**Registered charity number 1019814**
**1[st] Bramhall Scout Group Annual Report and Accounts for the Year ended 31 December 2024**
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group Reference and Administration Details For the period 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024**
||Charity Name
1stBramhall Scout Group
Principal Address
The Bramley Centre, Bramley Close
Bramhall, Stockport SK7 2DT
Registered Charity Number
1019814
HQ Registration Number
4861
Scout District
Ladybrook Valley
Scout County
Greater Manchester East
**Trustees**
**Office**
**Dates acted if not for whole year**|Charity Name
1stBramhall Scout Group
Principal Address
The Bramley Centre, Bramley Close
Bramhall, Stockport SK7 2DT
Registered Charity Number
1019814
HQ Registration Number
4861
Scout District
Ladybrook Valley
Scout County
Greater Manchester East
**Trustees**
**Office**
**Dates acted if not for whole year**|Charity Name
1stBramhall Scout Group
Principal Address
The Bramley Centre, Bramley Close
Bramhall, Stockport SK7 2DT
Registered Charity Number
1019814
HQ Registration Number
4861
Scout District
Ladybrook Valley
Scout County
Greater Manchester East
**Trustees**
**Office**
**Dates acted if not for whole year**|
|---|---|---|---|
||Julie Bottomley|President||
||Sir Peter Fahy*|Vice President|Retired as Trustee 30 Sept 2024|
||Doreen Wyld|Vice President||
||Richard Buckley|Group Chair||
||Richard Baker|Group Treasurer||
||Andrew Corrie|Joint Group Lead Volunteer||
||Barry Aitken|Joint Group Lead Volunteer||
||Tim Taylor|Appointed Trustee||
*During the year, Sir Peter Fahy retired as a Trustee, but remains as a Vice-President to offer advice and assistance as required.
## **Bankers:**
CAF Bank Limited 25 Kings Hill Ave West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ
Royal Bank of Scotland 1 Redheughs Ave Edinburgh EH12 9JN
The Co-operative Bank plc 1 Balloon Street Manchester M60 4EP
## **External Examiner:**
GJ Wood and Co Ltd. Hub 11 Pepper House Pepper Road Hazel Grove Stockport SK7 5DP
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## **– 1st Bramhall Scout Group. Trustees Annual Report**
## **Structure, Governance and Management**
## **Introduction**
Tracing our origins back to 1909, only two years after the founding of the Scout Movement, we are one of the oldest Scout Groups in the country. The Group is part of the Ladybrook Valley Scout District, which itself is part of Greater Manchester East Scout County. The Group is registered with The Scout Association under Registration Number 4861
The Group is an educational charity and constituted as a Trust established under its rules which are common to all Scout Groups. The Group’s governing documents are those of 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 (POR). The Group has adopted the model constitution that is shown in POR.
## **The Group Management**
The Group’s structure complies with the Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association (POR Autumn 2024 edition).The Group is managed by the Group Trustee Board and the Group Leadership Team, assisted by the Facilities sub-team which manages the non-Section related activities of the Group.
**The Group Trustee Board** is a team of volunteers who work together, as charity Trustees, to make sure that the Group is run safely and legally. They are appointed in accordance with the Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR) of The Scout Association. At the heart of their role is a focus on strategy, performance and assurance, working to ensure that the Group is meeting The Scout Association’s overall aims and strategic goals. Effective Trustee support helps other volunteers run the Scout programme that gives young people skills for life.
The members of the Group Trustee Board are required to act collectively as charity Trustees and in the best interests of the charity’s members, acting with reasonable care and skill and taking steps to be confident that the charity is well managed, carries out its purposes for the public benefit, complies with the charity’s governing document and the law and manages the charity’s resources responsibly.
The Group Trustee Board also needs to be confident that the operations of the Group are compliant with POR and the charity regulator, and that there is effective management of each of the seven Scouts Key Polices, being Equal Opportunities Policy, Privacy and Data Protection Policy, Religious Policy, Safeguarding Policy, Safety Policy, Vetting Policy and Youth Member anti-Bullying Policy.
The Group Trustee Board is also required to take steps to be confident that young people are meaningfully involved in decision making at all levels.
The Group Trustee Board is required to ensure that there are sufficient resources (funds, people, property and equipment) available to meet the planned work of the Group, including the delivery of the high-quality programme and the training programme.
The Group Trustee Board members are required to collectively:
- develop and maintain a risk register, including putting in place appropriate mitigations;
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- ensure that the Group’s finances are properly managed, including development and maintenance of appropriate budgets to support the work of the Group;
- maintain and manage:
- a reserves policy for the charity (including a plan for use of reserves outside the ‘minimum’)
- an investment policy for the charity
- a public benefit statement for the charity
- ensure that people, property and equipment are appropriately insured, and that any property and equipment owned or used by the Group is properly protected and maintained
- ensure the appointment and management and operation of any sub-teams, including appointing a Chair to lead the sub-teams
- ensure that effective administration is in place to support the work of the Group Trustee Board
- appoint any co-opted members of the Trustee Board
- ensure transparency of operation, including:
- prepare and approve the Annual Accounts and arrange their examination by an independent examiner as appointed by the Group Scout Council at their Annual General Meeting
- prepare and approve the Group Trustees’ Annual Report (which must include the Annual Accounts and the independent examiner’s report)
- present the approved Group Trustees’ Annual Report and Annual Accounts to the Group Scout Council at the Group Annual General Meeting (AGM)
- following the Group AGM, ensure that a copy of the Group Trustee’s Annual Report and Accounts is sent to the District Trustee Board and filed with the Charity Commission,
- take responsibility for the Group’s adherence to Data Protection Legislation recognising that, dependent on circumstances, it may at different times act as a Data Controller and as a Data Processor
- individually and collectively maintain confidentiality regarding appropriate Trustee Board business
**The Group Leadership Team** helps volunteers across all sections work well together and feel motivated. They make sure the Group is respected and supported in their local community. Team members of the Group Leadership Team include the Group Lead Volunteers and all Section Team Leaders including the Explorer Team Leader. The Team’s tasks are grouped under the following headings:
- Support the Group’s sections
- Develop our volunteers
- Engage with the Community
- Open new provision
- Manage incidents
- Support effective processes
**The Facilities sub-team** (previously known as the Operations Committee) is a sub-team of the Group Leadership Team. It is responsible for the Group’s physical assets in accordance with formal Terms of Reference. It manages the Buildings, Equipment, Transport and Trailers, Hirings, Fire Safety, Finance and Insurance.
Members of the Facilities sub-team during 2024, with their responsibilities, were:
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**----- Start of picture text -----**
Richard Baker Chair of Facilities sub-team plus Finance, Insurance,
Buildings and Transport Manager from July 2024
Julie Bottomley Health & Safety, Buildings, Hirings
Lynne Ormiston Hirings
Graeme Weatherall Fire Safety
Steve Vinten Transport Manager – up to July 2024
Paul Rawcliffe Communications & Website
Richard Buckley Group Chair
Tim Taylor Secretary
**----- End of picture text -----**
The Group thanks all of the above for their hard work during the year. Special thanks go to Steve Vinten for his valuable contribution whilst Transport Manager.
## **Risks and Internal Control**
The Trustee Board has identified the following major risks to which they believe the Group is exposed. These are reviewed regularly and systems established to mitigate them.
