2024-12-31-accounts

Gwent Area Scout Council Annual General Meeting Thursday 19th June 2025 Scouts Gwent

Gwent Area Scout Council Annual General Meeting Thursday 19th June 2025 AGENDA Welcome by Edward Watts, MBE, DL, Chairman Gwent Area Scout Council 1. To receive apologies for absence, 2. To i'obkniVL) aiid ipprovL LIILJ li J1jj)I It J held on Thursday 27th June, 2024. of iiie Aiiiiual Gcneral Meeting 3. To receive and approve the Annual Review. 4. Address by Area Lead Volunteer. 5. To receive the Accounts of the Area Scout Council. 6. To appoiilt ati Ai"ea Chair. 7. To appoint an Area Treasurer. 8. To appoii.ll nic'i i-lbc'rs t() tl-I'= AIL:LI Doui (i Oi 9. To approve any additional or community members to the Area Scout Council. l'iè t() lji*J QnL5i i(-il UF tl,, sJociation To appoint one representative aged 18125 to the Council of the Association. 11.To appoint two representatives {1 Scouter, 1 Trustee) to the Welsh Scout Council. To appoint one representative aged 18125 to the Welsh Scout Council. 12.To appoint an Auditorllndependent Examiner. 13. To abi<iiowlodge the incuiiibeilts in the role of Area President and Area Vice Presidents 14. To re-adopt the Area Constitution and agree other administrative matters 15. Address by Chief Commissioner of Wales 16. Presentations 17. Presentation by Bella Watkins on her Rover Way experience

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Gwent Area Scout Council hold at the Mission to Seafarers, Newport Thursday 27th June 2024 Edward Watts, Chairman of the Gwent Area Scout Council opened the meeting by welcoming members of the Area Scout Council, He also expressed his pleasure that the Area President Robert Aitken Llt was able to be present, together with other guests. including Rhian Moore Chief Commissioner and Rob Redmond Regional Commissioner, Scouts Cymru. He mentioned that we were at the beginning of change in the new 'Transformation' project and reminiS￿d over the different stages he had gone through with various Area Commissioners; Chris Lee, Christine Davy and Chris Owen-Brooks, stating we had seen off 'covid' and various economic disasters but Gwent Scouting has continued through. The Chairman then asked for a moments reflection on those who had 'gone home,, Don Norris, Gordon King, Derek Robinson. 35 persons were present. 1. Apologies: 18 Apologies were received. 2. To recelve and approve the minutes of the 2023 Annual General Meeting. th The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 29 June 2023 were received and approved after adding at item16 para 2, the name of Kath Lewis 3. To receive and approve the Annual Review. The report was received and approved. 4. Addr8ss by the Area Commissioner. Elizabeth O'malley (Silver) gave a short address indicating it was 9 months since she had come into Gwent, she had received a great welcome and had enjoyed the experience to date reflecting on her 6 months in an acting capacity. She felt she had a great Trustee Board and amazing Training Team and well functioning Districts. She indicated everything else she wished to say was in her report and hoped that at future AGM'S young people could give some presentation on their activities and experiences. S. To receive and approve the accounts of the Area Scout Councll. The accounts were received, there were no questions and they were approved. The Treasurer gave a brief updated indicating that the biggest change was that our investments had been liquidated and we were looking to re-invest in the future. The Chief Commissioner thanked the Area for the inclusion of an International Fund.

