International Handbook For Web

I N T E R N AT I O N A L
HANDBOOK
YO U R PA S S P O RT TO
GUIDING
CO N T E N T S
2
I N T E R N AT I O N A L C O M M I S S I O N E R S M E S S A G E
3
W H AT I S I N T E R N AT I O N A L G U I D I N G ?
24
I N T E R N AT I O N A L G U I D I N G O P P O R T U N I T I E S
30
P L A N N I N G YO U R I N T E R N AT I O N A L T R I P
46
APPENDICES
CO M M I S S I O N E R S
M E S S AG E
We are delighted to be able to present the following
International Handbook, updated in 2014.
This handbook will give you an insight in to the global Guiding
movement that is WAGGGS.
It is also hoped that this handbook will enthuse and increase
awareness of the wide variety of international experiences
available to members of CGI.
By using this tool, leaders will be equipped with the skills and
knowledge to plan to take girls and young women abroad.
We hope you find the handbook useful and inspring in taking
on the challenge of participating in an international seminar or
organising an international trip.
If you have any queries in relation to International, email
international@girlguidesireland.ie.
Yours in Guiding,
International Commissioner.
C G I I N T E R N AT I O N A L H A N D B O O K
W H AT I S
G U I D I N G?
W H AT I S WAG G G S ?
W E , A S M E M B E R S O F CG I , A R E PA RT O F A
M U C H L A R G E R A S S O C I AT I O N , W A G G G S T H E W O R L D A S S O C I AT I O N O F G I R L G U I D E S
AND GIRL SCOUTS - AND THIS BRINGS SO
M ANY O PP ORTU N ITI E S TO U S .
With ten million Girl Guides and Girl Scouts from 145 countries
across the world, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl
Scouts (WAGGGS) is the largest voluntary movement dedicated
to girls and young women in the world.
The World Association supports girls and young women to
develop their full potential as responsible citizens of the world.

WAGGGS focuses on leadership development and active
citizenship. These are delivered through innovative global
education, community and advocacy programs.
WAGGGS deliver a well-established, unique, values-based
approach to non-formal learning that is international and
intergenerational. Girls and young women develop life skills
through self-development, challenge and adventure.
There are five regions in WAGGGS Africa, Arab, Asia Pacific,
Europe and Western Hemisphere and there are four World
Centres.
Our Chalet in Switzerland, Sangam in India, Pax Lodge in UK and

Our Cabaa in Mexico, with a fifth Pilot Project underway to
establish a different type of World Centre in Africa. The World
Centres are both residential and training centres where girls and
young women develop leadership skills through international
programmes and friendships.
Guiding gives us so many ways to belong to the outside world
both as members of WAGGGS and as responsible citizens of the
world.
Whatever your experience, this handbook is designed to give
you a greater awareness of International Guiding along with
making things easier for you when planning events by providing
the information you need to get organised and ensure that you
meet with any requirements.
W H AT I S C I G A ?
I N T H E 19 7 0 s , T H E C AT H O L I C G U I D E S O F I R E L A N D
(CGI) LOOKED INTO BECOMING MEMBERS OF THE
W O R L D A S S O C I AT I O N O F G I R L G U I D E S A N D G I R L
S CO U T S ( WAG G G S ).
The Irish Girl Guides, already a member of WAGGGS at this

point, and the Catholic Guides of Ireland, with assistance from
the World Board, began working towards a solution for CGI to
also become members.
In December 1992, it was agreed to establish Comhairle
Bantreoraithe na hireann or Council of Irish Guiding
Associations. In July 1993, at the 28th World Conference held in
Denmark, the Council of Irish Guiding Associations was ratified
as a full member of WAGGGS and was recognised as continuing
the Full Membership first gained by the Irish Girl Guides in 1932.
The Council consists of the Irish Girl Guides and the Catholic
Guides of Ireland on behalf of their members resident in the
Republic of Ireland.
7
THE CIGA LOGO
REPRESENTS THE
INTERLINKING OF
THE TWO GUIDING
ASSOCIATIONS AND
THE SHARING AND
COOPERATION THAT
TAKES PLACE.
WAG G G S WO R L D
CENTRES
WAG G G S H A S F O U R WO R L D C E N T R E S : O U R C H A L E T
IN SWITZERL AND, OUR CABAA IN ME XICO,
S A N G A M , I N I N D I A , PA X LO DG E I N LO N DO N .
There is a pilot project underway to establish a different type

of world centre in Africa as the Fifth World Centre.
Visiting a World Centre brings international friendship, fun,

challenge, adventure and self-development. The World Centres
offer programs and activities for all ages, and are open to visitors
both inside and outside the Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting
Movement.
Visiting a World Centre is a unique opportunity to experience
international travel while in the comfort of the safety and
support of fellow Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. The administration
staff and volunteers at the centres are all members of WAGGGS
and from various countries around the world.
There are opportunities to work at any of the World Centres as
either one of the professional team or as a volunteer assistant,
details are available on each of the centres own websites and the
WAGGGS website.
Each centre offers activities designed to give members of the

movement the opportunity to learn more about other people,
other cultures and other countries. All the centres have a
different atmosphere and programme.
Participants are often organised into patrols for light duties and
there is often some form of sharing of each others customs and
culture, for example an international evening.
10
11
12
OUR CHALET SWITZERL AND