**Injury to leaders, helpers, supporters and members.** Through payment of the Capitation Fee to the District and County, the Group contributes to The Scout Association’s national accident insurance policy. Through a separate policy with Unity Insurance, any helpers who are not members of the Scout Association are also covered for injury. Risk assessments are prepared for all activities, communicated to all adults taking part and reviewed regularly. Training and the correct qualifications are integral to our safety management process. All adult members are required to undertake First Response training every three years. All activities have a nominated trained First Aider. The Group has a Fire Safety Officer who undertakes Fire Safety Assessments, provides Fire Training to Adult Volunteers and Hirers and conducts practice evacuations. The Facilities sub-team reviews and updates the Buildings Risk Assessment. All adult leaders and volunteers in the Group are required to complete the appropriate safety and activity training courses and are expected to be familiar with the Purple Card ‘Safe Scouting and Emergency Procedures’ and to understand that Safety is a joint responsibility of all adults in the Group, irrespective of their role.
**Safeguarding** . Keeping young people safe is the paramount responsibility for all adults in Scouting. There is a formal process to ensure that adults are checked through the DBS and the Scout Association’s systems before appointment, and that renewal takes place prior to expiry. All adults in the Group are required to complete the Scout Association Safety and Safeguarding Courses every three years. The Yellow Card which contains essential information on safeguarding is given to all adults. Young people are encouraged to raise any concerns affecting them or another member of the Group with a trusted adult and/or with their own parents.
**Leader Competence** In order to underpin safe quality Scouting for young people, it is very important that all adults holding Scout appointments receive training that is appropriate to their roles. Undergoing training within a stated period is a requirement of all appointments. The Scout Association’s module-based training scheme for adult volunteers is managed by Greater Manchester East Scout County, with assistance at District level. All appointments are for a limited period so systems are in place for reviewing appointments and identifying any further training needs.
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**Damage to buildings, property and equipment.** In the event of such damage, the Group would request the use of buildings, property and equipment from other Scout Groups and/or other neighbouring organisations like churches or community centres. The Group has sufficient insurance cover in place with Unity Insurance for the buildings, contents, public liability, vehicles, trailers, canoes, boats and equipment. Appropriate training is given to all users. Certain items of equipment have been identified for regular checking, testing or maintenance.
**Reduction or loss of leaders.** The Group is totally reliant upon volunteers to run and administer the activities of the Group. If there was a reduction in the number of leaders to an unacceptable level in a particular section, or the Group as a whole, then there would have to be a contraction, consolidation or closure of a section. In the worst case scenario the complete closure of the Group. A similar risk exists from a reduction or loss of young people.
**Reduced income.** The Group is reliant upon income from both subscriptions and the hiring of the Bramley Centre to third party organisations. Hiring income could fall due to reduced demand or due to reduced availability as a result of more section activities. The amounts charged for subscriptions and hiring the premises are reviewed by the Trustee Board annually. Further fund-raising activities could be undertaken for specific purposes.
The Group does hold a reserve to ensure the continuity of activities should there be a major reduction in income.
**General Data Protection Regulation 2018 (GDPR)** . The Group is fully aware of its responsibilities and obligations under GDPR and uses the system for electronic storage and communication managed by Greater Manchester East Scout County. Procedures for the secure storage of information in paper form are also in place. GDPR training has been undertaken by all persons with data handling responsibilities. The Joint Lead Volunteers and Communications Manager advise the Trustee Board and the Group Leadership team on GDPR issues with responsibility resting with the Trustee Board.
## **Objectives and Activities**
The objectives of the group 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 Group meets the Charity Commission’s public benefit criteria under both the advancement of education and the advancement of citizenship or community development headings.
As Scouts, we believe in preparing young people with skills for life. We encourage our young people to do more, learn more and be more. Each week, we give young people in our local area the opportunity to enjoy fun and adventure while developing the skills they need to succeed.
The Scouting Programme is provided to young people between the ages of 4 and 25. Squirrels are aged between 4 and 6, Beavers 6 to 8, Cubs 8 to 10½ and Scouts 10½ to 14. 14 to 18 year olds are in the Explorer Unit which is administered by the District. At 1[st] Bramhall, we operate all the sections between Squirrels and Explorers.
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## **ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE**
## **CHAIR’S REPORT 2024**
Recently, I’ve happened to listen to a few radio documentaries and news articles about the effects of daylight on our children—more specifically, the negative impact of the lack of it. I thought to myself, “ _Yes—get them off their consoles and phones and out into the fresh air_ .” And that’s one of the key benefits of Scouting: getting young people outdoors, in the daylight, and into nature.
Now let me ask you a question: if you asked your teenager on a Saturday morning if they fancied an eight-hour walk, what would the answer be….? I can guess… But that’s exactly what 30 or so 10–14-year-olds happily did on a cold but sunny Saturday in February during the Scouts Winter Expedition. And I can assure you, they all enjoyed it, and they’re all the better for it.
So: let’s get our young people outside, in the fresh air, and actively involved socially.
Please also remember that as parents, we really do need your support. We don’t necessarily need you to put on a necker and help run a meeting (though you're always welcome to!). But anything you can do to support our volunteers would be hugely appreciated.
For example, we urgently need someone to help look after the minibuses. It’s vital they’re maintained and available for use. While we have regular maintenance and safety checks carried out by an external company, we’d love someone who could be available at the Scout Hut to liaise with the service technician—perhaps while _‘working from home’_ for half a day. It would really help and save one of our uniformed leaders a significant chunk of time. So please, ask yourself: could you spare just half a day once a quarter?
Looking ahead, I’m sure our young people will have great experiences and create lasting memories from the various camps and nights away planned for all sections over the summer months.
Finally, I’d like to take this opportunity to formally thank all our amazing leaders, helpers, and Trustees. The time, energy, and commitment you give—week in, week out—makes such a difference in the lives of our young people.
Enjoy the summer.
Best wishes,
Richard Buckley
Group Chair
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## **GROUP SCOUT LEADERS REPORT 2024**
_“Scouts actively engages and supports young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society._
_In partnership with adults, young people take part in fun indoor and outdoor activities. They learn by doing, by sharing in spiritual reflection and by taking responsibility. They make choices, undertake new and challenging activities, and they live their Scout Promise_ . “
That’s the stated aim and purpose of The Scouts. But that’s not why all our young people in 1[st] Bramhall join and stay; they do so because of all that is offered to them week in, week out, across every Section of the Group - Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Explorers, and delivered by a brilliant team of dedicated, enthusiastic, energetic, and resourceful volunteers. And if you want evidence of that, just read this year’s annual review of what the Sections have been up to – it’s truly phenomenal.
That’s the tip of the iceberg; there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes to ensure we can deliver high quality Scouting for everyone. I want to highlight one particular event – in October a cohort of 12 leaders completed at two-day Mental Health First Aid Awareness Course. Barry Aitken (“Harrier”), Dawn Aitken (“Rikkki”), Julie Bottomley, Chris Bowen (“Kinder”), Andrew Corrie (“Skip”), Amy Newport (“Bear”), Dave Reynolds (“Puddles”), Sam Rogers (“Rudder”), Liz Taylor (“Nutkin”), Pauline Wardrop (“Flipper”), and Mikaela Wozencroft (“Little Beever”) have now been trained on mental health knowledge and skills, so don’t hesitate to talk freely to any of them at any time about any mental health issues/topics/concerns. I highlight this as one example from amongst many, of our volunteers’ commitment to training to help them support young people.