1. To appoint an Area Chair. The Area Commissioner indicated under the new guidelines approval is sought to confirm the decision of the Board of Trustees at their meeting on the th 20 May 2024 to appoint Edward Watts as the Area Chair, this was approved. (The appointment lasts for 3 years)
2. To appoint an Area Treasurer. The Chairman sought confirmation of the decision of the Board of Trustees at th their meeting on the 20 May 2024 to appoint Chris Owen-Brooks as the Area Treasurer, this was approved. (The appointment lasts for 3 years)
3. To appoint Members of the Area Board of Trustees The Chairman sought confirmation of the decision of the Board of Trustees at th their meeting on the 20 May 2024 to appoint the following as members of the Board: David Cook, Helen Gardner, Christopher Munslow, Andy Scarisbrick, Christine Davy, Christine Hands, Andrew Osman, Mike Breakwell (who would act as secretary). (The appointments last for 3 years)
4. To appoint any Additional or Community Members to the Area Scout Council. There were no nominations.
5. To appoint (a) on8 r8pre8entstive to the Council of the Association and (b) one representativ8 agad 18125 to the Council of the Association. The nominations of Edward Watts (a) and Dylan Murray (b) were approved.
6. To appoint {a) Iwo representstives to the Welsh Scout Council and (b) one representative aged 18125 to the Welsh Scout Councll. The nominations of Chris Munslow, Bethanie Headworth (a) and Bella Watkins (b) were approved.
7. To appoint and Auditorllndependent Examiner. The nomination of Gareth Beale was approved.
8. To acknowledge the incumbents in the role of Area Presidant and Vice Presidents. These were acknowledged as Brig. Robert Aitken Lord Lt. as President and Bryan Davies, John Hodgetts and Keith Daniels as Vice Presidents.

9. To re-adopt the Area Constitution. The Chairman reported that as a result of the new 'Transformation' project that the current Area Constitution is suspended and that adopting the current Rule 5.6.1 of the Associations Policy, Organisation and Rules take immediate effect. It was agreed that the Quorums for the Board of Trustees Meeting will be 7 and the Area Scout Council 20.

10. Address by the Chief Commissioner of Wales. Rhian Moore commenced her address in stating that young people are at the heart of what we are doing and thanked all volunteers in achieving this aim. She was delighted that 'Silver' had continued in her role and hadn't walked away after her 6 month acting role. She indicated in reading the annual report that you are doing amazing things. She mentioned that there has been a growth in membership and that Wales is up by 3 % . She continued that 'Transformation' is taking effect and highlighted her thanks to everyone stating 'You are making a difference, she continued in her theme as to why we do what we do; and the excitement in young peoples voices when the actually achieve, concluding with; we all have memories of young people who say what we have done to help them. Our leaders are brilliant and inspiring, thank you all.

11. Prasentations. There were no presentations. The Chair in closing the meeting, asked the Area President if he wished to make any remarks to which he replied that he was proud to be a member of an association that does so much for young people. The Chair thanked the new Area Commissioner for what she had achieved in her short time and also the Chief Commissioner, Rhian, in her skill at getting people 'to do,. In conclusion he thanked everyone for what they are doing and looked forward to another year.

Gwent Scout Report from Chair Over the past year, I have been able to work very closely with our Lead Area Volunteer Elizabeth O'Malley,who has done sterling work for the area. Having said that, I must also thank you all for the time, dedication and joy you instil in your groups and districts. I know that the young people you deal with today will have etched in their memory their time in scouting. As you are aware transformation has been an interesting journey but going forward hopefully it will level itself out. Over the past year I have attended some events but due to my volunteering commitments I have been unable to attend some, but I must highlight that I did attend Newport St George's Day parade and an award ceremony at Newport AGM. One of the highlights was attending Founders Day at Westminster Abbey which was a proud moment to see so many young people from across Wales taking part. I would like to take this opportunity of thanking the area trustee board for their support and guidance the Botany Bay team for their dedication in maintaining the site the District and Area Leads for their determination and my thanks to Mike Brakewell and Elizabeth for their friendship and guidance. In closing and thanking everyone please keep doing the fantastic job you are doing because you are all part of the future of Scouting. Edward

