Smiles as Chorley Brownies group defies lockdown difficulties by going 'digital'

The Covid-19 crisis has led to the Girl guiding movement having to suspend all face to face meetings and events, but members of the 2nd Whittle-le-Woods Brownies were determined to find a way to carry on guiding.

Its 16 girls have been connecting with each other, and four leaders, in a group video call.

It means they have been able to carry on taking part in many fun activities - albeit virtual ones - from scavenger hunts and bingo to a ‘bring a pet night’.

Phoebe, nine, said: “Brownies has changed recently because we can’t meet in the usual place so we have done them with video calls, but it’s still really fun.

"We have done quite a few different meetings now – we designed our dream Brownie holiday, we’ve played games, but my favourite was ‘Bring a Pet to Brownies’ week.

"The best thing about having digital Brownie meetings is that you still get to see your friends’ faces instead of just sitting at home on your own."

Many other guiding groups are following suit.

Next week the resilient Brownies will adapt an activity from Girlguiding’s programme to make positive posters which will be displayed in windows, as well as discussing how they can spread random acts of kindness at this time.

The Brownies have also been enjoying completing the many interest badges that form part of the Girlguiding Brownie programme, including Mindfulness, Grow Your Own, Baking, and Painting.

Emma Dixon, Brownie Leader said: “As soon as unit meetings had to be suspended I was really eager to still offer Brownie meetings to our members, albeit digitally. Having now had a month of digital meetings, I can say just how amazing it’s been for girls and leaders alike – Brownies continues to be the highlight of the week, plus, the feeling of routine and familiarity has been invaluable.

"Girlguiding have been so supportive amid the outbreak and have provided so many resources and ideas to help us to continue to delivering guiding and empowering girls”

Girlguiding has launched an online hub packed with fun activities and wellbeing and resilience resources to support children and young people, called Adventures At Home.

The charity has curated a collection of their favourite fun indoor activities to entertain children and young people of all ages through the Coronavirus crisis, opening up its world-

famous programme for everyone to enjoy. Wellbeing and resilience resources include meditation tips, breathing techniques and how to build support networks.

The easy resources are available to everybody for fun, adventure and support during this challenging time.

People do not need to be a member of Girlguiding to give these a try, nor do they need any special kit.

For more information visit www.girlguiding.org.uk.