Back to the tip of the iceberg – a couple of “standout” moments for the whole Group in 2024. First was JOTT (Jamboree on the Trail) when families from all sections enjoyed a day’s walk of varying lengths, culminating in a splendid barbecue back at the Bramley Centre. And then in September our Group Camp, a weekend at Ashworth Valley Scout Camp near Rochdale, when every Section of the Group had a full-on weekend of activities, challenges, laughter, and fun. No parents at that camp – but not to worry, we’ll be back with our Family Camp in September 2026!
I would like to take this opportunity to say farewell and a massive thank you to some brilliant leaders who “retired” during 2024. Paul Winterburn (“Pedal”) was the extremely popular and effective Explorer Leader for many years, developing a varied and exciting programme that kept the Young People engaged and enjoying their Scouting. Amanda Hudghton (“Suds”) was an amazing Beaver Leader. The Beavers loved her and she came up with activity ideas that were quite astonishing. Thankfully, she continues to be involved with the Group, managing the Waiting Lists. Simon Breeze moved as a Cub leader to Hazel Grove. The Group is very grateful for all their contributions and achievements.
In addition to the above, Iain Lavelle stepped down as the Scout Active Support Manager and Steven Vinten stepped down as the Transport Manager. These “backroom” roles are vital to the success of the Group, and we thank them for all their dedication and contribution.
But for now, just sit down, and take the time to read all about out past action-packed year in the long history of 1[st] Bramhall “simply the best”!
## Andrew Corrie (“Skip”)
GROUP SCOUT LEADER
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## **ANNUAL CENSUS**
**The annual census** , taken in January 2025, showed 164 (prior year:154) young people in Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts with a further 29 (prior year:41) in the Explorer Unit, which is a District Section. All sections operate waiting lists.
**----- Start of picture text -----**
Young people 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Squirrels 21 20 20
Beavers: Colts 21 19 22 19 21 24 23 23 24 22
42 24
Kits 19 19 21 21 21 25 23 25 24 25
Cubs: Pine 22 34 27 28 32 33 34 24 33 24
54 36
Fir 24 22 20 25 27 28 27 24 27 29
Scouts 57 40 65 56 56 65 41 59 41 44 50 50
Total 164 154 175 149 157 175 148 155 149 144 146 110
Explorers 29 41 22 32 29 22 23 27 39 47 41 35
**----- End of picture text -----**
**----- Start of picture text -----**
Leader/Sectional
2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
assistants
Squirrels 8 7 8
Beavers: Colts 9 5 5 4 2 4 3 4 3 8
6 2
Kits 6 5 6 4 2 4 3 3 3 6
Cubs: Pine 4 6 7 5 3 6 5 3 4 4
8 5
Fir 7 7 4 6 3 3 9 7 5 10
Scouts 14 12 17 16 13 15 11 14 10 9 11 9
Total 48 42 47 35 23 32 31 31 27 37 25 16
**----- End of picture text -----**
These numbers don’t include all the Occasional Helpers and Young Explorer Leaders who are so valuable in assisting on section nights and other activities.
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## **SECTION REPORTS**
## **Squirrels Drey- 2024**
It doesn’t seem like 5 minutes since I was writing the report for 2023 but here we are with a snapshot of some of our Squirrel highlights for 2024. It was another exciting year as we welcomed new families and the younger siblings of some of our Beavers/Cubs/Scouts to 1[st] Bramhall to start their own Scouting adventure. The waiting list remains busy with some of our newer members being added the week they were born!
Firstly, I would like to thank the leaders for the many hours of their own time they have given up volunteering with the group. Many of them have children within the Drey and understand the importance of the skills we are developing from a young age. It’s encouraging to see that parents are keen to remain a leader and most move on to Beavers with their child. This regularly opens opportunities for other parents to volunteer so please do get in touch if you would like to get involved.
It was lovely to see so many of the Squirrels join in with the whole Group activities this year. We had a good number of Squirrels take part in the St. George’s Day parade, JOTT, Group Camp and our Group bonfire. We are looking forward to joining in with more Group activities in 2025.
## **A visit to Bramhall Library**
In January 2024 we enjoyed a visit to Bramhall Library as part of our Storytime badge. The Squirrels enjoyed looking at books and listening to stories read to us by staff at the library. They were so good that we even got in invite back for 2025!
## **Charity fundraising**
We continued our Local Superhero badge work by hosting a charity event in April and collected sponsor money. The Squirrels picked a charity of their choice from Chelwood Foodbank, Save the Children or Guide Dogs for the Blind. Many of our Squirrels chose to take part in a sponsored challenge which included bike rides, long walks and swimming. Others chose to collect food or bake cakes to sell. We are very proud that the final total raised for our Charity night was £365 plus 5 bags of food to donate to Chelwood Food bank! This is an amazing achievement - Well done Squirrels. (Guide dogs = £250, Chelwood Foodbank £50 plus bags of food, Save the Children = £65)
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## **Get Creative and Go Wild badges**
Our Autumn term began with learning about the life cycle of a butterfly. We read the story of The Very Hungry Caterpillar then made our own caterpillars and butterflies using various craft items. We learnt how to colour mix paint and use scissors as part of our Get Creative badge. We also worked towards our Go Wild badge by learning about where animals live and what they like to eat. We made our own bug hotel using natural materials and cardboard tubes.
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## **Christmas dinner – food tasting and cooking**
In December our Super Chef badge encouraged the Squirrels to try different types of food and get involved in some cooking. There were lots of clean plates during our Christmas dinner tasting session – there were mixed reviews on the carrots, sprouts, parsnips, cranberry sauce, mince pies and Christmas pudding but the chocolate buttons seemed to be a clear favourite!
Our Reindeer cakes were an even bigger hit! We learnt about why it is important to wash our hands before cooking, how to use scales to weigh ingredients, how to use microwave to melt butter and chocolate and how to mix ingredients together.
Well done to all the Squirrels who achieved their Chief Scout’s Acorn Badge in 2024.
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A big thank you again to all our 2024 volunteer leaders...
“Nutkin” (Liz) “Little Beever” (Mikaela) “Nutella” (Jo) “Hawkeye” (Keith) “Acorn” (Chelsea) “Nympa”(Aycan) “Wren” (Elaine) “Tiggy” (Michelle) “Buttercup” (Laura) and our Scout helper (Sophie), Explorer Young Leader (Charlotte) and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Volunteer (Lauren)
**Liz Taylor - “Nutkin” & Mikaela Wozencroft - “Little Beever” - Squirrel Scout Leaders**
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## **Colts Beaver Colony - 2024**
2024 was a year of change for Colts and for me personally as I stepped down from being Colts Section Leader at the end of the Summer term. So this report captures the fun we had together until that date and Teddy’s report covers the Autumn term.
The Spring term started in January with the District Panto trip to Stockport Plaza. This year it was Peter Pan and was full of the usual singing, dancing, corny jokes and audience participation. Needless to say the Beavers loved it!
Our term proper started with an evening based around Friendship as we welcomed new starters. We then made bird feeders and learnt about the RSPB Birdwatch and encouraged the Beavers to take part in the annual survey as we worked towards our Outdoor Challenge badge.
