East Cleveland District Scout Council
Annual Report and Accounts 2024 - 2025
East Cleveland District Scout Council
EAST CLEVELAND DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL
| President: | Vacant | |
|---|---|---|
| District Lead Volunteers | Sean Champion | |
| Ben Fountain | ||
| District Youth Leads | Luke Powell | |
| Trustees: | ||
| Ex Officio: | ||
| District Chair | Stephen Horner | Ex-officio all sub-committees |
| District Lead Volunteer | Ben Fountain | Ex-officio all sub-committees |
| District Youth Lead | Luke Powell | |
| District Treasurer | Lisa Sidgwick | |
| Nominated: | ||
| Mark Lightfoot | ||
| Sue Pinder | ||
| Paul Cawthorn | ||
| Elected: | ||
| District Lead Volunteer | Sean Champion | |
| Kettleness Chair | Michael Fountain | |
| BANKERS: | HSBC Bank plc | The Co-operative Bank – |
| 12Westgate, | Business | |
| Guisborough, | PO Box 4931 | |
| TS14 6BE | Swindon | |
| SN4 4PL | ||
| INDEPENDENT EXAMINER: | Rachel Wilmot | |
| SCOUT ASSOCIATION REGISTRATION: | 015603 | |
| CHARITY REGISTRATION: | ||
| Charity Name: | EAST CLEVELAND SCOUT | DISTRICT COUNCIL |
| Registration Number: | 1015637 | |
| Contact Name and Address: | Sean Champion | |
| 30 East Crescent | ||
| Loftus | ||
| Saltburn-by-the-Sea | ||
| TS13 4LB |
East Cleveland District Scout Council
Trustees Annual Report for Structure, Governance and Management
The District's governing documents are those of the The Scout Association. They consist of a Royal Charter, which in turn gives authority to the Bye Laws of the Association and The Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association. The District is a trust established under its rules which are common to all Scouts. The Trustees are appointed in accordance with the Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association.
The District is managed by the District Trustee Board, the members of which are the ‘Charity Trustees’ of the Scout District which is an educational charity. As charity trustees they are responsible for complying with legislation applicable to charities. This includes the registration, keeping proper accounts and making returns to the Charity Commission as appropriate.
The Committee consists of two independent representatives, Chair and Treasurer, together with one District Lead Volunteer, District Youth Lead, nominated and elected members which meets 4-6 times a year.
District trustees must act collectively, and in the best interests of its members to:
-
Comply with the Policy, Organisation and Rules of Scouts.
-
Make sure buildings and equipment owned by and/or used by the District are working well.
-
Look after the District finances.
-
Have the right insurance for people, property, and equipment.
-
Make sure there are sufficient resources for Scouts to operate. This includes, but is not limited to supporting recruitment, other adult support, and fundraising activities.
-
Promote and support the development of Scouts in the local area.
-
Follow POR, key policies (including safety, safeguarding, data protection, and equality, diversity and inclusion), and charity regulations.
-
Make sure that a positive image of Scouts exists in the local community.
-
Appoint and manage the operation of any Trustee Board sub-teams, including appointing a sub-team leader to lead the sub-teams.
-
Make sure that young people are meaningfully involved in decision-making at all levels within the District.
-
The opening, closure and amalgamation of Groups, Explorer Scout Units, Scout Network and Scout Active Support Units in the District as necessary.
-
Appoint and manage the operation of an Appointments Advisory Committee, including appointing an Appointments Committee Chair to lead it.
-
Supervising the administration of Groups, particularly in relation to finance and the trusteeship of property.
-
Appoint Administrators, Advisers, and Co-opted trustees.
-
Approve the Annual Report and Annual Accounts after their examination by an appropriate auditor, independent examiner or scrutineer.
-
Present the Annual Report and Annual Accounts to the Scout Council at the Annual General Meeting; file a copy with the County Trustee Board; and if a registered charity, to submit them to the appropriate charity regulator.
-
Maintain confidentiality with regard to appropriate Trustee Board business.
East Cleveland District Scout Council
-
Where staff are employed, act as a responsible employer in accordance with Scouting’s values and relevant legislation.
-
Make sure line management responsibilities for employed staff are clearly established and communicated.
The District has in place systems of internal controls that are designed to provide reasonable assurance against material mismanagement or loss, these include 2 signatories for all payments and a comprehensive insurance policies to ensure that insurable risks are covered.
