{"subTitle":"Incidents can occur during active games. Here\u0027s some guidance which can help you manage these activities in order to reduce risk.","backgroundImage":{"url":null,"caption":null,"type":null,"size":0,"width":0,"height":0,"altText":null},"backgroundColour":null,"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003EActive games are often played by Scouting sections, this includes sports and wide games. These games are played both indoors and outdoors. They are an important and fun part of our Scouts programme.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis guidance also refers to two categories of active games that require further consideration:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESports\u003C/strong\u003E - refer to physical activities that require significant bodily movement and exertion. This includes Football, Rugby or Field and Track sports.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWide Games \u003C/strong\u003E\u2013 refers to games played over a much larger area and as such should have additional considerations.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis guidance is designed to provide volunteers with some suggestions on how to manage these activities, to reduce the potential for incidents and how to make them inclusive to all.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch4 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca style=\u0022mso-comment-reference: JK_1; mso-comment-date: 20250125T1745;\u0022\u003EHere are some things to think about:\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/h4\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIt\u2019s a good idea to plan your game area, which should be clearly defined for the players. You\u2019ll need to consider how to overcome the key hazards in your planning and risk assessment. For example:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECollisions with objects, such as furniture, walls or fences, windows and doors.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESlips and trips on objects, such as loose matting. spillages, or natural objects (like roots).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EYoung people getting lost, split up from their group or being alone in an emergency.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEnvironmental hazards particular to the location, such as a pond, a low wall with a drop on the other side, a main road or a very hard floor.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"Creating a safe game area"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EBefore you start, make sure the game area is safe and clear of hazards. For example, you might want to walk around the game area, ensuring it is accessible to all, picking up rubbish and removing obstacles, cleaning slippery / wet floors where possible, and where needed change the game area.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ELook out for areas and objects to avoid, such as car parks, roads, dips in the ground, tree stumps, rabbit holes, and poisonous plants.\u0026nbsp;Overhanging trees and branches can pose a specific risk to those participating in wide games these include sudden branch drop and participants getting twigs in their eyes.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Look for hazards "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThink about the speed at which the game is likely to be played, is the playing area big enough, open enough and free of obstacles. Consider if speed needs to be restricted how this can be done and if any obstacles can be seen when the young people are moving at speed.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Plan for speed "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIf it\u2019s in the dark, will the obstacles be seen? How will you appropriately supervise the activity and young people? How will people see or be seen and get help if they need it?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen in total darkness consider how Adults will be able to locate young people and monitor their behaviour.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Plan for darkness "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESetting boundaries with your group in the playing area and tell them where the no-go zones are. For example, inside no-go zones could include the kitchen, stacks of chairs or cupboards. Outside no-go zones could include any hazards you identified, such as roads, dips in the grass, steps, rocks or rivers. You could mark out the boundaries with cones.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA good idea indoors is to have a \u0027stop\u0027 line away from the walls and doors, obstacles or other hazards for running up and down games. This allows space to reach the wall or other obstacles at a lower speed, reducing the potential for a broken wrist or bumps.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Plan boundaries "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMake sure your equipment is undamaged and suitable for use in the game.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMake sure everyone has appropriate footwear and clothing on to play the game, such as trainers and coats.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Plan equipment \u0026 clothing "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EThink about where you will be playing the game and the individuals who will be playing it.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EWill you need to take turns if you have a large group?\u00A0\u003Ca style=\u0022mso-comment-reference: JK_1; mso-comment-date: 20250125T1740;\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022MsoCommentReference\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 115%;\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- [if !supportAnnotations]--\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/span\u003EWhere will those who are waiting be and what will they be doing?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EIf more or less people turn up, how will you adapt the game?\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Plan for group size and change "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca style=\u0022mso-comment-reference: MC_2; mso-comment-date: 20250203T1628; mso-comment-parent: 1;\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Ca style=\u0022mso-comment-reference: JK_1; mso-comment-date: 20250125T1741;\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022mso-comment-continuation: 2;\u0022\u003EAllow for a cool-down space as well as the game area.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022mso-comment-continuation: 2;\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022MsoCommentReference\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 115%;\u0022\u003E\u003C!-- [if !supportAnnotations]--\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EThe cool-down space is an area where participants can go to recover after activities. It\u0027s a place to catch your breath, calm down, and prevent overstimulation or exhaustion.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Have a cooling down or \u2018break\u2019 space "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EWhen considering the number of supervising Adults and their roles consider:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStrategic Placement\u003C/strong\u003E: Place adults at key locations around the site to monitor activities and provide assistance if needed.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EClear Communication\u003C/strong\u003E: Inform participants where adults will be stationed and what to do if anyone in their team needs help.