Girlguiding was set up in 1973 in this town to follow the Guiding Association principles to help girls and young women of all ages to achieve their full physical, intellectual and social potential in a safe enjoyable environment. Our rainbows, brownies, guides and rangers become part of a group of girls who help each other and are friendly. They develop new skills while having fun. They learn to think for themselves, and understand a little more about the world, its people and cultures.

South Woodham Ferrers has a population of 20,000 and supports a very healthy membership in girlguiding. We provide a safe meeting place for girls and young women and as they grow they help pass on the values and experiences they learn with us. We provide activities that they would not perhaps experience elsewhere, and help the girls appreciate the environment we live in. Also as a local organisation we support many local events e.g Remembrance Sunday, the Christmas Fayre and Village Hall Fete.

Our girls and young women will tell you that being a rainbow, brownie or guide was an important part of their life and left a lasting impression. Our leaders gain many benefits and in later life, adults have told us that many of the skills they gained in guiding matched those employers were looking for. In particular these were working as part of a small team, resourcefulness, creativity and working with young people.