I read with interest the recent article by Robert Cheesman, West Sussex County Commissioner for Scouts, on the lack of adult leaders. Maybe it is now time for scouting and guiding to review their ageism policy of compulsory retirement at the age of 65.

There must be leaders who have completed many years of valuable voluntary service, have a wealth of experience and could continue, although they have reached this age.

Young people often leave their own areas for college and university and have to work to keep themselves out of debt. Young parents are also working and bringing up families and have little time to commit themselves to helping at a unit.

Life has changed greatly over the past years and the movements have to reflect on this and use the older experience as long as they feel able.

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