Chapelhall Explorers prepare to vote

Chapelhall Explorer Scout Unit hosted a meeting of the candidates from the main political parties standing in the Airdrie & Shotts Constituency for the Scottish Parliament election.

Represented were the Scottish Conservatives, Labour, Green, Liberal Democrat, and Scottish National Parties.

The Explorer Scouts heard opening statements from each of the candidates before asking questions about various policies and issues.

Lorna McIlwraith, Explorer Scout Leader, thanked the candidates for taking time out of their busy campaign schedules to meet with the Explorer Scouts, 'the Explorers took the opportunity to question the candidates about issues that they cared about, they listened and they learned. The candidates were keen to influence the young voters and showed an understanding of the concerns of this age group. Candidates and Explorer Scouts left with lots to think about.'

Becky, an Explorer Scout, summed up, 'The evening was very informative and helped me decide on who I would use my vote on because before I was unsure.'

The Explorer Scouts undertook this activity as part of their work towards their Community Impact project.

The project focuses on effecting social change and engaging with decision-makers to discuss issues.

The Explorer Scouts have also chosen to support the work of Chris’s House: Centre for Help, Response & Intervention Surrounding Suicide, the first 24 hour non-medical crisis centre in Scotland, based in Airdrie.