OUR CHALET IS SET AMONG THE ALPINE PEAKS OF THE
BERNESE OBERL AND OF ADELBODEN , SWITZERL AND.
Our Chalet was the first

World Centre. Members
of WAGGGS have enjoyed
skiing, hiking, fun and
friendship since 1932.
Who Can Stay:
All members of WAGGGS and

WOSM, over 12 years of age,
and their family and friends, are
welcome at the Chalet.
Facilities:
13
The main building has rooms

that hold 1-7 people and an
attic dormitory for up to 22
people (on mattresses on the
floor). The New Chalet, the
Spycher, has rooms for 1-4
people (some single, some bunk
beds). In the summer months,
a campsite is available with
a camphouse; there is also a
squirrel house with beds for 11
people, and a baby chalet with
beds for 2-4 people.
Programme:
During the summer, Our Chalet

allows time to explore the Alps
on foot, try rock-climbing, learn
about traditions and maybe
even climb a mountain.
The winter programme
includes many different winter
sports. Chalet staff offer skiing
lessons, free of charge. You
can also try snowboarding,
snowshoeing, cross-country
skiing. In the evening, some of
the typical events are campfires,
sledging, games and much more!
Address:
Our Chalet
Hohliebeweg 1
3715 Adelboden
Switzerland
Tel: + 41 33 673 1226
Email: info@ourchalet.ch
Website: www.ourchalet.ch
14
SANGAM INDIA
S A N G A M I S T H E YO U N G E S T O F T H E WO R L D C E N T R E S .
T H E W O R D , S A N G A M , M E A N S C O M I N G T O G E T H E R .
Since its beginning in 1966,

Sangam has been a safe,
neutral place for youth and
adult members of WAGGGS
to come together. Sangam
is situated on the banks
of the Mula River, Pune,
about 190km from Mumbai
(Bombay) India.
15
Insect repellent is also a must.

Types of events:
The event season focuses on

UN issues, Guiding issues,
Guiding themes and cultural
exchanges. These events enable
participants to experience
aspects of India by meeting
Sangams neighbours, visiting
Who can stay :
community projects, touring
All registered members of
Pune and shopping at the local
National Organisations, over 18 bazzers.You can also have a
years old, are eligible to attend tailormade special event for a
events at Sangam, members
group of 10 or more people,
16-18 years are welcome when the programme maybe based
accompanied by a leader.
on a particular issue education,
service in the community,
Facilities:
learning about Sangam and India
Sangam can accommodate 40
and of course relaxing.
people in dorms and 14 people
Address:
in double and single dorms.
Sangam has basic washing and Alandi Road
ironing facilities and a dhobi or Yerawada
washerman service is available. Pune, Maharashtra 411 006
All bed linen including towel
India
and blankets are provided.
Tel: +91 (0) 20 6500 8066
E-mail: info@
Health:
sangamworldcentre.org
It is strongly recommended
Website: www.
that you get immunised against sangamworldcentre.org
typhoid, cholera, tetanus,
polio and hepatitis. Malaria
medication needs to be taken
by everyone going to Sangam.
16
O U R C A B A A M E X I CO
THE MISSION OF OUR CABAA IS TO CHALLENGE
G I R L S A N D YO U N G W O M E N T O L I V E I N T E R N AT I O N A L
F R I E N D S H I P S A N D U N D E R S TA N D I N G .
Our Cabaa opened in

July 1957. It is located in
Cuernavaca, Mexico, which is
50 miles from Mexico City.
differ throughout the year.

Adult sessions normally focus
on given themes or around a
Mexican festival. Girl Sessions
are primarily intended to
Who Can Stay:
encourage International
Our Cabaa offers programmes Friendship and Team Building.
of varying lengths to all
All sessions include a service
members of WAGGGS over 13 project. Some projects in the
years.
past have been house building,
working with the elderly, etc.
Facilities:
Address:
Seven buildings set in a
tropical garden setting provide
residential facilities for 82
people. There is a solar-heated
outdoor swimming pool.
17
Types of Events:
Programmes at our Cabaa
Our Cabaa, AP 4-126,

Cuernavaca 62431
Morelos, Mexico
Tel: + 52 777 315 26 50
Email: ourcabana@ourcabana.
org.mx
Website: wwww.ourcabana.org
18
PA X LO D G E LO N D O N , U K
PA X LO DG E I S B A S E D I N LO N DO N A N D I S TH E S ECO N D
OLDEST WORLD CENTRE .
There have been three