Scouts Gwent Area Lead Volunteer Report Gwent Area AGM 19th June 2025 AGM time always gives us an opportunity to reflect on what has happened over the last year and to think about the year to come. The last year has brought many challenges as we work through transformation and moved to the new online system, we have had our fair share of teething problems but hopefully we are all now getting more used to the system and can see the light at the end of the tunnel, all adult members having to redo the new online safety by 14th July has been a challenge and we continue to ensure that we support all adults to meet this deadline. I would like to thank all of our Area Trustee Board for their support and dedication to the Area and as always I must express particular thanks to both Edward Watts and Mike Breakwell for their constant support and guidance since taking on the role. The Area team had started to develop so alongside myself. we know have. Billy Calladine and Bella Watkins as Youth Leads, Pete Sheppard as Volunteer and Development Lead, Keith Fernandez as Programme Team Lead and Dylan Murray for Special Projects. Gwent Area has remained stable in its membership of Youth members and a slight increase leader membership this is due to the hard work of many leaders and parents. Our youngest section continues to grow with more Dreys having opened this year with an engaging active programme seeing demand for spaces sti51 increasing and our numbers within Explorers has also increased. We still have large waiting lists in some locations and so there is still a need for recruitment of volunteers. Our young people have had amazing opportunities at group, District and Area level with many badges along the way. Again. we have been honoured to present some of the very top award, 4 Kings Scouts Awards and some DofE Golds, the recipients have attended Windsor and Buckingham Palace respectively to celebrate their achievements. There have been many things to celebrate over the last 12 months - the amazing activities, trips and learning of new skills which our young people have experienced. Gwentrek 2024 was a fantastic event, and this year promises to be just as great, event team are working hard to ensure the weekend runs smoothly as always, I have also discovered a new talent of two of our DLVS in song writing reflecting on events. During the year members of Area have attended Summit 25 to help shape the future of Scouting and a delegation of 4 young people representing all 4 Districts accompanied by Bella travelled to OxFord University to join members from across the UK to ensure Youth Voice also shapes the future.

Despite all the changes our compliance for mandatory on-going learning remains in a good position thanks to monitoring and District Lead Volunteers and Area Team. This will always remain a focus to ensure we are delivering safe scouting for all our members. It leaves me to thank a few people this year as they leave us from their current roles, firstly thank you to Chris Owen-Brookes who has been our Area Treasurer over the last few years. Chris has decided to step down at this AGM but will remain in the Support Team at Area level, thank you for all your efforts. Secondly. we are losing 2 of our DLVS this year. both Elaine Burrill for Torfaen and Steve Crowley for Newport have reached the end of their 10-year tenures as DLVS. Both have had massive impacts in their respective Districts, due to their leadership and visions. Both will be very missed however will remain active in Scouting in new roles. We have Thank you gifts for them but sadly neither are able to attend tonight so we will arrange for these to be presented at a suitable time. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in Scouting within Gwent for everything that you do, whether its weekly, monthly, or just once a year. As Baden-Powell said, "My belief is that we were put into this world of wonders and beauty with a special ability to appreciate them, in some cases to have the fun of taking a hand in developing them, and also in being able to help other people instead of overreaching them and, through it all, to enjoy life - that is. to be happy.. And surely this is still what Scouting is all abouL Silver Elizabeth O'malley Area Lead Volunteer

REGISTRATION OF MEMBERSHIP AREA SUMMARY SECTION 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 +i- uirrel Scouts Blaenau Gwent Monmouthshire ort Torfaen Beaver Scouts Blaenau Gwent Monmouthshire Newport Torfaen Cub Scouts Blaenau Gwent Monmouthshire ort Torfaen Scouts Blaenau Gwent Monmouthshire ort Torfaen lorer Scouts Blaenau Gwent Monmouthshire ort Torfaen Seout Network Blaenau Owent Monmouthshire ort Torfaen Adult Blaenau Gwent Monmouthshire ort Torfaen TOTALS 10 72 70 12 88 69 25 18 45 14 [phone] 87 138 74 ?? 34 243 255 111 44 234 236 106 45 211 227 127 ?05 98 67 321 255 144 32 246 208 89 33 280 265 115 49 287 321 100 62 310 289 124 49 298 298 112 56 254 210 96 25 213 202 90 31 ?81 27 270 259 85 36 298 284 86 35 260 281 90 84 12 74 52 23 same 61 41 15 77 47 29 94 47 26 90 57 23 117 60 31 10 18 30 20 14 16 12 ?7 14 28 13 27 37 15 +10 same 95 258 260 137 70 236 251 128 61 ?69 254 1?2 52 268 278 115 58 296 271 123 68 332 265 125 -kl0 +36 Area Blaenau Gwent Monmouthshire ort Torfaen 34 287 1100 1014 542 38 142 857 856 408 45 154 1157 1022 456 27 178 1235 1187 450 29 221 1327 1209 467 24 220 1360 1200 510 +33 +4_3 AREA TOTAL 2982 2301 2834 3077 3253 3260 +7

