LONDON--The Scout Association, the UK's largest co-ed volunteer movement, is reviewing its communications support. 

The Holmes Report understands that a number of agencies have submitted proposals for a six-figure brief that encompasses public affairs, policy and reputation counsel.

The Scout Association, which currently counts more than half a million youth members in the country, has previously worked with Portland. A spokesman said the review is "part of our normal pattern of making sure the Scout Association gets best value from our suppliers."

The 105-year old movement recently hit the headlines when it announced that it was considering an alternative oath for atheists.

Membership in the association has grown steadily in recent years thanks in part to PR campaigns that have helped boost awareness of scouting among minority groups in the UK. 

The Scout Association has also led some high-profile public affairs programmes, successfully campaigning for protection from the "rain tax" and  against rent and rates increases.

Last year the Scout Association relaunched Scout Community Week, positioning it in line with David Cameron's Big Society agenda.