When people ask me what makes Poacher special, they usually expect me to talk about the scale of the activities, the international contingents, or the sheer magic of the Lincolnshire Showground transformed into a mini-city. But for me, the answer is always the people in the neckers and high-vis vests.

Poacher International Jamboree is described as a lifetime of an adventure for our participants. But that experience doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built on:

 
• The leaders who are busy preparing breakfast, lunch and dinner for their group, while they are enjoying all the activities. 
• The team prepping breakfast and coffee before the sun has even thought about coming up.
• The subcamp teams and info desk wizards who handle every “I’ve lost my mobile phone” with a smile.
• The activity leaders who keep their enthusiasm at 100%, whether it’s the first or fiftieth participant of the day.
• The media teams, the medical crew, the transport drivers, and the site services team  – and more – who keep the site running smoothly.

Volunteering at Poacher isn’t just about giving your time, it’s about impact.
 

I’ve watched volunteers help a nervous Scout find the courage to climb their first wall. I’ve seen international friendships forged over a shared task in the kitchen. I’ve seen our team grow, learn new skills, and support one another through the inevitable British weather.
 

You aren’t just volunteering, but you are mentoring, leading, and creating a safe, adventurous space for thousands of young people to find themselves.
 

To every single person who has signed up, whether you’re a Poacher veteran or joining us for the first time – Thank you. 
 

Thank you for your patience, your creativity, and your unwavering commitment to Scouting and Guiding.
 

I can’t wait to see you all on site soon. Let’s make this the best Jamboree yet!
 

Yours in Scouting & Guiding,
 

Andrew
 
Jamboree Lead, Poacher International Jamboree