WAGGGS World Centres in
London, Our Ark (1939-59),
Olave House (1959-88) and
Pax Lodge (1991-present).
19
also long-term accommodation

available for students at special
rates.
Types of Events:
Pax Lodge provides

Pax Lodge is an ideal place
opportunities for friendships,
to stay when visiting London. education and accommodation.
Staff are happy to help
It has a varied programme
with planning or providing
and seminars are offered
information on sightseeing,
throughout the year. Some of
theatre trips, etc.
the topics discussed at these
seminars are womens issues,
Who can Stay:
environment and historical and
All members of WAGGGS,
cultural aspects of London.
WOSM, ISGF either as
Address:
individuals, in groups or as
families are welcome.
Pax Lodge
Olave Centre
Facilities:
12c Lyndhurst Road
Accommodation in singleLondon
to four-bedded rooms and
NW3 5PQ
conference rooms also
Tel: +44 207 435 2202
available. Guides with special
Fax: +44 207 431 3825
needs are welcome and
E-Mail: office@paxlodge.org
the building is completely
Website: www.paxlodge.org
wheelchair accessible. There is
WAG G G S AWA R D S
WAG G G S AWA R D S R E CO G N I S E
AND HONOUR INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS
W I T H I N A N D O U T S I D E O F T H E M O V E M E N T.
AWA R D R E C I P I E N T S H AV E :
Distinguished themselves through outstanding service to

international Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting
Made a real contribution to the lives of girls and young
women in a global society.
The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts presents

four awards:

Olave Award
World Citizenship
WAGGGS Medals
20
The Olave Award
The Olave Award is given to local Girl Guide or Girl Scout

groups in recognition of outstanding community service projects,
to honour the memory of the World Chief Guide, Olave BadenPowell, and to keep her belief in the spirit of service alive.
World Citizenship Award
The World Citizenship Award is awarded to people outside the

Movement who have contributed to a better world in at least
one of the following areas: Peace, Environment, Education, Food
and Nutrition, Environment, Health, and Culture and Heritage.
The WAGGGS World Citizenship Award was launched in 1996 as
21
part of the WAGGGS Building World Citizenship Triennial Theme
1996-2002.
The Award is presented to individuals outside the Movement
who have:

made an outstanding contribution to the building of a better

world
been a role model for young people
used her or his position to work towards bringing people
together across political, religious, economic or social divides.
The Award has so far been presented to thirteen world leaders.

The first woman to receive the World Citizenship Award was
Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland, in 1997 and, at the

time, new in her post as the High Commissioner for Human
Rights at the UN.
The award was presented to Mary Robinson at the launch of
the Building World Citizenship programme in 1997. In thanking
WAGGGS for the award, Mary Robinson had spoken of her
commitment to improving the circumstances of girls and
young women throughout the world. She praised the work of
WAGGGS.
Since completing her term as High Commissioner she has been
developing a new project, the Ethical Globalisation Initiative.
The EGI brings key stakeholders together in new alliances
to integrate concepts of human rights, gender sensitivity and
enhanced accountability into efforts to address global challenges
and governance shortcomings.
WAGGGS medals
The WAGGGS Medal is given to express gratitude to individuals

within the Movement who have given remarkable service of an
exceptional nature at both national and world levels to, and for
the benefit of, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl
Scouts.
Elspeth Henderson (IGG) from Ireland was awarded the
WAGGGS Silver Medal at the 33rd World Conference in South
Africa, in July 2008, for her extraordinary service to WAGGGS
for more than three decades.
FAO/WAGGGS Nutrition Medal
Every October the FAO/WAGGGS Nutrition Medal is awarded

to a Girl Guide/Girl Scout group for relevant work to eradicate
hunger and malnutrition in the world.
22
23
The award scheme was launched on World Food Day, 1995
to support the WAGGGS triennial theme, Building World
Citizenship, and to mark the 50th birthday of the United Nations
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
WAGGGS Member Organisations may propose individual or
group projects for consideration for the award, which aims to
highlight the Movements nutrition-related work throughout
the world and promote activities to eradicate hunger and
malnutrition.
GUIDING
O P P O RT U N IT I E S
24
I N T E R N AT I O N A L G U I D I N G
I S N OT J U S T A B O U T T R AV E L
25
W E C A N I N C L U D E A N I N T E R N AT I O N A L
DIMENSION IN OUR PROGR AMMES FOR ALL
SECTIONS.
Themed meetings to promote different International events

- e.g. the Millennium Development Goals, Olympics, World
Cup, International Peace - are only one way to do this.
26
T Y P E S O F I N T E R N AT I O N A L
EVENTS/EXPERIENCES
International Camps
Training Sessions organised by WAGGGS
Friendship Sessions at World Centres
WAGGGS Badges GAT Badge, Thinking Day, Biodiversity
Badge etc
Mascot Exchanges
Post Card Exchanges
E-learning training with WAGGGS
Linking up with other groups when travelling
Our greatest opportunity to promote the International

aspect of Guiding comes on World Thinking Day, 22nd
February.
Why 22nd February?
This was the birthday of the founder of Scouts and Guides,

