Thomas has written the statement below, and I would just like to add a few other things. - Despite being a Young Carer, Thomas has taken on the challenge of fundraising for the World Scout Jamboree (WSJ) with gusto, making sure the local team of 16 people have events to fundraise at and finding innovative ways to share Scouting with his local community. All this while meeting his other daily responsibilities, including school. It will be amazing for him to attend this well deserved, once in a lifetime experience.

Many thanks to all those who support him.

My name's Thomas and I'm really proud to have been selected as one of only 3500 Scouts to represent the UK at the 24th World Scout Jamboree in West Virginia USA in 2019.

The cost is about £3,772 - this will cover the cost for me to go but also subsidises Scouts from poorer countries to attend who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford to go.

I have already been getting stuck in with setting myself new challenges, working hard to raise awareness and funds through, sausage sizzles, cake sales and even setting up a band. Not only have we been raising funds we've also made new friends and finding out just what we're capable of.

I set myself the challenge of canoeing for 3 days down the river Wye, and although my arms ached I achieved my goals and am looking forward to setting new ones.

When I first began my application to attend WSJ I was a bit apprehensive. Generally I'm not very good at mixing with people and I struggle with the unknown because I have autism. I have never let it hold me back and have always found my own way to achieve things, although it can make things more challenging. I hope that my adventure inspires others and realise that anything can be possible.

I hope that you will support me on my journey and I look forward to sharing my experiences along the way. Thank you for reading.