Our first activity badge of the year was the Health & Fitness badge which we completed around a Winter Sports theme. The Beavers took part in different Winter Sports: Speed Skating, the Luge and Curling and all without snow and ice! We also measured our heart rates before and after exercise and made a healthy snack. Not quite so healthy were the pancakes we made for Pancake Day, but I think I know which the Beavers enjoyed more!
We continued after half term with a Teamwork night, where the Beavers took part in lots of Team challenges, it is fair to say some were more successful than others!
We worked really hard making Lavender bags for our Mums for Mother’s Day, then worked on our second activity badge of the term, the Safety badge. We learnt about the Emergency Services and what they do for us and how to contact them, and we reminded ourselves what to do in an emergency and safely evacuated the Scout hut. We spent an evening learning about the Green Cross code and went out into the village to put it into practise.
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The greatest excitement of the Spring term came with the District Fun Day and Spring Sleepover at the hut. We spent the afternoon making friends and taking part in lots of fun activities on a theme of ‘Around the World’ at 3[rd] Bramhall’s headquarters and then returned to the Bramley Centre to hold our Space camp. We made rockets and constellation cookies, played Alien Nerf wars and had a camp fire; before storytime with Tim Peake and eventually some sleep!
Our Spring term rounded off with traditional Easter activities and lots chocolate!
Our Summer term started with our St George’s Day parade where we proudly marched through Bramhall and renewed our Promise with the rest of the District at St Michaels Church.
We started the Navigator badge, learning about the points of a compass and how to read a map. We made seed pots and planted seeds which we put in flower trugs that we made from decorated milk cartons.
In May we took part in JOTT with the rest of the Group and walking with our friends from Poynton pool. We then spent an evening with Dr Lowe visiting Bramhall Health Centre where we learnt about being a GP and first aid as we worked towards our Emergency Aid badge.
Our final half term of the summer saw us completing our Cycling Activity badge as we learnt how to correctly wear a helmet, to pump up a tyre and to cycle safely around the car park. We learnt how to use a flint and steel to create sparks and how to build and safely light a fire.
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We completed our Navigator badge in Bramhall Park where we split into groups and navigated around a course before spending some time in the play park.
Our final few weeks of term saw us out in the village completing a photo challenge and enjoying the traditional end of term water games. Always a fun night.
Whilst the year didn’t end at the end of the Summer term my role as Beaver leader did. After 10 happy years I would like to say a big thank you to all the young people who have passed through Colts and all the leaders and young leaders who helped make such wonderful memories for me. Scouting is a wonderful organisation and I encourage everyone, young and not so young to get involved.
Best wishes to you all, Suds x
Amanda Hudghton (“Suds”)
Beaver Lead Volunteer (Retired)
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**Colts Beaver Colony – Autumn Term 2024**
September arrived and my new role as Colts Lead Volunteer started with group camp! An amazing weekend of fun in the sun for all sections in 1[st] Bramhall. It was also my first ‘proper’ opportunity to meet the Colt Beavers. A particular highlight was the ‘cheery blaze’ and campfire songs from all the sections.
The Autumn term started with some ‘getting to know each other’ games, and as part of the builder badge, we filled the hall with junk and designed and made money boxes.
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For our community impact badge, we had a visit from Wellspring and learned about foodbanks. They were very grateful for all the food donations too.
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As part of the disability badge, we enjoyed a visit from a hearing support dog, who we all fell in love with…
As well as our annual Christmas party, we had a fab joint visit with Kits to the Rex Cinema to see Moana 2. We ended the year making Christmas cards and singing carols for the residents at Hillbrook Grange.
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Whilst I can’t take full credit for all the badges earned in my first term, I was very proud to award 4 Chief Scout Bronze awards, together with over 100 other badges, and I’m excited to continue my scouting journey with Colts Beavers.
Many thanks to Keego, Digger, Sapphire, Tiger, Sandy, Pogo and the super helpful young leaders for welcoming and supporting me.
Teddy
Kate Vincent (Teddy) Beaver Lead Volunteer - 1[st] Bramhall Colts Beavers
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## **Kits / Colts Beaver Colony - 2024**
At the end of the summer term, Kate Vincent (“Teddy”) replaced the retiring Amanda Hudghton (“Suds”) as the Lead Volunteer of the Monday night Colts Beavers colony. Kate was replaced as the Lead Volunteer of the Wednesday night Kits Beavers by Adam Wozencroft (“Kwasim”).
## **Kits Beaver Colony – to the end of the Summer Term 2024**
Jan 2024 started with a District Panto trip to the Plaza to see Peter Pan. The Beavers enjoyed booing Captain Hook and cheering the Goodies.
Back in the Bramley Centre, the Spring term started with a celebration of Winnie the Pooh, then we made fluffy Haggis’ to mark Burns night and constructed bird feeders to ensure our local wildlife didn’t go hungry in the frosty weather.
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A particular highlight this term was a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of Brookdale Theatre, where the Beavers got to see and try on a variety of costumes and props, visit the dressing rooms and view the lighting and sound booths. They were even able to appear on stage to show off their acting skills. All thanks to the amateur dramatics group who gave up their rehearsals time.
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I was also particularly proud of the Beavers at the St Georges Day parade this year. They represented 1[st] Bramhall brilliantly.
The Summer term brought lighter evenings, which meant we could get out and about exploring our local community. We started with a walking tour of the village with iPads and were joined by a professional photographer who showed us how to take interesting shots of our village as part of the photographer badge.
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We experienced all kinds of weather in the summer term, from the glorious sunshine of JOTT and an evening learning the basics of golf, to a soggy investiture at the end of our mini beast hunt through Benja Fold.
FORE! Who knew there was a National Golf Day? Well, Kits Beaves do! We reached for our clubs and learned all about the game of golf. Tiger Woods better watch out!
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We also celebrated National Red Rose Day by working towards our gardener badge. We planted our very own wildflowers.
Let it never be said that we let a little rain stop us! We took advantage of the wet weather to go out searching for mini beasts in Bramhall. What better spot to also invest our newest Beaver to our colony.
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Fortunately, tree climbing in Bruntwood Park as part of an ‘adventurous activity’ was warm, dry and (as usual) great fun!
I completed my time with Kits in July having awarded over 150 badges, including 3 Chief Scout Bronze Awards, and left for Colts knowing my lovely little Kits Beavers were in safe hands with Kwasim, Rikki, Beefy and Bear (and the super young leaders James and Jack.)
Kate Vincent (Teddy) Beaver Lead Volunteer
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## **Kits Beaver Colony – Autumn Term 2024**
I was very pleased to become the new Lead Volunteer for the Kits Beaver Colony at the end of the Summer Term. Our focus for the Autumn term was achieving our Global Issues badge. We spent 4 weeks learning about various subjects.
Endangered Animals – we learned about the plight of different animals and then quizzed each other.
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Fairtrade: We learned all about Fairtrade and how it supports people all over the world. We also used it as an excuse to make some Fairtrade banana sundaes. All in the name of learning, of course!
Saving Energy: we ran an energy efficient session where we asked everyone to get to the session in an environmentally friendly way. Some walked, some cycled and some shared lifts!
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Water issues: We found out all about the difficulties some people have in accessing clean and safe drinking water. We did an experiment of cleaning dirty water using water filters that we made.