Lord Robert Baden-Powell and, also, that of his wife Lady Olave
Baden-Powell and so is a suitable day to remember them and all
other members of the Guide and Scout movement around the
world.
Why Thinking Day?
27
This is a special day when all Girl Guides and Girl Scouts
around the world think of each other and give thanks for their
sister Guides and Scouts. Thinking Day began at the 4th World
conference in 1926 in the USA. In 1932, at the 7th World
Conference held in Poland, a Belgian delegate suggested that
since birthdays traditionally involve presents girls could show
their friendship and appreciation on Thinking Day by offering a
voluntary contribution to the World Association. This is how the
Thinking Day Fund began. The fund helps offer Girl Guiding/Girl
Scouting to more girls and young women throughout the world
and helps to develop Girl Guiding/Girl Scouting in less well off
countries.
To emphasise the Global aspect of Thinking day, members at the
30th World Conference here in Ireland (yes, the one that many
of you slaved away at but enjoyed and remember with fond
memories, we hope!) decided to change the name Thinking Day
to World Thinking Day.
You may also hear 22nd February referred to as Founders Day,
this is what the World Organisation of the Scout Movement
(WOSM) refers to Thinking Day as.
A R E YO U I N T E R E S T E D I N A P P LY I N G F O R A N
I N T E R N AT I O N A L E V E N T ?
There are many opportunities for members of CGI to travel

abroad and participate in international events, including camps,
seminars, training courses, and sessions at the world centres, all
of which are advertised. These guidelines have been compiled to
help you, if you are interested in attending an international event.
If you are interested in representing CGI at an international
seminar, fill in the application form and return it to International
Commissioner before the closing date.
It is important to remember:
Ensure you fulfil the particular requirements for an event

Ensure that deadline dates are adhered to
Be prepared to share your experiences and training upon
your return.
CGIs International Commissioner will
consider your application either:
a. In consultation with the CIGA Committee, if a joint

invitation is involved, or
b. In consultation with the appropriate CGI personnel, if a
selection is required where more then one application has
been received.
All joint invitations must be discussed at CIGA Committee
meetings and, together with the event deadlines; this will affect
the length of time taken to process applications.
You will be informed as soon as possible if your application has
been successful. To confirm your acceptance, you will normally
be required to forward a non-refundable deposit: 25/50/100
depending on the event.
28
Your application is then forwarded to the relevant event where

organisers make a final selection. Transport arrangements can
only be made upon official confirmation of acceptance from
event organisers.
Upon selection, meet with, and communicate with, the
International Commissioner to prepare for the event. (At this
point you will be given the International participation pack for
further information)
Event Participation Report Guidelines:
Upon your return from representing CGI at an international

event, a report and a short article for CGIs Guiders Link must
be completed and forwarded to the National Office (address
below) within 21 days. The text should cover all of the following
points:
29
An overall view on what the event theme was and the

program
What you feel you gained from the event on a personal
level?
What did you learn and how you will bring this into the
Association?
A list of any useful contacts you made at the event.
Please also include any other information you consider to be
relevant.
Include any photos that were taken at the event with your
article/report.
PL ANNING
YO U R
TR I P
30
YO U R F I R S T S T E P S
SHOULD BE:
N O. 1
D I S C U S S W I T H YO U R G RO U P W H E R E T H E Y
WOULD LIKE TO GO.
N O. 2
TA L K T O YO U R I N T E R N AT I O N A L
COMMISSIONER OR REGIONAL OUTDOOR
COMMISSIONER.
31
N O. 3
E N S U R E T H AT YO U H AV E L E A D E R S
W I T H R E Q U I R E D Q U A L I F I C AT I O N S F O R
U N D E R T A K I N G S U C H A T R I P.
N O. 4
S E E K A DV I C E F RO M L E A D E R S W H O H AV E B E E N
O N A S I M I L A R T R I P, A S K I F T H E Y W O U L D D O A
P R E S E N TAT I O N T O YO U R G R O U P
N O. 5
H O L D A P R E S E N TAT I O N F O R YO U R G R O U P A N D
I N V ITE PA R E NT S A LO N G TO H E L P G E T A N I D E A
OF HOW POPUL AR THE TRIP MIGHT BE .
PA S S P O RT & V I S A S
T I C K E T S & I T I N E R A RY
PHONE
CONSENT
FORMS
FIRST AID KIT

VAC C I N AT I O N S
UNIFORM
MEDICAL INSUR ANCE
& EHIC CARD
MONEY
E N T E RTA I N M E N T & D I S P L AY S
Passports
Check you have up-todate passports for every

member of the group; it is
recommended to request a
copy of passports along with
the deposit.
The group leader should
ONE
check theP Hexpiry
date of each
passport and ensure there
is at least 6 months validity
left on the passport after the
return date.
While a Fpassport
is not
IRST AID KIT
required to enter the UK,
some airlines require a
passport as their form of ID,
Ferry companies are also
starting to look for passports
as forms of ID so please
confirm if this is required
before booking.
Photocopy all your

documentation - passport,
visas, credit cards, certificate
of insurance, contact details
for your insurer. Leave one
copy with a contact person at
home and take another copy
with you. Keep the copies of
the passports
separate to the
passports themselves. In some
countries, visitors are required
to surrender passports at
hotels and campsites. When
leaving, a guider should check
that each guide has her own
passport. If anyone loses a
passport, the Irish Embassy
must be informed immediately
or the relevant embassy of the
passport holder. Locate the
O N S E N T or Consulate
nearestCEmbassy
FORMS
before departure.
MEDICAL I
& EHIC
34
Visas
It is important to check well

in advance if you require a visa
for the country you intend
to visit - as processing of
visa applications may take a
considerable amount of time.
Travelling with Under 18
It is important to check the

requirements of any countries
you intend to visit when
MO
traveling with those under 18.

