About Us

Overview

Launched in April 2025, the Raptors are the newest addition to Waltham Forest’s Explorer Scouts, proudly partnered with the 23rd Chingford Scout Group. Explorer Scouts is all about youth-led adventure - you’re in the driver’s seat here. Whether it's planning activities, tackling challenges, or setting goals, the direction comes from you. Our role as leaders? To back you up, open doors, and help turn ideas into action.

When and where do we meet?

We meet on Friday evenings. When we meet indoors we often meet at the 23rd Chingford Scout Group's hall. Bailey Lodge, 20 Bailey Close, London, E4 8HG

Indoor meetings: 19:00 - 21:00

Outdoor meetings: 19:00 - 21:00 (Check OSM for Location)

Meet the Team

Raptors ESU is led by a dedicated team of volunteers, each bringing their own skills, passions, and experiences to the unit. Our leadership team comes from a diverse range of backgrounds—including IT infrastructure, concierge and student services, transportation, and urban park and nature reserve management.

What brings us together is a shared commitment to empowering young people, creating memorable experiences, and helping our Explorers grow in confidence, independence, and life skills.

Rachael

Team Leader

Sam

Team Member

Paul

Team Member

David

Team Member

Raptors Scarf Colours Explained

Our Raptors scarf features a bold black background with a yellow and purple border.

Black and Yellow were chosen as a nod to our partnership with the 23rd Chingford, reflecting our connection and shared support.

Purple sets the Raptors apart — adding a unique touch that represents progression from the 23rd Chingford Scouts to the next stage: Raptors Explorers.

Each colour has meaning — together, they mark where we’ve come from, and the exciting journey ahead.

Costs & Contributions

Raptors Explorers costs just £15 per month, which covers the national HQ membership fee and helps fund our regular weekly meetings.

What does the Monthly Fee cover?

Capitation (HQ Membership fee, Insurance)
Hall Rental Costs
Materials & Resources
Badges

Larger events like camps and adventurous activities may have additional costs, but we’re actively planning fundraising events to help reduce these where possible. We're also eligible for Gift Aid, which means if you're a UK taxpayer, we can claim an extra 25p for every £1 you give — at no extra cost to you!

All payments are collected through Online Scout Manager (OSM) using GoCardless to set up secure Direct Debits.

To view our Payments and Refunds Policy, click here.

Easyfundraising

Did you know that whenever you buy anything online – from your weekly shop to your annual holiday – you could be raising free donations for the Raptors with easyfundraising? There are over 8,000 retailers on board, ready to make a donation – including eBay, Argos, John Lewis & Partners, ASOS, Booking.com and M&S – and it won’t cost you a penny extra to help us raise funds.

All you need to do is:

1. Go to https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/raptors-esu-or-waltham-forest/ and join for free.

2. Every time you shop online, go to easyfundraising first to find the site you want and start shopping.

3. After you’ve checked out, the retailer will donate to Raptors ESU at no extra cost to you whatsoever!

There are no catches or hidden charges, and we will be really grateful for your donations.

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