We were also very excited to get to visit Cheadle fire station – where we learned all about how the firefighters do their job and the equipment that they use. They even let us use their powerful hoses – but sadly they didn’t let us use them to wash Kwasins Car.
31
The following week we put our fire safety skills into practice with a fantastic, very safe campfire evening with songs, hot chocolate and marshmallows. Pure scouting joy!
32
We welcomed a visit from the Charity Wellspring, who came in to tell us all about the amazing work they do to support people in Stockport who are homeless or at risk from losing their home. The Beavers showed incredible generosity by donating a HUGE amount of food that was donated to Wellspring. Well done Beavers!
33
What better way to end the term and year than with a Christmas party. Plenty of chocolate, games and music. We even had an indoor snowball fight.
I’m sure you will agree, we have had a year of fun, learning and teamwork. The Beavers have all done incredibly and we hope that they continue to enjoy their time with us. We hope that they are proud of the skills and confidence they have developed along the way and the badges that represent all their achievements. We are proud of them ALL and love seeing them grow.
Before I sign off, can I please give a huge thank you to all our volunteer adults and young leaders who help plan and run our programme. We couldn’t do it without the time and effort you so kindly give up for the Beavers. **Thank you!**
We can’t wait for the next year of Beaver shenanigans!
Adam Wozencroft (Kwasim) Kits Beaver Lead Volunteer
34
## **Fir Cub Pack - 2024**
2024 was a fun packed year! We have filled the terms with plenty of games and activities to keep the Cubs occupied.
At present our team consists of:
- Akela (Caroline)
- David (Badger)
- Little Beever (Kae)
- Baloo (Angela)
- Des (Jacala)
In 2024 we welcomed new members to the team:
- Phil (Rikki)
- Jacob (Chill)
April saw 1[st] Bramhall stepping out in force for JOTT and enjoying the day and festivities.
35
June was the start of the camping for Fir Pack. We did “Our York trip “where Fir pack went on a weekend trip to York. We visited the Railway Museum and had a lovely day walking round and talking about the different engines. We also got to do some investing into the pack on the top of a beautiful bridge in the station, then returned to the campsite for games and activities, plus hot chocolate and marshmallows!
November was our next night away where we went to Linnet Clough and enjoyed a lovely couple of days. It was an adventure - we did leader and cub led activities. We had a 6-mile hike and scavenger walk and had hot choc on a hillside. We had an amazing time on the Cube, we were impressed with the cubs facing new heights, and the shooting in archery was outstanding. We enjoyed hot choc and marshmallows and a movie night in the hut.
36
Then after the quickest turn around possible from camp we were out with the rest of the district for Parade.
The Happy Valley Over the Seasons Trip to complete the Naturalist Badge was a lot of fun! Orienteering was challenging and got us ready for our November camp. We looked at seasonal changes in many areas of the valley and got to know our countryside code in the process.
There are so many nights that take place over the year that we cannot mention them all, but the Cubs have learnt a lot during Camp Bases - how to set up and take down tents as well as set up the
37
beds and take everything down. Also, we have completed our passport multiple times showing the cubs how to strip their beds and re make as well as iron and change a fuse.
Our yearly bike ride to Middlewood way is always good fun and the cubs love it. They love the ice cream they get as a reward at the end of the night - thanks to the lovely café.
The cubs had great fun in October building ovens out of cardboard and foil, then making pizzas to cook in them. The following session was so easy and so much fun - some lovely cooked pizzas were eaten.
38
Then with all the other sections - 15 of our Pack joined the Group camp weekend where they joined in the Olympic Games - scavenger hunt and worked with all age groups, they had a fabulous weekend filled with food fun and making new friends.
The plans for 2025 are just as exciting! I would like to thanks to all the leaders for their help in 2024 and to all the parents and cubs for their support!
2025 is off to a flying start with us already booked for Chinese New Year and loads of other events in the coming months!
Caroline Noone (Akela)
Cub Lead Volunteer - 1[st] Bramhall Fir Cub Pack
39
**Pine Cub Pack – 2024**
2024 was another great year for Pine Pack
Great bunch of cubs – lots of new and old activities, and lots of fun along the way
## **Tuesday night fun and games**
Like all the sections, we have a balanced programme which means we have a variety of activities. We love trying new things as well as doing some of the old favourites.
It doesn’t have to be complicated. Something as simple as marshmallows around the fire makes for a great night and an excuse to invest one of our new cubs
Although summer was a great chance to get out on the water on these mega stand up paddle boards
40
We went cycling again but also spent an evening learning how to look after our bikes
We went to the University of Manchester to learn about nuclear energy
## **Camps and nights away**
Our nights away trips are always highlights. This year we managed two.
For summer camp we went to Linnet Clough which gave us a great chance to try some of the activities on offer there. As well as climbing, we managed to do some kayaking using our kayaks and our newly trained leaders (see below). All the traditional elements were there too with lots of games, hikes, cooking and singing
41
Is this not the best bit of any camp?
42
Kayaking on the Roman Lakes in Marple
Then in September we took part in the Group Camp – it was great to be with everyone else from Squirrels to Explorers
43
## **Being part of the community**
A really important element of being part of the scouting family is to make an active contribution to our community. As well as taking part in the St Georges Parade and the Remembrance Parade, we also spent an evening clearing Happy Valley of Himalayan Balsam
## **Badges and Awards**
Earning badges is clearly a large part of what we do. This year it was great to see so many of our Cubs moving up to Scouts with their Silver Chief Scouts Award, the highest that a Cub can achieve. A big thank you to Leela who has been keeping on top of all the requirements that the Cubs need to achieve to get this reward.
## **Training**
Training for all adults involved in scouting is a major priority to ensure that we provide fun, but safe, activities and events. This year all our leaders undertook extensive repeat safety training to make sure we are all up to date.
Often our training is pretty good fun in its own right. Akela and Ikki spent most of a (pretty chilly!) weekend on, or mostly in, Lake Coniston. The permits we earned let us take the Cubs kayaking and other water sports so that we can make the most of the fabulous equipment we have available at 1[st] Bramhall. We are now focussing on increasing our safety equipment so that we can extend these activities to our smaller members including Beavers.
44
Watersport training for leaders on Lake Coniston
## **And Finally**
Just to remind everyone that the leaders have as much fun as the young people
Richard Edmondson Akela
45
## **Scout Troop Section Report 2024**
This is my first year as the Section Leader after 5 years being an assistant to Peter Boxall (Whittle). Both he and Richard Baker (Cash) have been a fantastic support this year. We also had two new leaders join us, Peter Roberts (Trail) and Tom Winpenny (Mudkip), a former Scout of 1[st] Bramhall.
The team we have in place come together, time and again, to deliver fantastic opportunities for our young people and it is a privilege to take on the role of Section Leader amongst them and to receive all the support from families.
A great programme in Scouting should involve building skills, doing new things, undertaking adventurous activities, reflecting on values, giving to others, being part of the community and generally having fun. In 2024 we delivered those things in buckets!
In 2024 we awarded 386 badges! Almost 100 of those being the Challenge badges in support of the Chief Scout Gold Award, which we are pleased to say was awarded to 5 Scouts last year.
## **Winter Camp**
Our Year started with a trip to Ennerdale, a gorgeous and quiet spot in the Lakes where Scouts completed hikes in the fells, a fantastic weekend and going back each year always proves popular!