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEmergency Protocols\u003C/strong\u003E: Make sure all supervisors know the procedures to follow in case of an emergency.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EContingency\u003C/strong\u003E: Consider having extra adults to \u2018fill any gaps\u2019 and deal with incidents without impacting ongoing activity supervision.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EAlways follow the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Have appropriate adult supervision "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIf playing in a public space, make sure young people are paired up, so no young person is left alone. They should run, hide, play or move together. Remind everyone how they can use the space respectfully, without disturbing the wildlife or other people enjoying the site if you\u0027re in a public space.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"When using a public space "}]}]},{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Take a look at our Safety Checklists","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EOur Safety Checklists are aimed to help all adults working with young people to fulfil their role and responsibilities in managing and supporting safety in Scouts.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Staying Safe - Safety Checklist","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safety-checklist-cards/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ffe627","title":"Safety Checklists","image":"/media/17306/dsc_5362_mmpmin.png?cc=0,0.066594281577994852,0,0.090571842200506722\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dab7ff7846cba0","imageFocus":"","imageId":31878,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Promo","cta":"10-minute filler games","body":"","link":{"name":"10-minute fillers \u2013 fun games to play during any extra time in Scouts","id":null,"url":"/news/2022/october/10-minute-fillers-fun-games-to-play-during-any-extra-time-in-scouts/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"Take a look at our 10-minute filler games","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]}],"config":null}]},"sections":[{"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003EIt\u0027s important that active games are well-planned and considered. A risk assessment must always be completed.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EGames should be challenging, rewarding and promote positive behaviour amongst the group. There are lots of active game ideas on the Activity Finder with options that are appropriate for all sections and age groups.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt\u0027s important to make sure everyone knows what to do.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThink carefully about the key hazards when playing the game as part of your planning and Risk Assessment. For example:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EThe number of players, their size and abilities, and the control of contact. All these things will need to be considered and monitored.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBehaviour during a game can change. How will you make sure the game continues to be fun for everyone?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHow will you stop the game quickly? For wide games, you may wish to consider the use of a whistle or horn to call everyone back to a specific pre-agreed spot.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHow will you supervise the game? Don\u2019t forget the young people who are \u2018out\u2019 or having a rest will need supervising too.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Ch3 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EHere are some things to think about:\u003C/h3\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EClearly and carefully explain what the rules are. Take time and have patience while telling everyone what to do.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EGive short instructions clearly and concisely. You\u0027ll need to carefully explain these at the start of the game, each time you play it.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EYou could have a practice round of the game to make sure everyone knows what they\u2019re doing.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ELet young people help explain to each other what to do, too.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EThere may be some standard rules for your meeting place, such as only walking on the slope, which you\u0027ll need to remind your players of.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Explain the rules"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ETell everyone how long the game will go on for.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Time limit "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThere may be a contact element in some games. Players will need to understand how to do this safely.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EMake sure everyone understands what contact is acceptable and monitor contact throughout the activity.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor complex games, you may wish to take a step-by-step approach before fully launching into the game. This can make sure everyone knows what to do.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Contact games "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ECarry out regular head counts, more frequently when outside and in the dark, to make sure everyone is accounted for.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Regular head counts "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ERemember to monitor behaviour. You may decide to stop the game if behaviour becomes overexcited.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Behaviour "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EIt\u0027s easy not to notice getting wet, cold or overheated when playing a game. You may want to have drinks or warm jumpers ready for people, as well as a backup plan for any changes to the weather.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Monitor the weather if you are outside "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EHaving a clear way to communicate that the game must stop when needed.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EThis could be a long blow on a whistle. For example, \u20182 blows of the whistle means freeze\u2019.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Have a way to stop in an emergency "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMake sure everyone knows how to get help in an emergency. How will they find an adult or get help to them? How can they get in touch with a\u0026nbsp;home base?\u0026nbsp;\u003Cstrong\u003E \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Getting help "}]}]},{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Take a look at our Safety Checklists","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EOur Safety Checklists are aimed to help all adults working with young people to fulfil their role and responsibilities in managing and supporting safety in Scouts.