Vaccinations
Vaccinations are
recommended or compulsory
for travel to some countries.
Advice and information
on health requirements of
individual countries may be
obtained from your doctor,
health board, vaccination
Clinic, Travel Agent, the
Embassy or consulate of the
country you intend to visit.
35
Cost: A charge is normally

made for the visit to the
doctor or clinic for the
vaccines, tablets required and
for vaccination
certificates
where necessary.
EHIC Cards
Within the EC and Switzerland

(except for the United
Kingdom) Irish Nationals can
avail of free medical treatment
by applying to their local
health board for an EHIC card
PHONE
at least one month in advance
of travel.
EC and allows the bearer

to avail of emergency
medical treatment and the
public medical facilities of
the country being visited.
All attendees must apply
for this card and provide
it or reference number to
the Guider in Charge for
reference, if required.
Money
It is possible to make cash

withdrawals from ATM
machines in most parts of
the World. Confirm what the
maximum daily withdrawal
amount is from an ATM for
the country being visited, for
the Taccount
held as this can
I C K E T S & I T I N E R A RY
vary from country to country
and bank to bank, some are
only 200 a day.
Money belts are a convenient
and secure way of carrying
documents.
Before traveling, it is
recommended that the group
CONSENT
leader Farranges
to have
ORMS
This is a certificate of
entitlement to benefit in
any member
country of the
FIRST AID KIT
ME
either a credit card or extra

funds available for use in an
emergency.
Insurance
You should ensure that as

an individual, or as a group
leader, that you or your group
has adequate insurance cover.
For example: tickets, money,
baggage, cancellation, delay,
personal accident, public
liability, special activities,
reduced expenses. Also,
check with the venue you
are traveling to regarding
their Insurance. Similarly, it
is important to check the
insurance details of providers
of activities that you may be
using while abroad.
The leader should take a copy
of the insurance form with her
and leave the original at home
in case a claim has to be made.
Medical Insurance
As the EHIC card only applies
to state health care schemes,

it does not include transport
back to Ireland, private
medical health insurance may
have to be considered.
When visiting Non-European
Community Countries,
adequate medical insurance
is strongly recommended.
Check with your Travel Agent
the amount of insurance you
will need and include enough
cover to allow for the extra
cost of traveling home in an
emergency.
First Aid
See Appendix 3 for a

Suggested First Aid Kit.
There should be a designated
First Aid Person for the trip,
this should be someone
different to the Guider In
Charge of the trip.
Prior to travel, find out where
the nearest doctor/hospital is
to your location.
Encourage all members of
the group to carry a basic
first aid kit. (With or without
medication, depending on the
MEDICAL INS
UR ANCE
& EHIC CARD
UNIFORM
36
CONSENT
FORMS
age and where the groups are

traveling to).
Consent Forms
37
All members under 18 must

submit CGI Health andM O N E Y
to Camp forms to
VAC C I N ATPermission
IONS
the Leader at least two weeks
before travel. It is a good idea
to ask guiders/adults traveling
to also fill in the health form
and place in individual sealed
envelopes, only to be opened
in case of emergency. These
should be returned to the
adults upon completion of
the trip. The leader in charge
retains these forms for the
duration of the trip.
Uniform
It is important to remember
that when participating in
international events/camps,
you are representing the
Association and that uniform
should be in perfect order.
All participants must
travel to and from the
international event, in uniform.
International neckerchiefs can
only be worn if participating
in an International Camp,
attending a World Centre
E N T E RTA I N M E N T & D I S P L AY S
session or if selected to
represent CGI at an event.
Irish Entertainment
and displays
At international events, groups

are usually asked to present
an entertainment item typical
of their country. This should
be planned and rehearsed
before departure and the
necessary instruments, music
and costumes should be
taken along.You may be asked
to serve Irish food - again,
this needs to be planned in
advance, taking into account
the refrigeration and cooking
facilities available. If the group
is asked to put up a display
about Ireland you will need
to bring suitable posters,
postcards, photos, leaflets etc.
If asked for a display on the
association, the International
Commissioner as a list of
the material is available upon

request from the National
Office.
Phone
When bringing a mobile

phone, ensure that roaming
has been activated in
advance of travel and check
if your service provider has
a roaming agreement setup
in the cities/countries to be
visited. International phone
cards can also prove to be a
cost efficient way of making
calls when abroad. It may be
advisable to give a contact
number for someone in
Ireland to parents and then
this person can contact the

Guider In Charge as coverage
and call costs could be an
issue depending on where is
being visited.
Itinerary
Compile a list of travel

arrangements. If there are
connecting flights, make
sure enough time is left
between flights as these
can often include Terminal
changes. It is important
that each participant and
parent has details of all travel
arrangements.
38
MEDICAL I
& EHIC
C G I S R E G U L AT I O N S I N R E L AT I O N T O
I N T E R N AT I O N A L T R AV E L
The Guider in Charge of bringing a group abroad must have the

following:

Valid Outdoor Camp Warrant, including valid First Aid

Certificate (Required for indoor or outdoor events abroad)
The Guider in Charge should have experience of

international travel and should have travelled abroad as part
of a CGI group previously.
Relevant to Brign, Guide and Ranger travel
39
A minimum of 3 Guiders must travel with the group.