46
## **Scout Panto**
Back in Bramhall, the Scouts helped organise and put on the biannual Panto performance. This year it was all about Byte Grylls - an “evil” version of Bear Grylls, who changed and ruined all the Scout Laws for his own selfish purposes. Scouts helped with the sounds, lighting, stage design and props to support the fantastic performances by the actors.
## **Saturday Walk**
We arranged a hike early in the year up to White Nancy to give the opportunity to test navigation skills and families came along for the fun
## **Spring/Summer Meetings**
We celebrated Chinese New Year by cooking various dishes and having a mini food festival to try all the different foods.
We also did two nights working towards the Creative Challenge award, where Scouts chose between Leatherworking, Papier Mache, Pyrography and Whittling.
We had a Murder Mystery night and meetings dedicated to Teamworking and Camp preparation. We celebrated the pagan festival of Beltane and did a night hike around Werneth Low, staying overnight (indoors) at Boarfold Scout Camp. We ended the summer term with our end of year BBQ and Games at Woodford Rec (my ongoing attempts to teach Kubb continue)
47
## **Bases**
Throughout the year we break into Patrols for “Bases” to try new activities, This year involved Climbing, Fencing, Kayaking, Gymnastics and a good old fashioned water fight! These activities aim to develop teamworking, personal resilience and a desire to embrace new things and maybe ignite a lifelong passion.
48
The idea here was to pour water into the bucket of the person behind, but generally it just got poured all over the person!
## **Community**
Scouts took part in the St. Georges Day parade and the Remembrance Day parade. We helped with clearing Himalayan Balsam in Ladybrook Valley, did a charity carwash for Macmillan and Scouts donated Christmas boxes for Help the Aged
49
## **Scoutcraft-on-the-Water camp**
We usually do two camps in the early summer: one to cover Scouting skills aka Scoutcraft and then a Watersports camp. This year, through herculean efforts from Leaders we delivered both camps in one go at Scoutcraft-on-the-Water! The camp included a hard morning of pioneering, putting up dining shelters and learning how to use axe, knife and saw safely. All before lunch.
Scouts then enjoyed Kayaking, Sailing and Paddleboarding on Windermere. They cooked together on open fires and did a fantastic job of Striking camp. All in just 2 days after arriving late on Friday night.
## **Summer Camp**
The 2024 Summer Camp took place on a glorious greenfield site near Thornhill, 16 miles north west of Dumfries. 27 scouts plus leaders camped on a large field beside a stream in a wooded valley for 9 days. The scouts learnt to erect tents, how to live in a tent for a substantial period of time, how to plan meals and shop for the food, how to collect and prepare wood for fires and how to build fires and cook on them. They learnt how to get along with each other and I am sure that new friendships were made. Patrol leaders learnt loads on how to manage their patrol.
Camp in action in all it’s glory! Smiles all round
50
There was a lot of fun too – many activities were inspired by the Paris Olympics, with archery, volleyball, grass sledging, football and a variety of “original” camp games. We had a day out to an activity centre on Loch Ken, where the scouts went sailing and climbing, as well as going on the huge inflatables on the waterpark. The weather was glorious – it was sunny most days and only rained one day – conveniently on the day we visited the Wanlockhead leadmines and gold panning centre.
52
The scouts were brilliant on camp – keen to get into the spirit of everything, including the exciting incident journey, the cooking competition and helping the farmer move his wood. In summary, this is what scouting is all about!
## **Leader Training and mentions**
Leaders completed a day of safety training early in the year as part of their ongoing commitment to safe scouting. This day covered all the Scout Safety requirements, to ensure that we continue to deliver a Scouting programme that is adventurous and exciting but not dangerous. The use and importance of risk assessments was covered in detail.
Leaders have also completed all sorts of other training individually, including Canoeing, Paddleboarding, Hiking, First Aid and climbing.
As Section Leader I have an ongoing commitment to learn as much as I can about how young people develop and how we can shape activities to give them opportunities to develop their resilience and empathy and to reflect on how they communicate.
53
Within the Group leaders also joined together to complete a mental health first aid training course
A huge thankyou to everyone who helped in one way or another: from parents and leaders, to members of the community, to all those behind the scenes that help us deliver our programme,to the brilliant and enthusiastic Scouts themselves and to the endless support of my partner Bethan!
Finally a special mention that within all of this, I welcomed my son Lewis to the world, a future member of the Troop
Chris Bowen – “Kinder” – Scout Section Team Leader
54
## **The XBU Explorer Section - 2024**
## **A YEAR OF CHANGE FOR XBU**
The year started as every other, but by Easter, we had the loss of four leaders, including Pedal who had led the Unit for a number of years. This was a major and unexpected change, but with the agreement and support of the remaining leaders, I agreed to take this forward and get us through to Summer Camp.
This change brought with it an opportunity to ‘reset’ how we worked, to help us make things work with a reduced number of leaders, but also to refocus XBU on Scouting and the Scouting Awards (which build upon the Duke of Edinburgh Awards where the focus had previously been) and ensure that these are offered to all, through the weekly programme.
In this respect, we have run sessions as an introduction to expeditions, and the additional requirements for the Scout Awards in the areas of international, community and values.
In addition to this work, and the key events below, we also ran a number of other activities through the year: Pasty Hike – a night hike from Bow Stones, through Lyme Park to Poynton, being met at the end with freshly baked Cornish pasties; our annual trip to Alton Towers; a climbing session at Linnet Clough; a night of Pumpkin Carving; Bowling; our usual Christmas party.
## **Winter camp**
This year we held winter camp at Great Tower Scout Camp in the Lake District. It followed the usual format – a fun filled weekend of games in the evenings, a day out in the hills on the Saturday and high ropes on Sunday morning.
## **JOTT**
This year we took a turn from the usual, joining the rest of the Group on the main JOTT rather than running our own JOTT night hike. We started off from Linnet Clough and headed to meet the Scouts at their starting point, at Lyme Park, and hiked back to the Scout hut with them.
## **Summer Camp**
Summer camp was held in the New Forest this year. The highlight of the week was having the opportunity to spend a night hammocking on Brownsea Island, on the site of the first ever Scout camp. It started with a ferry trip over to the island and a hike across the island to the site, carrying everything we would need for the overnight stay. After setting up camp, some games and tea, it was time to settle down for the night under the stars. We completed our stay the following morning with a powerboat ride along the Jurassic coast.
We fitted in lots of other activities over the week too, including a trip to an aqua park, laser quest in the woods, hiking through the New Forest and an opportunity for cooking on open fires and making pizzas.
## **Group camp**
In September, we joined the rest of the Group for the Group Camp – although the Explorers helped throughout the camp, supporting activities and cooking lunch on the Saturday for all on site, they also had the opportunity to camp (and hammock) away from the main group, have some downtime
55
together and play some usual Explorer games in the evening. The best news from camp – we came home with a new leader!
## **Remembrance Sunday**
XBU have always had a reputation of trying to do things a bit differently, and it was great to continue this, taking a group of Explorers hiking in the Peak District on Remembrance Sunday.
This was not an excuse to avoid the usual remembrance service, rather an opportunity to be involved in a short act of remembrance led by members of the local mountain rescue team around the remains of the military aircraft on Bleaklow. It was a long day, lacking in views, but 19km later, having taken in Kinder Scout, we arrived at the minibus in the Edale valley ready to be driven home!