Scouts Volunteering Development report 2025 Gwent This is my final report as Area Training Manager, but also my first as Volunteering Development Team Leader, as roles and responsibiLities were re-organised nationaLLy at the end of 2024. 2024 was probably the hardest year for volunteers whose role is to support other volunteers, for a very long time. The inquest into the tragic Loss of Life of an Explorer Scout on the Great Orme some years previously was foLlowed by the necessary, but very chaLLenging and time consuming "Rapid Assurance" work, where we along with all other Scout bodies had to prove to Headquarters that processes and training requirements were being complied with. In August, first aid rules were changed, with a retrospective re-vaLidation of aLI external first aid certificates being required, aLong with an additionaL data management task of confirming those who had completed First Response on one-day courses. Further to this was the push to get Compass data reviewed and updated to a state that would support the migration to the new digitaL systems, and the Volunteer Experience transformation. Everyone WILL be acutely aware that the Launch of the new digital tooLs did not go as we'd have wanted, with particular probLems with processing disclosures impacting Gwent, n the first half of the year. continued to run our usual caLendar of 'muLti moduLe' weekends, and the SkiLLs for Nights Away weekend, along with a smaLL number of virtual Learning workshops in evenings. Demand for first aid training has continued, and 8 First Response courses were run for adult voLunteers and Young Leaders throughout the year, as well as commissioning an externaLly-run Outdoor First Aid course. Now that aLL those voLunteering in Programme roles working directly with young people are required to hold first aid, as predicted we are seeing an increase in demand. and are stiLL working to increase the number of First Response trainers to accommodate this. Scoutscymru now have a regular programme of the blended approach for first aid. and we have supported the short assessment part of this LocaLLy on demand where required. In September we ran another Achieving Growth workshop for those in managerlsupporter roles. A small handfuL of key volunteers were able to finish their Wood Badges before the deadLine as a resuLt. A5 before, we continued to support LocaL validation events where requested. and this has aLso Led to the completion of many Wood Badges, with a number pushing to finish before the changes. The remainder of 2025 WILI see new processes bedding in, the transition from "training" to "Learning continue, along with expansion of the Volunteering Development Team. Peter Sheppard, VoLunteering DeveLopment Team Leader June 2025

Wood Badge roll of honour Congratulations to the foLLowing on being awarded their Wood Badge during 2024". Chris Arthur Claire Thornhill Shelley Clark Sophie Horseman Rhys Morgan 1st CaerLeon (Newport) 28th Newport 26th Newport 1st LLanyravon (Methodist) The Abergavenny Scout Group 28th Newport 28th Newport 28th Newport The Abergavenny Scout Group 1st Rogerstone 1st Panteg (St Marysl 25th Newport (St Mary's) Scout Group 1st CaerLeon (Newport) The Abergavenny Scout Group 1st Magor 1st Pontnewydd Section Leader - Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Scouts Damian Isaac Jane Cherrington Jane Cherrington Natalie Generalovic Dan Stephens Neil Bannister Kevin Gough Deputy Group Scout Leader Assistant Section Leader - Scouts Assistant Section Leader - SquirreL Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Section Leader- Beaver Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Scouts Section Leader- Cub Scouts Stephen Johnson Janet Horrell Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Rhys Williams Tanya Mills Nicholson Rhys Morgan Assistant Section Leader - Scouts Section Leader - Beaver Scouts The Abergavenny Scout Group 1st LLanmartin 1st GiLwern 1st Griffithstown Goyire Scout Group Newport Section Leader - Scouts Rebecca Radford Wendy Davies Ceiny Watkins Gareth James Michelle MacDonald Elaine Moore Matthew CaulfieLd Sam Hewitt Sam Hewitt Faye Mcintosh Peter MarteLL Christine Marchant Dawn Gould Amy Lougher Triona Lambert Claire Raymond Rhys Pritchard Robert Dunn Leah Cozzi Assistant Section Leader - Scouts Group Scout Leader Assistant Section Leader- Beaver Scouts Section Leader- Cub Scouts Assistant District Commissioner (Section Support) - Beaver Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Section Leader - SquirreL Scouts Asslstant Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Section Leader- Scouts Section Leader- Cub Scouts 24th Newport 1st Wyesham 1st BuLwark- Chepstow 1st BuLwark- Chepstow Ist14th AbertiLLery 26th Newport 1st Garndiffaith 1st. John's) BLaenavon Scout Group 1st Bassaleg 1st MarshfieLd 1st Magor 1st GiLwern 28th Newport Newport Assistant Section Leader- Beaver Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Cub Scouts Section Leader - Cub Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Cub Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Cub Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Cub Scouts Assistant District Commissioner Isection Support) Squirrel Scouts

