young Leaders in your group or district . #Scouts #YoungLeaders #SkillsForLife #LincolnshireScouts #VolunteerLeadership
Leadership Opportunities in the Lincolnshire Scouts Senior Team
Congratulations Andrew!
Welcome to the latest edition of the Lincs County Bulletin. This is issued on the first Friday of each month. The bulletin will be sent to all adults registered on My Membership and distributed widely. To submit material for the bulletin please email howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk . Download as a PDF View historic Bulletins In this issue: From the County Lead Volunteer County Young Leader Training Weekend Digital App First Aid in Scouts Honoured at Westminster Abbey Grantham Gangshow County Programme Team Leader and County Youth Lead Vacancies Air Rifle Course Archery Course 16 Hour Outdoor First Aid Course
Vacancy - County Treasurer & Trustee We are looking for a volunteer Treasurer for our Lincolnshire County Trustee Board to start in late September.
Dates for First Response Courses
Prog Fest 2026