## **And this couldn’t have happened without…**
The continuation of the Unit following the change in the leadership team has only been possible due to those who have remained in place and those who have stepped up to help.
In this respect, Butterfly has offered a significant amount of support throughout this change. In addition, we have had the continued support from Snowflake, Anna who has transferred from Scouts and Chris who joined us on the back of Group Camp.
In addition to our leadership team, we have also had the support from a number of parents, leaders in the wider Group, Group Trustees and also our District Lead Volunteer… driving vans full of kit, dropping us off / picking us up in the minibus, cooking pasties or spending a week on camp with us… without this help we wouldn’t have been able to deliver the programme that we do.
But to continue this, we are in need of significantly more support. If you like the sound of some of the things we get up to and can spare some time, why not get in touch?
David Reynolds – “Puddles” – Explorer Scout Leader
56
## **FINANCIAL REVIEW - 2024**
The major item of expenditure in 2024 was the purchase of a minibus at a cost of £14,800. To get a wider pool of drivers, a 3.5 tonne minibus was chosen, which can be driven by drivers possessing a standard car driving licence. The downside is that the largest Ford minibus available at this weight is a 14 seater.
Unlike recent years, 2024 saw very little expenditure on repairs or improvements to the Bramley Centre. However, £4,655 was spent on training – in particular a Mental Health Training course for Leaders and a Watersports training course in order to get the necessary Adventurous Activity Permits. The growth in Training expenditure reflects an ongoing requirement to keep training up to date and relevant, but the cost of using external training providers is significant.
2024 also saw the start of a more rigorous budgeting process, which has proved helpful in decisionmaking and priority setting. This process will be expanded and improved upon in 2025.
In the year, the overall cash balance fell by £9,631, mainly as a result of the minibus purchase. The Group had budgeted for this expenditure and possess the cash reserves to finance it. Consequently, our finances still remain sound.
Excluding the minibus expenditure which has been capitalised, the operating surplus (before depreciation) from our Group and Section activities was £9,718 (2023: £1,404) which is considered acceptable by the Trustees.
Subscription income in the year grew by £390 (1.4%) due to a slight increase in numbers. The Trustees decided to increase the monthly subs amount to £17 for those starting the Group after 1[st] Jan 2025. Whilst regrettable during a period of cost of living anxiety, the Trustees are required to take a long term view. As an increase only applies to new starters, with an individual’s rate remaining the same throughout their time at 1st Bramhall, the full benefit of an increase takes quite a while to come through.
Income from hiring the Bramley Centre to community groups fell by £2,934 to £19,100 due to the loss of two major hirers. One wanted longer hours into the evening which would have impacted our Section meetings. The reduction caused by these losses was somewhat mitigated by an increase in parties and holiday clubs. Nevertheless, the hiring income remains at an exceptional level and fully supports the cost of running the Bramley Centre. The Group thanks Lynne Ormiston for administering this crucial income source.
Gift Aid income received was £6,452, an increase of £368 over the prior year. This continues to be another valuable source of income for the Group. The Group was successful in applying for a Grant from Poynton Round Table and was awarded £1,000 to go towards the cost of the new minibus. We also received £2,000 from the Columbus Fellowship who had previously (in 2018) given us £4,000 for the purchase of the RIB safety boat. Bramhall & Woodford Rotary again invited us to take part in the Santa float and we received £550 for this. We sincerely thank all these organisations for their support and generosity.
## **PLANS FOR FUTURE PERIOD**
We intend to continue our programme of improving the Bramley Centre, purchasing equipment to support the Scouting programme and investing in the training of our adult volunteers, in safety and first aid as well as in obtaining adventurous activity permits. This is so that we can continue to expand the range of programme activities that we can offer. There are plans to redecorate parts of
57
the building, to address the damage cause to the brickwork by water ingress and to install a
specialist play surface in the courtyard
Reserves Polic
The group's policy on reserves is to hold sufficient resources to continue the charitable activities of
the Group should income fall short or large amounts of expenditure are required on, for example,
repairs and maintenance on the Bramley Centre building or on transport. Each year, £3,000 is
transferred from Resenies to a Designated Fund for Minibus replacement. The Board of Trustees
considers that the current level of reserves is sufficient.
Investment Pollc
The Group has adopted a risk averse strategy to the management of its liquid funds which are held
in cash using a mainstream bank. Cash not required immediately is held in an interest bearing
account. The Trustee Board regularly monitors the levels of bank balances and the interest rates
received to ensure the Group obtains maximum value and income from its banking arrangements.
The Trustee Board regularly considers the cash flow requirements and longer term investments are
split beeen a 60 day notice account and an Invesco Managed Fund, which was chosen to give a
diversified range of investments following a discussion with an Independent Financial Advisef.
Declaratlon
The Trustees declare that they have approved the Trustees, Annual Report above.
Signed on behalf of the Charity's Trustees:
Rich
rd Buckley
Julie Bottomley
Andrew Corrie
Group Chairman
Group President
Group Lead Volunteer
Date..
Date. lJlr13f
58
1st Bramhall Scout Group
Independent Examiner's Report
I report on the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 December 2024, which are set out on pages 60 to 69.
Respective responsibililies of trustees and examiner
The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The chanty's trustees consider thal an audit is not
rèquired lor this year under section 144121 of the Charities Act 2011 Ilhe 2011 Acl} and that an independent examination is
needed.
It is my responsibility to..
examin& thè accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act.,
follow tho procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 14515llbl of
thè 2011 Act, and
slate whether particular matters have Come to my attention.
81818 of Independont ox•mlnerfs report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Direclions given by the Charily Commission. An examination
includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the aceounls prèsènted with thosè
records. 118lso includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you
as Iruslees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provid& all the evidence that would bé required in
an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'lrue and fair viebl, and Ihe report is limited
to thosè mattérs sel out in the statemènt bélow.
Indopondent examlnorfs Statement
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention..
V4hich gives m8 reasonable cause lo believe that, in any malenal réspect, the r8quir8m8nls'.
to keep accounting records in accordance wilh section 130 of the 2011 Act,, and
to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the
accounting requirements of the 2011 Aet
have not been met., or
lo which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order lo enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be
reached.
Gary Wood, FCCA
G.J. Wood & Co. Ltd.
Hub 11 Pepper House
Pepper Road
Hazel Grove
Slockport
SK7 5DP
03 May 2025
59
1st Bramhall Scout Group
Balance Sheet
31 December 2024
2024
2023
Note
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
Investments
349,824
71,332
421.156
344,810
66,525
411,335
Current Assets
Bank and cash (Group)
Bank and cash (Sections}
Debtors
34,370
821
43,236
1,583
1,155
45,974
35,191
Current Llabllltles
Other creditors
395
395
1.289
1.289
Net Current Assets
34,796
44,685
Total Assets less Current Lalblllties
455,952
456,020
Funds
General Unrestrided Fund
Revaluation reserve
Transport Reserve Fund
338,028
111,458
6,466
455,952
326,296
111,458
18,266
456,020
Approved on behalf of the Trustee Board
Chair
Treasurer
60
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group**
## **Notes to the Financial Statements**
## **31 December 2024**
## **1 Accounting policies**
## a) **Basis of accounting**
## **Receipts and Payments**
The accounts for both the current and comparative years have been prepared under the receipts and payments basis as permitted under the Charities Act 2011.