Objectives and Activities
The objectives of the District are as a unit of the Scout Association. The Aim of The Scout Association is to promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potentials, as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local national and international communities. The method of achieving the Aim of the Association is by providing an enjoyable and attractive scheme of progressive training, based on the Scout Promise and Law and guided by adult leadership.
The progressive Training Programme operates successfully through all Sections in the District, ensuring the provision of varied and thematic activities. Experiences based on a varied activities programme has ensured all young people are achieving their potentials.
The District meets the Charity Commission’s public benefit criteria under both the advancement of education and the advancement of citizenship or community development headings.
The trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charities Commission on public benefit in deciding what activities the charity should undertake.
East Cleveland District Scout Council
Financial Review
The District's policy on reserves is to hold sufficient resources to continue the charitable activities of the District. The District Executive Committee considers that the District should hold a sum equivalent to 12 months running costs, circa £11k.
The District's Income and Expenditure is small and as a consequence does not have sufficient funds to invest in longer-term investments such as stocks and shares. The District has therefore adopted a low risk strategy to the investment of its funds. All funds are held in cash using only mainstream banks. The District Executive regularly monitors the levels of bank balances and the interest rates received to ensure the District obtains maximum value and income from its banking arrangements. Occasionally this may involve using an account that requires a period of notice before funds may be withdrawn, before doing so the District Executive considers the cash flow requirements.
Approved by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by:
Sean Champion Ben Fountain Stephen Horner District Lead Volunteer District Lead Volunteer District Chair
East Cleveland District Scout Council
Annual Accounts 2024 – 2025
Eds1 clei.e1od DiJlriL'I SL'OHI COU,{1 East Cleveland District Scout Council Receipts foi the year ended 31. March 2025 2tWW25 T•tsl T MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTIONS 18,414.00 (35.174.) { 16,760.00) 14,812.(Kl (15.990.CKI) (l,178.C) less: PaKI 2,415.CM) 2,241.(Kl INVESTMENT INCOME RECEIVED Bank AcCnt S7Aitch (Dinct) Contra in payments) 21,127.84 9,039.47 9,039.47 21.127.84 DONATIONS I GF14NTS The Scclrt Asy)oatw ESC Lottery Fund Miscellaneous 7.(K)O.CKI 2.IXJ.CK) 3,OfA). 3,(KlO.(X) 9,120.(MI ACTIVITIES Trainir Seeonee L•r Fees Di8lrict Events 19,964.22 19,375.(X) crt• SccArtg Y<xry Lern 1.00 20.360.22 19.475.CKI OTHER INCcE B&e sales {KetUene88) B8dgthecker saleg 120.22 92.65 5,023.33 5,854.02 EryMrThnt Hire Miscelleneo 5,183.55 5,966.67 Suth Inc£The TOTAL RECEIPTS FI1 THE YEAR £ 41,446.61 £ 38.544.14
CleveknnJDistTtLt C()urtLil East Cleveland District Scout Council Payments for the year ended 31 March 2025 202&2025 202&2025 PREMISES (SeeuKe Lair) Rent 317.01 Rates Ublibes kn8wance Bud¢kng Maintenance 139.n 2,358.39 1.639.83 4.142.98 2074.25 10.672.17 134.63 4,432.74 429.84 7,575. 12,811.51 DCINATIONS I GRANTS ACTIVITIES Tramir#J Dislnct Everts 8eaver s¢ts 2.005.C 448.51 505. Cub Sc(Ats scrts 4,143.13 5TT.50 7.161.64 665.) EXPLCXRER PAYMENT TO DISTRICT 1.012.(X) 1.012.(X) FUND RAISING EXPENSES ADMINESTABLISHMENT EXPENSES Ad*$tlshftXnI 157.2S 870.IXI 1.00 157.25 970. TRUSTEES EXFENSES 705.50 OTHER EXPENSES 256.47 961.97 569.S) 569.50 OTHER EXPENDrruRE 789.45 367.75 Exptsw CkXhing EXpIc OSM fee 43. 4,586.38 Dothd ¢k)trM'ng 332. 5,681.81 6,450.10 charges {Kete$s) (t8 (8adge81 74.80 79.( 75.60
Eds1 clei.e1od DiJlriL'I SL'OHI COU,{1 charge {C¢xmcll Bwlk charp {ExFkners) 15.40 42.80 810.02 21,127.84 134.50 Bar Ac¢xxmt Sitth 34.804.09 6.855.42 TOTAL PAYMENTS FOR TrIE YEAR £ S3.757.12 £ 22.883.93
CleveknnJDistTtLt C()urtLil East Cleveland District Scout Council Statement of Assets & Liab11rt for the Ye ended 31 Maich 2025 MONETARY ASSETS Bank CuThent Ac¢<)unt 19.25S.02 37.215.64 202.40 Disthct ESU 343.00 4ekl in District Accc CLO Scouts 622.46 Beaver Scwts 1st BrOtt SG 555.94 9039.45 38.8.98 642.18 34.123. 1,209.64 11,409.72 12.857.77 Ca•h in hoThJ 36.97 71,6S2.92 £ 83,963.43 £13.50 £o.c £13.50 B•dge sK*ks (resale £3,239.67 £2,087.66 £54.50 £2,142.16 £3,239.67 EqUInt DtrICt £D.C £o.c £0. £0. £o.c £0. ¥1 Beaver Sc(xrts yi ScfArt8 yi £o.c LIABILtnES "sth"ct has rn halxht
East Cleveland District Scout Council
Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of East Cleveland Scout Council
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of District for the year ended 31st March 2025.
Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of East Cleveland Scout Council
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of District for the year ended 31[st] March 2025
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity’s trustees of the East Cleveland Scout Council you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).
I report in respect of my examination of the East Cleveland Scout Council accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act. In carrying out my examination I have followed all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.
Basis of Examiner’s Report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the general directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts. The process undertaken does not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair’ view – the report is limited to those matters set out below.
Independent examiner’s statement
I have completed my examination. No material matter has come to my attention that gives me reasonable cause to believe that:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the East Cleveland Scout Council as required by section 130 of the Act; or that
-
the accounts do not accord with those records.
I confirm that there are no matters to which your attention should be drawn to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Signed: Name: Rachel Wilmot
Address: 1 Abercorn Close, Redcar, TS10 2TX Date: 7[th] July 2025
East Cleveland District Scout Council
District Reports
District Chair
From the meetings I have attended and the communications I have read the East Cleveland District scouts are in a very healthy position. There has been several very well supported district events that have been very successful with all age groups benefiting from these events.
Our two District Lead Volunteers; Sean and Ben, continue to work energetically and tirelessly in their roles and I would like to take this opportunity to record my thanks and the thanks of the district to them both.
May I also take this opportunity to thank Lisa Sidgwick in her role as District Treasurer in looking after the accounts and keeping us on a secure footing, and to Sue Pinder for taking the minutes at the Trustees meetings in the absence of a district secretary.
I would like to thank all the District Trustees not only for the work that they put in but for the support they have given to me since I took on this role.
Finally, a big thank you to all the leaders and volunteers throughout the district once again for all the time effort you have all contributed.
Steve Horner – District Chair
District Lead Volunteers Report
In 2024, a major milestone was reached with the announcement of the merger between Redcar & Eston District and East Cleveland District. This decision marks a transformative step forward, creating a unified District that will enhance efficiency and strengthen support for group growth and programme development. Collaboration between the two Districts has already increased, and although some challenges remain before the merger is officially completed, we are moving forward as one cohesive District.
The year also brought significant growth, with youth membership increasing by 35 members (9.4%) across the District, an incredible achievement, especially considering that County-wide growth stood at 3.2% and nationally it was ~1%. While we have not yet returned to pre-Covid numbers, this upward trajectory signals strong progress.
Recognition of achievements was high, with 108 top awards presented, ranging from Acorn to Diamond, including one King Scout Award. Notably, 17 Platinum and 3 Diamond awards were earned, the highest number in several years and thanks to District organised expeditions. In addition, we are now offering all levels of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, led by Lauren Greenwood, ensuring more opportunities for young people within the District.
Another exciting development was the introduction of a joint District and County badge, which preserves original designs while incorporating a new yellow border around the county badge. The entire design sits on a blue background with a red border, proudly reflecting the District’s colours.
December 2024 saw the rollout of My Membership, the new adult volunteer membership system alongside a fresh learning platform. A key aspect of this launch was the updated safety training, which all adult volunteers except non-members must complete. We extend
East Cleveland District Scout Council
our gratitude to those who have undertaken the training promptly.
Each month, we receive compliance reports from HQ, and while occasional flags have appeared, our goal remains 100% compliance. Given the minimal number of instances, we believe this target is well within reach.
