About us
The 1st Oulton Broad Sea Scout Group is located in Lowestoft, Suffolk, the most easterly town in the UK. We are the only RN recognised group in the district, offering excellent facilities and opportunities within a friendly and supporting environment.
Founded in 1938 this is the Group's 73rd year.
A brief history of sea scouting
Sea
scouting in the U.K. began in 1908, one year after the establishment of
Scouting itself. During World War I Sea Scouts performed duties as
coastal lookouts and messengers and, in recognition of these deeds,
were formally recognised by the Admiralty Board in 1919, this allowed
them access to Naval equipment and facilities whilst still remaining
independent of any Naval control. During World War II the scheme was
converted so that Sea Scout groups who show themselves able to reach
certain levels of proficiency could apply for stores and grants to help
train young men in basic seamanship before entering military service.
The scheme has been running since then.
What is RN recognition?
There
are some 425-450 Sea Scout groups throughout the UK, and the MoD
recognises a maximum of 101. In order to remain in the scheme groups
must maintain high standards. Groups are subject to an Inspection by
the Staff Officer for Scouts, currently Lt Cdr David Griffiths, every
18 months. This takes place either as a water or land based inspection
where the Group must demonstrate high standards of presentation, water
based skills and efficiency.
Unlike the Sea Cadet Corps, Sea
Scouts are not financially supported by the MoD, apart from an annual
capitation grant to the Scout Association. The driving force behind
groups applying for and remaining in the Royal Naval recognition scheme
is the kudos and associated pride, but groups do have certain
privileges, including; eligible to utilise HMS BRISTOL's facilities,
preferential consideration to use local military facilities, use of Sea
Cadet Stores, eligible to attend 'Big Three' events; Summer Camp,
Soccer Sixes and Swimming Gala.
Only 101 of the 450 Sea Scout Groups are recognised at any one time. Find out more about RN Recognised Sea Scouts 
.
Where to find us
Our Headquarters are on Nelson Wharf (just off Victoria Road) in Oulton Broad, Lowestoft.