Adult to child ratios must be observed.
Brigins 1-to-6; Guides 1-to-8; Rangers 1-to-8.
Adult helpers must form no more than one third of the adult
number.
The Regional Commissioner for Outdoor Activities and
International Commissioner must be provided with relevant
camp application form, including full itinerary, at least 3
months prior to travel.
All program activities must comply with insurance cover for
the association and, where necessary, extra insurance must
be undertaken.
A full list of names, next of kin contact numbers and dates
of birth of all attending the trip must be left with another
leader not travelling on the trip. Alternatively, this list can be
left with the International Commissioner or National office,
if requested.
Full health and permission forms must be completed for all
children.
All necessary permission to camp forms must be completed.
All members of the group must be registered members of

the association.
Additional Notes per Section:
Cygnets
Guides
Cygnets are not permitted to

travel outside Ireland.
At least one of the Guiders

must hold a current Outdoor
Warrant
Brigins
Rangers
Brigin Guides may only travel
out of the country as part of a
unit trip.
No Brigin Guide Group may
travel on their own.
Brigin Groups may only travel
within Europe.
Full health and consent forms

must be completed for all
Rangers less than 18 years of
age. See Consent Forms info
re over 18s. Please refer to the
Safeguarding Policy for over
18s.
One of the Brigin Guiders must

hold a warrant independent of
any other warrant holders in
the group.
40
GUIDER CHECKLIST
This is a suggested Guider Checklist, it obviously changes
depending on the event:
41
Camp application forms

submitted to Regional
Outdoor Commissioner
with all details 3 months
prior to departure (list
of those attending and
proposed programme to
be included)
Money - local currency,

Visa or Mastercard Card
etc.
Passports (and copies

of relevant pages from
passports of those in
group) as well as visa, if
required
Spare luggage labels
Address and telephone

number of nearest Irish
Embassy
Phrase book
Copy of itinerary with list

of connections
Copy of insurance
certificate and Insurers
Next of Kin contact details
contact details
left with another leader or
member of diocese that is CGI parental permission
not travelling
form for Guides along with
health forms, including the
Tickets (individual/group)
addresses of parents for
everyday contact.
International certificates
of vaccination if travelling
EHIC forms for travel to
further afield
EU and Switzerland
Maps of route and local

area, including addresses of
accommodation etc.
First Aid Kit
Badges, Swaps & Flag

Gift for host
Upon return, send in a
short report and some
photos to the guiders link
in advance
Taking medicines out of the
country, are they allowed in
the country?
Existing medical conditions
and medication
General Health issues

when travelling
Have a dental check up
Consult your Doctor well
Carry a first aid kit
B E F O R E YO U S E T O U T
Before you set out to travel anywhere in the world, check
the health requirements for your destination.
Look at the potential risks and plan the precautions you need
to take, both before you go and once you are away. These will
depend not only on the countries you may be visiting but which
parts, for how long, at what time of the year, and where you will
be staying. Camping, for example, presents different potential
health problems to staying in a hostel.
You can get more information on all these points from your
travel agent, the Embassy or High Commission of the countries
concerned, or from a specialist travel clinic.
C O N S U LT YO U R D O C T O R / T R AV E L C E N T R E
W E L L I N A DVA N C E
You should consult your doctor at least two months before your
42
43
departure, for advice and to arrange immunisations. Some of

these cannot be given at the same time. Some take time to be
effective. Immunisation against Hepatitis B, for example, can take
six months to give full protection.
However, see your doctor even if you are going at short notice
some protection may be better than none. Tell your doctor
where you are going, and that you are taking children with you, if
this is for a group trip. This is particularly important if they have
not had their full course of childhood immunisations.

If you need anti-malaria medication, your doctor will advise on
which is most appropriate. If you require prescribed medicines
while abroad, check on their availability at your destination since
your doctor can normally only prescribe a limited quantity. If the
medication cannot be obtained where you are going, you will
have to purchase supplies at home.
Make sure to get the relevant information from your doctor
regarding the diseases that are prevalent in the country being
visited and information on how to recognise/treat them, etc.
Taking Medicines out of the country
If you want to take any sort of medicine with you either

prescribed or bought from a pharmacist find out if there are
any restrictions on taking it in and out of Ireland or the country
you are visiting. Ask the relevant Embassy.
Always carry medicines in a correctly labelled container, as issued
by the pharmacist. Otherwise take a letter from your doctor or a
personal health record card giving details of the drug prescribed
in case you need it to get you through Customs. Remember that
some medicines available over the counter in Ireland may be
controlled in other countries, and vice versa.
Existing medical conditions and medication
Keep a written record on your person of any medical condition

affecting you, such as angina pectoris, diabetes and haemophilia,
and the proper names not just the trade names of any
medication you are taking.
H AV E A D E N TA L C H E C K U P
If you have any doubts about your teeth, or you plan to be away
44
a long time, see your dentist. It may be difficult and expensive to

obtain dental treatment at your destination.
C A R RY A F I R S T A I D K I T
Be sure to include some insect repellent and antiseptic cream.

