The RN Scheme was created to say thank you for the role that Sea Scout Groups played in support of the coastal watch efforts during the Second World War.
Sea Scout Troops or Explorer Sea Scout Units may apply to become RN Recognised, under an agreement between the Scout Association and the Royal Navy, which brings a number of benefits and a great deal of honour to the Group or Unit.
There are only a total of 105 places allocated to the scheme. Groups or Units who apply for RN recognition will have an initial inspection by a representative of the Royal Navy. If the Group or Unit passes the inspection, they will be inspected every 18 months to 2 years.
Inspections
RN Recognised Groups are inspected at approximately 18-month intervals to assess whether they have maintained standards and are worthy of retaining their Recognition.
A Royal Navy Officer (Normally the local URNU Commanding Officer) will visit the Group and meet the young people and Adults, often we will put on some ceremonial and boating activities to demonstrate the skills the young people are developing. To retain Recognition the Group and/or Unit must satisfy the Inspecting Officer that it continues to achieve a good standard, in appearance, dress, bearing and badge work, as well as showing progress in efficiency.
Benefits
Recognised Groups and/or Units are permitted to:
- Wear the Royal Navy Pennant.
- Fly the defaced Red Ensign.
- Visit and camp at HMS Bristol in Portsmouth and at certain other military establishments, by prior arrangement.
- Visit other HM Ships, subject to available leadership supervision.
- Attend Sea Cadet and CCF Units for lectures and instruction by prior arrangement with the local Officer in Charge.
- Use equipment provided by the Royal Navy.
- Access Sea Cadet stores for Caps and other clothing.
- Apply for grants from the Admiralty Fund towards training and new equipment.
- Participate in the annual big, RN-sponsored events, namely the swimming gala held in February at HMS Raleigh, the Sea Scout summer camp held during the May Bank Holiday period, the Soccer Sixes competition held in late September and the Sea Explorer Scout camp held in late October, the latter three events all being held at Whale Island, Portsmouth.
- Participate in Leader afloat training weekends held at the Royal Naval Sailing Centre, Whale Island, Portsmouth.