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Staying Safe - Safety Checklist","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safety-checklist-cards/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ffe627","title":"Safety Checklists","image":"/media/17306/dsc_5362_mmpmin.png?cc=0,0.066594281577994852,0,0.090571842200506722\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dab7ff7846cba0","imageFocus":"","imageId":31878,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Promo","cta":"10-minute filler games","body":"","link":{"name":"10-minute fillers \u2013 fun games to play during any extra time in Scouts","id":null,"url":"/news/2022/october/10-minute-fillers-fun-games-to-play-during-any-extra-time-in-scouts/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"Take a look at our 10-minute filler games","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]}],"config":null}]},"prev":null,"next":{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/additional-considerations-for-sports/","title":"Additional Considerations for Sports"},"allParts":[{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/planning-and-playing-active-games/","title":"Planning and Playing Active Games"},{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/additional-considerations-for-sports/","title":"Additional Considerations for Sports"},{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/additional-considerations-for-wide-games/","title":"Additional Considerations for Wide Games"},{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/making-active-games-accessible/","title":"Making active games accessible"}],"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/planning-and-playing-active-games/","id":85557,"nodeName":"Planning and Playing Active Games","title":"Planning and Playing Active Games","type":"codexPart","image":null,"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"Planning and Playing Active Games","headerSubTitle":null,"headerCta":null,"headerCtaText":null,"headerCtaLink":null,"headerBackgroundColour":null,"showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":null},"searchDescription":"","subHeader":"","browserTitle":null,"silktide":"eyJjbXMiOiJVbWJyYWNvIiwiZWRpdG9yVXJsIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9wcm9kLWNtcy5zY291dHMub3JnLnVrLy91bWJyYWNvIy9jb250ZW50L2NvbnRlbnQvZWRpdC84NTU1NyJ9","canonicalUrl":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/planning-and-playing-active-games/"},{"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003EWhilst considering everything already covered under Planning and Playing Active Games there are some extra considerations when playing sport-based games such as football, rugby or even track and field sports.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESafety considerations are often \u2018baked into\u2019 the rules of the game so it is always worth reading up on the governing bodies\u0027 guidance. \u0026nbsp;For example, FA guidance prevents anyone under the age of 11 from heading the ball.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch4\u003EHere are some things to think about:\u003C/h4\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EMake sure everyone understands what contact is acceptable and monitor contact throughout the activity.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"For contact games and activities"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; color: #242424;\u0022\u003EEnsure everyone wearing the correct safety gear for the sport, such as helmets, mouth guards, shin guards, and appropriate footwear.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022mso-fareast-font-family: \u0027Times New Roman\u0027; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;\u0022\u003ERisk assess and use appropriate equipment such as bats and balls for the participant\u0027s age and ability and the environment you\u0027re playing in.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Proper Equipment "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMake sure everyone is physically fit and mentally prepared for the sport. This includes proper warm-ups and cool-downs to prevent injuries.\u0026nbsp; Consider adapting the game to make it accessible to all for example playing \u2018walking football\u2019.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Fitness "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EEncourage everyone to stay hydrated before, during, and after playing sports to prevent heat-related illnesses.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Hydration"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMake sure that everyone playing is of similar age, size, and skill level to reduce the risk of injury.\u003Cspan style=\u0022mso-spacerun: yes;\u0022\u003E\u0026nbsp; \u003C/span\u003EThis is especially true when Young Leaders join in. Also, remember the Yellow Card always applies.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Age and Skill Appropriateness "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ETeach the rules of the game and the importance of playing safely. 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Ensure it is covered by T0 or that you have the relevant activity permit.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECheck that you have the necessary permissions from the landowners.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EMake sure the area is appropriate with clear boundaries. A good example of this is a park surrounded by roads or houses.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Game Area"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp style=\u0022line-height: 115%;\u0022 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan style=\u0022mso-ascii-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-hansi-font-family: Aptos; mso-bidi-font-family: Aptos;\u0022\u003EIf you\u2019re playing a wide game (a game played over a large area of land), where will you put home base? Always have a memorable \u2018base\u2019 spot where at least one adult will always be present.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Have a home base "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EWide games can often involve hiding clues or \u2018components\u2019, consider what may happen if this is found by a member of the public and have a plan to collect all of these at the end of the game so as not to leave litter.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Environmental \u2013 Leaving clues / components "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EConsider and communicate to everyone what to do if they become lost this could be as simple as walking to the top/bottom of the hill or following a track to a known location.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EConsider means of communication for raising help such as walkie-talkies and mobile phones.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Clear Boundaries \u0026 Getting Lost "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EHave a first aid kit readily available along with a plan for emergencies.\u0026nbsp; This may include a survival bag and warm clothes to help keep a casualty warm.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EConsider means of communication for raising help such as walkie-talkies and mobile phones. Along with how to confirm your, this could be an address or What Three Words.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Emergencies and First Aid "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EIt is advisable to conduct a pre-visit to assess the landscape; however, it is also beneficial to walk the area before the game\u0027s commencement to familiarise yourself with the environment and provide support in explaining the game area.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u0026nbsp;Before the game begins, inspect the playing area for potential hazards such as sharp objects, uneven ground, and the presence of poisonous plants or animals. If any hazards are identified, ensure they are documented in your risk assessment and that appropriate control measures are implemented.