North Yorkshire Scouts raise concerns over proposed tourist levy on campsites.

Members of North Yorkshire Scouts are calling for clarity on a specific exemption from the proposed tourist levy for volunteer-run scout campsites and activity centres, as plans for the charge in York and North Yorkshire continue to be discussed. The proposal, still under consultation, could apply to overnight accommodations across the region, raising concerns that these scout facilities may fall within its scope.

The discussion follows comments from the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire about introducing a visitor levy to support local services. While no final decisions have been made, leaders within North Yorkshire Scouts are urging policymakers to ensure that charity-run campsites and youth organisations are exempt from the charge.

Across York and North Yorkshire, scouts provide outdoor experiences and activities to thousands of young people each year. In the county alone, around 6,700 young people participate in scouting, supported by approximately 2,000 adult volunteers. Many of these experiences take place at the region’s network of volunteer-run campsites, where young people learn practical skills, develop confidence and spend time outdoors.

However, there are concerns that applying a levy to scout camps could increase the cost of events and place additional administrative pressure on volunteers who already dedicate significant time to supporting young people.

Max Butler, County Lead Volunteer for North Yorkshire Scouts, explained that the organisation is formally requesting a specific exemption for charity and volunteer-led youth group campsites from the proposed tourist levy.

Max Butler said that the proposed levy could have unintended consequences for organisations like Scouts. He explained that voluntary groups rely entirely on the time and commitment of volunteers, and asking them to administer a tax on behalf of the government could take them away from the activities that benefit young people most.

“We are concerned that the new tourist tax could apply to camps and activity centres run by charities like the scouts,”Max Butler said. “Here in North Yorkshire, we have 15 scout campsites, and as the draft legislation currently stands, they could fall within the levy. We’re calling on the Mayor to apply an exemption for organisations like ours.”

Max Butler also highlighted the wider impact a levy could have on accessibility for young people and families. Scout camps are designed to be affordable, with many volunteers working hard behind the scenes to keep costs as low as possible.

“We don’t want to charge young people more money to come to camps and events,” he said. “Our aim is to make scouts as accessible as possible and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to take part.”

Young people involved in scouts have also voiced concerns that even a small nightly charge could add up over longer camps, potentially affecting how often groups can travel or take part in overnight activities. Camps are often one of the most memorable parts of being involved in scouts, giving young people the chance to build friendships, try new activities and develop independence.

Max Butler emphasised that the issue is not about opposing the levy itself, but about ensuring it is applied fairly and in the spirit it was intended.

“This legislation is aimed at accommodation like hotels and Airbnb properties that operate commercially,” he said. “Scouts are not a hotel, and we are not raising money for profit. Any money we raise goes straight back into providing opportunities for young people and supporting our communities.”

Government officials have stated that no final decision has been made on the structure of the levy and that consultations are ongoing to determine which types of accommodation would be included and whether exemptions may apply.

For North Yorkshire Scouts, the priority remains ensuring that outdoor experiences and camps remain accessible to all young people without creating additional barriers for volunteers who already give their time to support the next generation.

Max Butler said he hopes decision makers will carefully consider the role volunteer-led organisations play in communities.

“It’s really important that we protect voluntary organisations so that we can continue to provide opportunities and experiences for young people across our communities,” he said.

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