To all our incredible adult volunteers, Thank you for the time, energy, and heart you give to Scouting. Your dedication helps shape young lives, build confidence, and create unforgettable adventures. Whether you're leading activities, organising events, or simply being a supportive presence, your impact is immeasurable. We would like to give a special thank you to the District trustees, our auditor Rachel and the programme team for their support and going above and beyond this year.
Sean Champion & Ben Fountain – District Lead Volunteers
District Youth Lead Report
As the District Youth Lead, this is my first report having only been in position for 5 months at the time of writing this report. It’s been inspiring to watch young people across the district step up, voice ideas, and take active roles in shaping their Scouting experience. As Youth Lead, I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand how our youth-led approach continues to grow, with Young Leaders leading initiatives, making decisions, and bringing energy to every corner of our programme.
We placed a strong focus on the YouShape Award, helping young people recognise the impact they’re already making and encouraging them to go even further. Young Leaders who attended the training weekend achieved their Central badges. The Award has provided a structured yet flexible way for our members to understand the importance of youth voice in Scouting—and it’s brilliant to see them take that responsibility seriously.
A key highlight has been the conversations I’ve had with young people about the future of our district. I’ve had informal discussions, asking young people what they value most and where they feel our district could improve. Their suggestions were thoughtful and exciting - ranging from more adventurous programming to greater involvement in district events.
As we move into the next year, my goal is to strengthen connections between young people and adult volunteers, making sure youth voice is embedded at every level, from section nights to district meetings. With the momentum we’ve built so far, I’m confident we’re not only nurturing future leaders - but we’re also empowering them to lead right now.
Luke Powell – District Youth Lead
East Cleveland District Scout Council
District Programme Team Report
Beavers
During the summer of 2024, over 50 Beavers enjoyed a scenic walk along the beach from Marske to Saltburn on a sunny Thursday evening in June. Their next activity was a pumpkin carving competition, where each colony participated by submitting a photo of their best-carved pumpkin. The winner received a golden pumpkin woggle, while the runner-ups were awarded an orange pumpkin woggle. On January 25, the Beavers packed out Saltburn Theatre to watch a fantastic production of Scrooge.
Cubs
The Cubs kicked off their events with Cub Monopoly, originally planned earlier in the year but rescheduled for September due to the typically unpredictable British weather, which left parts of the district underwater. The Cub Quiz returned in blockbuster fashion at St Nicholas’s Church Hall in Guisborough, offering a fun-filled competition. In 2025, the crazy golf competition made its comeback at Holey Molies, with packs from Redcar & Eston joining in on the excitement.
Scouts
Despite a very wet Saturday, the Scouts hosted their Fun Day, and although the weather wasn't on their side, everyone who took part had a great time. Their next activity was a district quiz, hosted by Skelton.
Young Leaders
Young leaders remain active in many sections throughout the District providing support to the section teams. In February, 20 young leaders attended a successful training weekend where each participant was presented with the module A badge. Over the course of the year, three young leaders were present with the Young Leader Award for completing the programme. We hope 2025/2026 will see the creation of a new YL Unit that meets on a semi regular basis.
Dan Barber, Alec Silver, Ian Zipfel & Rach Wilmot – Programme Team
District Explorers
Another successful year for Explorers, in Guisborough and Marske, and now in Redcar and Eston, too. Numbers are rising steadily with highly varied programmes lined up for the future.
A major highlight of the year was the unforgettable experience at the Larkin International Camp, held at the stunning Duncombe Park in Helmsley. This week-long event brought together Scouts from across the UK and around the globe, creating a truly international atmosphere. Our Explorers immersed themselves in the spirit of global Scouting, learning about different cultures, and forming lasting friendships. The camp offered a packed schedule of activities, It was a powerful reminder of the unity and diversity within the Scouting movement and left a lasting impression on everyone who attended.
Explorers demonstrated their resilience and determination through a series of successful expeditions in the North York Moors. These expeditions, planned and executed in collaboration with our Scouts, were not only physically demanding but also required strong teamwork, problem-solving, and navigation skills. Many participants achieved their Platinum Awards as a result, an impressive milestone that reflects their dedication and growth.
