Southampton scout with autism wins Bear Grylls award

Jasper Curtis, 14, who lives in Bassett, was honoured with the special award at the 14th Highfield Scout Hut during their end of year ceremony.

The prestigious award is handed out sparingly – as it’s given to Scouts who have shown “resilience, tenacity, and courage – in other words, that ‘never give up’ spirit”.

Jasper told the Echo: “It came as a surprise but it’s something I’m very proud of.

“I wasn’t sure whether I was going to finish with scouts as I’ve been doing it for four years, so to be recognised in this way is amazing and I think I might join the Explorer Scouts in the future.”

Jasper suffers with autism, and as a result suffers from sensory overplay. The condition means that Jasper finds noises that would be normal for most especially noisy, as well as having difficulty with food textures, body temperature regulation, and even bright colours can be dazzling for him.

The fact Jasper has overcome the regular obstacles that Scouts have to face, such as camping outside at night and learning how to administer first aid, along with his own unique challenges meant he was a worthy recipient of the prestigious award, forever linked with famous adventurer – Bear Grylls.

READ MORE: Pictures of local Scouts through the years 

Jasper’s mum, Alison, told the Echo it was a “proud mum moment” to see her son recognised in front of his friends and family.

Jasper Curtis with his award (Image: Matt Davey)

She said: “It’s a proud moment for everyone and it’s the first time the Scout Group has given out the award.

“It’s a big deal and Jasper has had to overcome quite a lot, so it was brilliant to see the smile on his face. We even had a special presentation, where the Scout leader, Olii, handed out the award and he’s always been really supportive.

“We’ve had great fun. I even think back to when we were in lockdown and we were having virtual camps, so we were camping underneath ironing boards and dining room tables!

“It’s been an amazing part of Jasper’s life and given him a focus which I think has really helped.”

Presented with the Bear Grylls Never Give Up badge at his end of year Scouts ceremony, Jasper was also awarded the Chief Scouts Gold Award – accumulating all his six activity badges and nine challenge badges.