Leah Cozzi Luke Sloan Tiffanie Shaddick Matthew Dawe Sarah Sloan Helen Fernandez Thomas Wakefield Rhys Lewis 28th Newport 1st CaerLeon Tredegar Park 1st Bassaleg 1st CaerLeon 1st Bassaleg 1st Panteg Assistant Section Leader - Cub Scouts Group Scout Leader Group Scout Leader Assistant Section Leader - Cub Scouts Section Leader - SquirreL Scouts Section Leader - Squirrel Scouts Assistant Section Leader - Scouts 22nd Newport (Christchurch) 25th Newport Group Scout Leader Cat Parsons Section Leader - Beaver Scouts Data only available for those holding an active role within Gwent when Compass closed in November 2024.

Botan Ba Cam site- Wardens Re ort AGM June 2025 Bookings have been strong again this year with the slte used most weekends in the spring, summer & autumn, and a couple of weekends a month during the winter. The majority of bookings are Scout & Guides group5, but we have a number of school groups using the site as a base for activities in the run up to the summer holidays, then a number of scout & guide groups using the site for summer camps during the holidays. The site remains a popular stop over for both Scout & School DofE groups. We have recently had four different special needs groups using the slte, one for day visits and others for overnlght stays. We had over 80 bookings durlng 2024, and currently have 60 bookings in the 2025 dlary so far. Servlce team Actlons taken Woodland The Tree Survey along the A466was redone in March, and we have had a number of trees professionally removed or pollarded, requiring traffic lights on the road. The Service Crew have dealt with a number of fallen or leaning trees in the woods. We have one tree leanlng Into the garden of our neighbours at Hazel Grove, and we are seeking quotes for professionally felling it. Brian Mahoney visited site in March to look over our woodland, and give us his thoughts on priorities for managing it. Brian spent many years working at a high level forthe Forestry Commission and NRW. His insight was very useful. We hope to put together an initial Woodland Management plan from this input, which will highlight the priority actions. Chris Stott has put up some new bird boxes around the woodland targeting a Blue Tits, Great Tits and Pied Flycatchers. The Service Crew are starting to attack the Balsam along the A466 again. It is encouraging to see only a few plants currently growing in the areas we focused on in the last two years, although we'll have to monitor over the summer to see what springs up. Having cleared the undergrowth over the winter months, we are now better able to get into the last area that we need to address, at the Brockwler end of the property. We do have an AONB volunteer group planning on joln me on Ih Thursday 5 June to help deal wlth that area. Bulldings We've had the annual fire extlnguisher check. the chimney has been swept and the log burner checked, and the annual PATtesting completed. A carpenter friend of the service team has repaired the balcony of Zena's chalet, replacing two uprights, and redoing the timber on which the balcony sits. We are trialling an anti-slip tape on the Lodge balcony- which can get slippery in the wet. We need to see how long the tape lasts. th l am still awaiting formal feedback from the Planning pre-App I submltted on 17 Jan'25, for a more permanent structure to replace the marquee roof, but have had an initlal telephone conversatlon wlth the planner, who believes that formal planning permisslon will be requlred due to being In an AONB. We managed to borrow a mini-digger, and have cleared the space at the back of all the cabins so that we can get access for the scaffold tower, and flat ground to use ladders safely, This should make the working at height necessary to clean and repair the roof slates, and get access to the gutters significantly safer.