Water-sterilisation tablets will take up little space and could be
useful.
REDUCING THE RISK OF DV T
DURING THE JOURNEY
Prolonged immobility on long journeys, whether by plane, train

or car, can lead to deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in the
leg). Move your feet around, or get up and walk around regularly
if you can. And avoid dehydration - take regular non-alcoholic
drinks.
45
No matter where you are going to travel, always check that your
insurance cover is adequate to meet whatever expenses you
are likely to have to incur. Always examine the small print of the
policy. And talk to your insurer if in any doubt.
AP P E NDI X
46
A P P E N D I X 1:
U S E F U L WAG G G S R E S O U RC E S
A L L AVA I L A B L E O N :
W W W.WAG G G S . O R G
Games Go Global badge curriculum
47
The Games Go Global Badge will help Girl Guides and Girl
Scouts around the world learn more about the Games and the
UKs incredible sporting and cultural heritage.
Biodiversity Challenge Badge
WAGGGS/FAO/CBD Biodiversity Challenge Badge curriculum.

Set of educational resources on biodiversity, which will help
teachers and youth leaders develop a programme of learning,
participation and action.
GAT Badge curriculum
The WAGGGS GAT Badge is an activity pack that helps children

and young people to learn about the MDGs and take action on
the issues that affect them and their communities. There is a
wide range of activities for your members to choose from, and
they can decide which level of the badge they would like to work
towards.
Food security and Climate Change

challenge Badge curriculum
WAGGGS and the FAO have developed a Food Security and

Climate Change Challenge Badge to make young people aware
of the issues of environmental protection and food security and
inspire them to be an active part of solving the problems.
Advocacy toolkit
A Toolkit on Advocacy to introduce and strengthen the advocacy

dimension in Girl Guide and Girl Scout programmes.
Surf Smart Badge
Surf Smart, a non-formal educational curriculum about staying

safe online, was developed by WAGGGS in partnership with Ring
Deutscher Pfadfinderinnenverbnde (RDP), Scouts et Guides
de France and Girlguiding UK. Surf Smart helps inform young
people about the importance of staying safe online and how
they can protect themselves. The curriculum includes activities
which encourage users to identify issues and find solutions most
relevant to their own context, as well as activities that expose
common issues girls and young women face with respect to
internet safety.
HIV and AIDS Training Toolkit
The HIV and AIDS Training Toolkit is a collation of best practice

thinking about how girls and young women can help in the fight
against HIV and AIDS.
Regions can use this training toolkit to equip leaders in their
organisation with the knowledge, experience and tools to
support girls and young women in combating this disease.
48
The Right to food
The cartoon book and activity guide The Right to Food: A

Window on the World, produced by WAGGGS and FAO, are
about the right of every human being to be free from hunger and
the responsibility of all members of society to respect, protect
and promote that right
Guiding Links
49
Irish Girl Guides: www.irishgirlguides.ie/

Girl Guiding UK: www.girlguiding.org.uk
WAGGGS: www.wagggs.org
Europe Region WAGGGS: europe.wagggs.org
Scouting Ireland: www.scouts.ie
WOSM: www.scouts.org
Useful Links
Department of Foreign Affairs: www.dfa.ie

European Health Insurance Card: www.ehic.ie
Lonely Planet: www.lonelyplanet.com
Leargas: www.leargas.ie (assists with funding exchanges)
Trip Advisor: www.tripadvisor.com
Tropical Medical Advice: www.tmb.ie/destinations
APPENDIX 2:
SUGGESTED KIT LIST
K I T L I S T C O N S I D E R AT I O N S
Climate
Culture
Quantity Is there access to washing facilities?
Luggage allowances - Will there be an excess baggage
charge?
Specialist equipment Can these be distributed among the
participants or hired at the destination?
Purpose of project Is it to meet the locals or undertake a
service project, trek, sports, sight-seeing?
Valuables Will you have rules or guidelines about valuables?
How are they to be kept?
Electrical Items Keep to a minimum and remember plug
adaptors, if required
ESSENTIALS
Address list and list of important contacts or numbers

Backpack, suitcase, sports bag (something to pack everything
in)
Paper or Notebook
Passport (check validity!)
Pencils, Pens
Tickets and itinerary (airline, train, bus, accommodation
bookings etc.)
Visa
Travel Insurance
Passport photos
Photocopies of important documents in case they are stolen
50
FINANCES
ATM card (Maestro or Cirrus logos on the back are most

widely accepted)
Calculator or currency converter
Cash in the local currency of your arrival destination
Credit card (Visa or Mastercard are most widely accepted)
Money belt (You cant be too safe in some places)
CLOTHES
51
Uniform (formal & Informal depending on Event)

Boots, Runners, Sandals, shower shoes
Rain Jacket & Leggings
Jumper, sweater or fleece
Light jacket
Long or thermal underwear (weather dependent)
Long sleeve shirts (weather dependent)
T-shirts
Trousers/Shorts/Skirts
Pyjamas/Sleepwear
Socks/Underwear
Swimming gear & Sarong, if wanted
CLOTHES ACCES SORIES
A sun hat / Bandana