## **Land and buildings**
Land and buildings have been revalued by the trustees and are included in the accounts at their valuation, in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
## b) **Capital expenditure**
Fixed assets are shown in the accounts at cost less accumulated depreciation, with the exception of land and buildings, which is shown at the Trustees valuation of £340,000.
The cost of equipment is written off in full during the year of acquisition. For insurance purposes, equipment is valued at £71,628.
## c) **Depreciation**
Provision for depreciation is made at the following rates:
Buildings 0.5 % straight line Garage 5% straight line Minibus, trailers and boats 25% on a reducing balance basis
## **2 Tangible fixed assets**
|Cost or valuation
At 1 January 2024
Additions
At 31 December 2024
Depreciation
At 1 January 2024
Depreciation for the year
Net Book value 2024
Net Book value 2023|Land &
Building
Garage,
toilets &
gutters
Minibus,
trailers,
boats &
frontage
Total
340,000
46,665
33,020
419,685
-
-
14,800
14,800
340,000
46,665
47,820
434,485
37,400
12,667
24,808
74,875
1,700
2,333
5,753
9,786
39,100
15,000
30,561
84,661
300,900
31,665
17,259
349,824
302,600
33,998
8,212
344,810|
|---|---|
61
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group**
## **Notes to the Financial Statements**
|**31 December 2024**
**3**
**Investments**
Invesco Managed Growth
Shawbrook CAF 60 Day Notice Account|**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
20,226
19,525
51,106
47,000
71,332
66,525|
|---|---|
The market value of the Invesco Managed Growth Fund at 31 December 2024 was £28,510 (2023 £26,001).
## **4 Funds**
The Trustee Board approved a transfer of of £11,800 to the General Unrestricted Fund from a general designated fund, the Transport Reserve Fund. This fund has been set up to provide for future vehicle replacement costs.
|**5**
**Donations and Grants**
Bramhall & Woodford Rotary Club - Santa Float
Poynton Round Table
Columbus Fellowship
University of Manchester Volunteering Award|**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
550
500
1,000
-
2,000
-
-
200
3,550
700|
|---|---|
62
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group**
## **Squirrel Drey Statement of Financial Activities**
## **31 December 2024**
|**Incoming resources**
Subscriptions from group
**Resources expended**
Activities
Badges/trophies
**Net incoming (outgoing) resources**
Bank and cash balance at 1 January 2024
Bank and cash balance at 31 December 2024|**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
578
373
578
373
423
203
155
170
578
373
-
-
-
-
-
-|
|---|---|
63
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group**
## **Beaver Colony Statement of Financial Activities**
## **31 December 2024**
|**Incoming resources**
Subscriptions from group
Pantomime
Camps
Sleepover
Cinema
Sundry income
**Resources expended**
Activities
Badges/trophies
Camps
Cinema
Pantomime
Sleepover
**Net (outgoing) incoming resources**
Bank and cash balance at 1 January 2024
Bank and cash balance at 31 December 2024|**2024**
**£**
376
32
-
300
350
25
1,083
475
105
125
450
-
234
1,389
(306)
328
22|**2023**
**£**
1,273
632
645
512
-
100
3,162
1,111
-
695
-
562
548
2,916
246
82
328|
|---|---|---|
64
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group**
## **Pine Cub Pack Statement of Financial Activities**
|**31 December 2024**
**Incoming resources**
2023 Winter trip - York
Camps
Subscriptions from group
**Resources expended**
2023 Winter trip - York
2024 Trip Sixers and Seconders
Activities
Badges and trophies
Camps
Uniform
**Net (outgoing) incoming resources**
Bank and cash balance at 1 January 2024
Bank and cash balance at 31 December 2024|**2024**
**£**
-
635
500
1,135
-
111
885
141
594
-
1,731
(596)
898
302|**2023**
**£**
1,035
1,500
750
3,285
1,008
-
399
157
1,132
24
2,720
565
333
898|
|---|---|---|
65
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group**
## **Fir Cub Pack Statement of Financial Activities**
|**31 December 2024**
**Incoming resources**
Camps
Activities
Subscriptions from group
**Resources expended**
Activities
Camps
Badges and uniforms
**Net incoming (outgoing) resources**
Bank and cash balance at 1 January 2024
Bank and cash balance at 31 December 2024|**2024**
**£**
1,730
22
634
2,386
770
1,480
117
2,367
19
157
176|**2023**
**£**
830
-
1,565
2,395
1,123
1,443
74
2,640
(245)
402
157|
|---|---|---|
66
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group**
## **Scout Troop Statement of Financial Activities**
|**31 December 2024**
**Incoming resources**
Activities
Camps
Subscriptions from group
Sundry income
**Resources expended**
Activities
Camps
Equipment and consumables
Bank charges
**Net incoming (outgoing) resources**
Bank and cash balance at 1 January 2024
Bank and cash balance at 31 December 2024|**2024**
**£**
735
8,155
5,350
1
14,241
3,702
10,140
220
60
14,122
119
199
318|**2023**
**£**
638
16,332
2,100
3
19,073
4,391
16,833
95
66
21,385
(2,312)
2,511
199|
|---|---|---|
67
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group**
## **Group Statement of Financial Activities**
## **31 December 2024**
|**Incoming resources**
Gift Aid
Letting income
Other income
Subscriptions
Uniforms
24hr Marathons
Bonfire Night
JOTT
September 2024 Group Camp
Donations and Grants
**Investment income and interest**
Bank deposit interest
Invesco Managed Growth
NS&I Interest
Shawbrook 60 Day Interest
**Total incoming resources**
**Resources expended**
**Property costs**
Building maintenance
Cleaning
Electricity
Gas
General rates
Internet and telephone
Water rates
**Group Scout costs**
Camp
Capitation fee
Group Scout Activities
OSM costs
Other expenses
Payments to sections
Training
Uniform and badges
JOTT
September 2024 Group Camp
Trackers|**2024**
**£**
6,452
19,100
1,055
27,769
235
-
1,398
458
4,330
3,550
64,347
1,049
702
-
1,106
2,857
67,204
3,064
6,398
3,375
387
275
361
886
14,746
15
7,469
6
166
198
7,438
4,655
1,903
458
2,899
302
25,509|**2023**
**£**
6,084
22,034
842
27,379
164
7
1,295
93
-
700
58,598
837
-
307
-
1,144
59,742
7,332
6,361
3,669
598
380
336
704
19,380
15
8,225
19
163
155
6,062
134
745
310
100
1,103
17,031|
|---|---|---|
68
## **1st Bramhall Scout Group**
## **Group Statement of Financial Activities**
## **31 December 2024**
|**Other resources expended**
Examiner's fee
Bank charges
Depreciation
Equipment
Insurance
Other expenses
Printing, stationery and sundry
Vehicle and transport costs
Charitable Donations
Bonfire Night
Website
**Total resources expended**
**Net Incoming (outgoing) resources**
Funds at 1 January 2024
Funds at 31 December 2024|**2024**
**£**
120
80
9,786
945
7,000
47
9
6,976
65
1,131
94
26,253
66,508
696
342,670
343,366|**2023**
**£**
120
161
6,770
7,217
6,463
123
42
5,225
50
996
94
27,261
63,672
(3,930)
346,600
342,670|
|---|---|---|
69