In January, we were thrilled to receive two generous grants, which have significantly expanded our programme possibilities. Thanks to this funding, we secured a booking at How Stean Gorge for a thrilling adventure day in May. This location, known for its dramatic limestone gorge, caves,
East Cleveland District Scout Council
and outdoor challenges, promises to be a highlight of our calendar. Additionally, we’ve arranged some weekend camps at Kettleness, offering Explorers and young leaders more chances to build skills, and strengthen friendships in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Looking to the future, our programme in place currently promises to deliver exciting activities to the Explorers. Upcoming activities include an exciting day trip to How Stean Gorge and Brimham Rocks, enjoying activities like Gorge Walking and Caving to name some, an exciting Water sports Activity Day, and a visit to the Houses of Parliament, as well as an array of hikes and camps. This is not to mention the regular meetings held weekly across the district.
Moving forward, the aim should be to maintain this level of retention, while promoting the coordination of joint activities with all Explorer Units across the district. We must also ensure that support is provided to assist in the earning of Top Awards on a district-wide scale.
Dan Tansley - 14-24 Team Leader
Kettleness
It’s great to reflect on the progress made across various projects and initiatives. From essential renovations to work weekends, 2024 has been a year of steady improvement and forward planning.
Work Weekend – Significant Achievements
The 2024 Work Weekend proved highly beneficial, with numerous tasks successfully
completed. While some outstanding items remain, the Site Manager’s list was vastly reduced, and the overall impact was substantial. Many thanks to everyone who attended and
contributed to the weekend. Looking ahead, preparations are already in place for the 2025 Work Weekend, scheduled for 26-28 September.
Facility Improvements and Maintenance
Several major projects have been initiated to enhance the site’s facilities:
-
The shower renovation project is set to proceed during Easter 2025, with the contract awarded, subject to confirmation of a revised quotation.
-
The Leaders Room gas fire, now 18 years old, has been isolated due to damage, rendering it unsafe for use. An electric alternative was installed as a temporary solution while awaiting necessary replacement parts.
-
Our Site Manager, and his team of Merry Men, continued the activity hut renovation as part of an ongoing improvement effort - many thanks to Steve and the gang
-
(pressgang? ) for their heroic efforts in keeping this building operational whilst carrying out the substantial works.
-
The ongoing project to repoint and weather proof the exterior of the building saw the outbuildings get new roofs and the South & West walls repointed.
-
Plans are in place to address the north wall cracking issue in 2026, with a budget estimate just in excess of £5k, for the work.
Projects identified for 2025 include fencing upgrades, enhancements to the wood store,
repairs to workshop roofs, and necessary attention to the front door, which remains a priority.
Painting Schedule
A structured painting schedule has been maintained throughout the year:
The Leaders Room was repainted following soot and smoke damage.
East Cleveland District Scout Council
-
Two Ground-floor dormitories received fresh coats of paint.
-
The activity hut was included in the painting rotation.
-
External painting continues under the five-year maintenance cycle.
Many thanks must go to Jen and Rach for their sterling efforts here!
– Bookings Strong Performance
Booking levels remain exceptionally robust, with demand exceeding previous years and a healthy mix of new customers and returning patrons. The increase in interest highlights the site's excellent reputation as a cost-effective group destination.
Financial Summary
Financial management remains a focal point, with particular attention given to insurance and rent adjustments:
-
The insurance statement reflected higher costs due to delayed submissions from the estate, combining figures from both this year and last.
-
The annual rent continues its RPI-indexed increase.
The centre’s financial situation remains healthy, allowing for the numerous projects to be undertaken, whilst providing a reasonable level of security. Although some of the larger projects may require assistance from external funding in order to go ahead.
Acknowledgements
It was with great pleasure that two of our hardworking team were presented with Long Service Awards this year, acknowledging their dedication and commitment not only to Seeonee Lair, but to Scouting in general. Our congratulations and thanks go to Rachel Hannah (25 yrs Service) and John Hannah (40 yrs Service).
As we move forward into 2025, we remain focused on continuous improvement, ensuring the site remains a well-maintained and welcoming space. Thank you to everyone, who contributed to the success of the past year, especially Steve Swales, our Site Manager — your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Mike Fountain – Kettleness Team Leader.
East Cleveland District Scout Council
Awards 2024 – 2025
25 Chief Scout Acorn Awards ~~oe~~ 22 Chief Scout Bronze Awards 26 Chief Scout Silver Awards ~~oq~~ 11 Chief Scout Gold Awards 17 Chief Scout Platinum Awards ~~o |~~ 3 Chief Scout Diamond Awards ~~oe~~ 3 Young Leader Awards ~~| =~~ 1 King Scout Award ~~oe |~~