Belt
Gloves or mittens, warm hat, scarf (weather dependent)
Sewing kit
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Safety pins
Anti-bacterial cream
Comb or brush, Cotton buds, Hair products, Lip balm,
Moisturizer, Deodorant, Soap, Toothbrush, toothpaste, sanitary
products, tissues
Contact lens solution/container or glasses
Earplugs/Eye Mask
Sunscreen and after sun cream
Talcum powder - Useful against prickly heat, in shoes, on
sticky zippers and more
Own First Aid Kit
OTHER ITEM S
Backpack rain cover

Camera and batteries
Combination or key locks
Duct tape - Fixes everything!
Eating utensils, incl Cup & Spork, if required
Flashlight or torch - Dont forget the batteries
Badges/Gifts are always appreciated while travelling
Guidebooks, or print outs from online travel guides
Inflatable travel pillow
International Student Identification Card - for discounts
worldwide
Laundry detergent (if facilities available)
Maps (incl. small map of the world to show where you are
from)
Plastic bags
Sleep sheet / Sleeping bag / Sleeping mat (if required)
Toilet paper/Toilet Wipes
Towels - the quick drying versions are very handy!
Universal sink plug
Watch
Wet wipes/Baby wipes - Handy for cleaning hands or
washing yourself in absense of a shower
Ziplock bags - The freezer ones are usually the best
Suggested First Aid Kit
A first aid travel kit should contain the following:
52
A P P E N D I X 3:
SUGGESTED FIRST AID KIT
53
Panadol (Headache)
Bisodol (Indigestion)
Simple Antibiotic (infection
or fever)
Kwells (Travel Sickness)
Immodium (diarrhoea)
Dioralyte (rehydration)
Insect Repellent
Antisin (insect bites)
Sunscreen
Lotion (treatment of
sunburn)
Savlon (antiseptic cream)
Thermometer
Scissors
Crepe Bandage
Triangle Bandages
Gauze
Assorted Plasters
Surgical Tape
Tweezers
Safety Pins
Gloves
Tick pen (depending on
where you are travelling to)
If traveling to the Tropics
- salt tablets and water
purifying tablets
Yellow Fever certificate or
International Certificate of
Vaccination
REMEMBER
There should be a designated first Aid Person for the trip.

Prior to travel this person find out where the nearest
doctor/hospital is.
Encourage all members of the group to carry a basic first aid

kit. (With or without medication depending on the age and
where the groups are traveling to).
Ensure copies of prescriptions are taken.
N OT E S
54
N OT E S
55
N OT E S
56
CGI National Office

12 Clanwilliam Terrace
Grand Canal Quay
Dublin 2
Tel: 01 661 9566
Fax: 01 676 5691
E: admin@girlguidesireland.ie
CGI Northern Region Office

St. Francis De Sale
Beechmount Drive
Belfast BT12 7LU
Tel: 028 9031 3639
Fax: 028 9031 3639
E: admin@girlguidesireland.ie
This publication is funded by the Depar tment of

Children and Youth Affairs and the National Lottery.

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I N T E R N AT I O N A L

develop their full potential as responsible citizens of the world.

Our Chalet in Switzerland, Sangam in India, Pax Lodge in UK and

The Irish Girl Guides, already a member of WAGGGS at this

There is a pilot project underway to establish a different type

Visiting a World Centre brings international friendship, fun,

Each centre offers activities designed to give members of the

OUR CHALET SWITZERL AND

Our Chalet was the first

All members of WAGGGS and

The main building has rooms

During the summer, Our Chalet

Since its beginning in 1966,

Insect repellent is also a must.

The event season focuses on

Our Cabaa opened in

differ throughout the year.

Programmes at our Cabaa

Our Cabaa, AP 4-126,

There have been three

also long-term accommodation

Pax Lodge provides

Distinguished themselves through outstanding service to

The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts presents

The Olave Award is given to local Girl Guide or Girl Scout

The World Citizenship Award is awarded to people outside the

made an outstanding contribution to the building of a better

The Award has so far been presented to thirteen world leaders.

Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland, in 1997 and, at the

The WAGGGS Medal is given to express gratitude to individuals

Every October the FAO/WAGGGS Nutrition Medal is awarded

Themed meetings to promote different International events

Our greatest opportunity to promote the International

This was the birthday of the founder of Scouts and Guides,

There are many opportunities for members of CGI to travel

Ensure you fulfil the particular requirements for an event

a. In consultation with the CIGA Committee, if a joint

Your application is then forwarded to the relevant event where

Upon your return from representing CGI at an international

An overall view on what the event theme was and the

FIRST AID KIT

Check you have up-todate passports for every

Photocopy all your

It is important to check well

It is important to check the

traveling with those under 18.

Cost: A charge is normally

Within the EC and Switzerland

EC and allows the bearer

It is possible to make cash

either a credit card or extra

You should ensure that as

As the EHIC card only applies

to state health care schemes,

See Appendix 3 for a

age and where the groups are

All members under 18 must

At international events, groups

the material is available upon

When bringing a mobile

this person can contact the

Compile a list of travel

The Guider in Charge of bringing a group abroad must have the