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EWhen selecting a wide game site give consideration to, how if needed the emergency services would access the site and evacuate a casualty.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Environment Check "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMake sure participants are wearing suitable clothing and footwear for the terrain and weather conditions.\u0026nbsp; When playing at sunset or after dark ensure everyone has access to a torch.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Appropriate Clothing \u0026 Torch "}]}]},{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Take a look at our Safety Checklists","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EOur Safety Checklists are aimed to help all adults working with young people to fulfil their role and responsibilities in managing and supporting safety in Scouts.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Staying Safe - Safety Checklist","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safety-checklist-cards/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ffe627","title":"Safety Checklists","image":"/media/17306/dsc_5362_mmpmin.png?cc=0,0.066594281577994852,0,0.090571842200506722\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dab7ff7846cba0","imageFocus":"","imageId":31878,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Promo","cta":"Check out our wide game ideas","body":"","link":{"name":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/?name=wide%20game","id":null,"url":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/?name=wide%20game","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"Wide game ideas","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]}],"config":null}]},"prev":{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/additional-considerations-for-sports/","title":"Additional Considerations for Sports"},"next":{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/making-active-games-accessible/","title":"Making active games accessible"},"allParts":[{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/planning-and-playing-active-games/","title":"Planning and Playing Active Games"},{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/additional-considerations-for-sports/","title":"Additional Considerations for Sports"},{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/additional-considerations-for-wide-games/","title":"Additional Considerations for Wide Games"},{"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/making-active-games-accessible/","title":"Making active games accessible"}],"link":"/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/additional-considerations-for-wide-games/","id":85554,"nodeName":"Additional Considerations for Wide Games","title":"Additional Considerations for Wide Games","type":"codexPart","image":null,"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"Additional Considerations for Wide Games","headerSubTitle":null,"headerCta":null,"headerCtaText":null,"headerCtaLink":null,"headerBackgroundColour":null,"showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":null},"searchDescription":"","subHeader":"","browserTitle":null,"silktide":"eyJjbXMiOiJVbWJyYWNvIiwiZWRpdG9yVXJsIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9wcm9kLWNtcy5zY291dHMub3JnLnVrLy91bWJyYWNvIy9jb250ZW50L2NvbnRlbnQvZWRpdC84NTU1NCJ9","canonicalUrl":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/running-active-and-wide-games/additional-considerations-for-wide-games/"},{"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003ESome players may need additional support or adjustments made to a game so they can comfortably join in. You can adjust equipment, space and technique in any game to suit your players.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERemember, all Scout activities should be inclusive and accessible. Find out more about Agreeing adjustments.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch4\u003EHere are some things to think about:\u003C/h4\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ECan the rules be simplified or relaxed?\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Adapt the rules "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EThink about the accessibility of the area you are playing in. Can everyone move around the space? Do you need to make some areas out of bounds?\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EAny unsuitable terrain could be included in the no-go zones to make the game accessible and fairer to everyone playing.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Adapting the playing area "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMake sure the circle space and the surrounding terrain used are suitable for everyone in your group.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ERemember to create a circle with enough space for everyone, including anyone using a mobility aid, to move around easily.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Adapting a circle game "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ECan people move differently across the space? Do people have to run to play the game?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ESome people may choose to walk or take on a more stationary role, such as guarding the den.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Change the speed "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ECan you adapt the level of noise in the game? Does it need to involve noise, such as whistles or shouting?\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EWhen the noise level rises, gently remind everyone of the game rules and encourage them to use indoor voices.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EYou could provide ear defenders for the person to wear. You could allow people to take noise breaks.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EIf playing inside, shutting external doors and windows can help reduce noise too.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Monitor noise "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMake sure there\u2019s a way to include everyone in this game or activity.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EThis might be allowing them to take on another role instead, such as timekeeping, scorekeeping, playing or stopping music, or refereeing.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Let people take on different roles "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EPeople could play a game in pairs or small teams to support each other. They might run, hide, throw or catch together.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EIf taking this approach, apply it to everyone in the group rather than an individual.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Play in pairs "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ETake time and have patience while telling everyone what to do.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EGive short instructions clearly and concisely. If you need to, pause, then repeat the same instruction using the same words.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EYou could let young people help explain to each other what to do, too.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Give clear instructions "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EYou could demonstrate the game or have a practice round to make sure everyone knows what they\u2019re doing. 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