Seven years ago, World Scouting set out to streamline support for National Scout Organizations (NSOs) by launching WOSM Services. Today, we proudly celebrate a major milestone - over 1,000 services delivered to over 200 NSOs and National Scout Associations (NSAs) worldwide!
This achievement has fuelled growth, strengthened National Youth Programmes, enhanced support for Adults in Scouting, and made Scout events safer and more inclusive. Every service delivered has amplified the impact of our Movement.
Key milestones and numbers
1. How many services were delivered every year?
Since 2019, we have delivered at least 150 services annually, ensuring that every NSO - regardless of location or language - can access tailored support. In 2020, this figure surged to a record 193 service requests, reflecting the urgent need for NSOs to adapt to the global pandemic. Virtual connections with consultants proved crucial in helping NSOs navigate challenges.
2. How many consultants were trained to join the WOSM Consultants Pool?
Volunteers are the driving force behind our Movement. When WOSM Services was launched in 2018, 40 volunteers were trained to support service delivery. Due to overwhelming interest from our members, we expanded the team, training an additional 300 consultants between 2019 and 2023. Today, a network of 335 volunteer consultants and around 40 staff are trained and ready to assist NSOs worldwide.
3. How many services have NSOs requested?
Scouting’s growth is unstoppable! Since its launch, around 28% of NSOs have completed more than five services, while 14% have completed more than ten. Requesting a service isn’t a sign of struggle - it’s a commitment to excellence in delivering the best possible experience to Scouts everywhere.
4. Is there a link between services and growth?
Absolutely! Our latest census data shows that NSOs with at least one delivered service experienced an average growth rate of 21% between 2017 and 2022, while those that never requested a service saw around a 7% decline over the same period. Even if membership growth isn’t the primary goal, strengthening its Youth Programmes, communications campaigns, child and youth safety, and external partnerships ultimately drives long-term growth and sustainability.
5. What are the most requested services?
Among the 13 services available, the top three most services areas - each exceeding 100 requests - were: Good Governance, Adults in Scouting, and Scouts for SDGs.
This trend shows that NSOs are prioritising building strong foundations. NSOs are enhancing their governance mechanisms and making sure that adults are trained, empowered, and inspired to deliver the best Scouting experiences to youth in their communities - ensuring that Scouting programmes are impactful and future-proof.
Over the past 18 months, demand for Safe from Harm services has risen. Following the implementation of the Safe from Harm compliance mechanism, 33 services were requested to support NSOs with assessing their organisation, designing and implementing a Safe from Harm policy, and running training for adults on child and adult safety.
Why our consultants volunteer
"Volunteers are the driving force behind our Movement. When WOSM Services was launched in 2018, 40 volunteers were trained to support service delivery. Due to overwhelming interest from our members, we expanded the team, training an additional 300 consultants between 2019 and 2023. Today, a network of 335 volunteer consultants and around 40 staff are trained and ready to assist NSOs worldwide."
Amir Cheema, The Scouts Association (United Kingdom)
“Being a WOSM Consultant helped my personal development; I became more aware of my strengths and weaknesses, and more importantly I developed the empathy to help fellow Scout organisations as well as my teammates within our WOSM Consultants Pool. “
Norma Noordin, Persekutuan Pengakap Malaysia (Malaysia)
What do our members say?
“I recommend making use of the WOSM consultants who deliver WOSM services due to their extensive knowledge, and because they are trained to serve our NSOs, as we don’t always have experts in technical and Scouting matters in our associations.”
- Natalia Andrea Santofimio Luján, Asociación Scouts de Colombia (Colombia) - 23 services
“WOSM Services is the most useful support tool there is! It is easy to use, the consultants are supportive and the action plan can be tailor-made for your organisation. There are different ways a consultant can support you and contribute to the growth and strengthening of your organisation. Give it a go and you will always know where you can ask for support regarding other challenges next time you need it.”
Elisaveta Lukanovska, Sojuz na Izvidnici na Makedonija (North Macedonia) - 13 services
Request a service today!
The WOSM Services team is proud of the incredible efforts of our members, Consultants, and staff who have made this achievement possible! Since 2018, we have been working towards achieving Scouting’s vision, harnessing WOSM Services to help us get there. Let’s keep the momentum going!
Is your NSO looking for expert support? Request a service today and receive tailored support from qualified WOSM Consultants in any of the 13 service areas! More details can be found on the WOSM Services page.