Bembridge Scout Leader Appointed To Head Up Scouting On The Isle Of Wight

Scouts UK has appointed Tom Vincent as the new County Lead Volunteer for the Isle of Wight.

Tom, who currently serves as Group Lead Volunteer for 1st Bembridge, St Helens & Seaview, will formally take up the role following the Isle of Wight Scouts County AGM on 8 July.

His involvement in Scouting began at the age of eight as a Cub in Wiltshire before progressing through Sea Scouts as both a Scout and Leader.

After moving to the Isle of Wight in 2013, he joined Bembridge Sea Scouts in 2019 when his son started at Beavers.

Tom initially helped with the Beaver section before taking over the Cub section in 2022 and later becoming Group Lead Volunteer.

He lives in Bembridge with his wife and two children, both of whom remain involved in Scouting.

Away from Scouting, Tom works as a Captain with Wightlink, where he has been employed for the past 21 years.

Speaking about his appointment, Tom said:

“I am excited to begin my new role and continue my Scouting journey here on the Isle of Wight.

"My immediate focus is to get to know our amazing volunteers, listening to them to learn how best to support them in the work they do for the young people in our communities.

"Their commitment is what keeps Scouting alive, and it’s vital we continue to support them.

"I look forward to leading Scouting on the Island as we continue to adapt and grow and support our young people in their personal development.”

James Palin, Region Lead for South East England, said:

“Tom has demonstrated a strong commitment to Scouting and to supporting volunteers and young people in his current role.

"Following a call for applications and a competitive interview panel process, Tom was selected to lead Scouting across the County.

"I wish him every success in his new role and look forward to working with him.

“I would also like to express my sincere thanks to Dave Simpson for his outstanding leadership, dedication and service over the past seven years.

"Dave’s commitment to Scouting on the Isle of Wight has made a lasting impact, and the County is stronger because of his contribution.

"We are immensely grateful for everything he has achieved during his tenure.

“Finally, I would like to thank all our volunteers for the incredible contribution they make to Scouting across the Isle of Wight.

"Their time, energy and commitment continue to create life-changing opportunities for hundreds of young people, and their support is deeply valued.”

The County Lead Volunteer oversees the Island's County Scout Team, which supports local Scout Groups, Explorer Scout Units and specialist teams, including those at Corf Scout Campsite.

Scouting is the largest voluntary sector provider of activities for young people on the Isle of Wight and relies on adult volunteers to deliver its programmes.

Volunteer opportunities are available in Scout Groups and Units across the Island.