Water system The main spring water settling tank has been cleared of sediment. Having been running the new UV filtration system for almost a year, we have made a tweak to the plumbing to avoid using the recirculation system, which was adding complexity. Both Building & toilet tap5 and the field tap5 are now pressuri5ed, and have UV on demand. This has needed the repair of a number of the field taps to cope with the increased pre55ure. One of the water troughs had rusted through. 50 has been replaced by a concrete trough. General We compared prlces With a number of similar campsites locally again in Dec'24- we are significantly cheaper than all of them - and therefore agreed price increases to start I, Jan'25. The last tlme we increased prices was l Jan'23. Although we said we'd review prices annually, I'm not proposlng to review them again until I" Jan'27. As always, the Service Team have been busy repairing fences & steps, clearing leaves from gutters, paths, car park & behind cabins and edging some of the paths in the woods to overcome the damage done by deer runs. The fencing and most of the cladding around the buildings have been creosoted. The paths around the buildings, and down to the Campfire Circle and Chapel have been strimmed, and the boggy patch of the orienteering course has been made easier to cross using rubble and by repairingthe handrail. A number of the altar fires have been repaired, the base of the hand trolley has been re-sheeted, and the Scout badge in the garden has been repaired and is being repainted. We have two new neighbours- both in Hazel Grove and In Craigo Farm. I met with them recently, and both expressed support for what the site is aiming to do. A number of the team have put specific detail about Botany Bay in letters sent to both Monmouthshire and South East Wales regional representatives in the Senedd to highlight the issues that the proposed Visitor levy will have on us- and to ask that not-for-profit organisations are exempt. Prioritles for future work l. Balsam is a big priority for the next three months, if we want to avoid the risk of the monoculture spreadlng up the hill. 2. Writing an initial Woodland Management Plan. and considering seeking funding for key actions is another priority. 3. The marquee roof replacement project will also be a focus for the coming months-getting a design, seeking planning permission, understanding the building regulations and seeking funding will all be priorities. Thin8s we need help with l. Implementlng a new booklng and Invoicing system is now an urgent need. 2. Attractlng more people to join the Servlce Team Dave PHIPPS 22. May 2025 Email: botan wal-den mail.com

Scouts Blaenau Gwent Gw¢nt DLV Report 2025 Blaenau Gwent Welcome to my first AGM as District lead. It's been just over a year since I took over the role from Amanda and if I said it's been the easiest year I've had that wouldn'tbe true I This past year has seen Scouting in the UK undertake many changes from tightening up of our processes and policies to transformation and from introduction of trustees to the new membership system. These changes have been difficult to implement all at once but I'm proud to say that A liL*A e i ia Ve thi Cdg¢ i i elatib'ell liri￿ ai i y IC41 1 teething issues but the light at the end is defiantly here. o vve a" Siiii i iaviiiy The District has welcomed the new structure and role titles with JamesPowell taking on the 14-24 Lead Role, Toni Senese taking on the 4-14 Lead Role and 411 I fclk4￿Y'I li iaHV iuIPibi iy i LIY C4Q Li IF vi anA De v'eivyi i lei itl I know you all will welcome and support our District Team and help them to allow us to work together as a united district providing amazing opportunities for ALL the young people regardless of group, unit or section. Both Cwm and Brynmawr have welcomed new Group Leads and I would like to congratulate them both and wish them best of luck in their new roles.

ni Ir nrnii h?iJp nrnihin thi¢ par aD.A moro i]01 Inn n¢thnple aro hon¢A!itring from tb. great scouting program however our leader numbers remain low, and this is influencing two of our groups. I've had the pleasure of meeting many of our young people of the last 12 months and +n e I Iririoa V 1 1 11+97 +￿air<￿•￿_￿Th a++i+i IA<J n a nf niir Inn nannla lan was fortunate to be selected by our Area Youth Leads to attend the first national youth forum held at Oxford University along with 3 others from Gwent a great day was had and amazing feedback from Jack. Thie Ek i ie+ Qf¥ni i+cniimri ni i+ nn i IIV i VWW4A&WWyiiII V I w¥'I of our explorers Kate has been chosen to attend I'm sure we will hear loads about this when she returns, and I wish her all the best and hope she has an amazing experience. The -,,e=t 4 ? skills as possible to provide the best experiences we can along with leader recruitment and support for all our adults. Please look out for our District calendar 2026 to see what we have planned. Thio+rin+ rtvhsls ￿￿111 k Aridoli iy vi i ¥vvi r%ii iy Vi G41 ial ifAI li i y ill￿11 IT illallyil HlVIIII)fl I IICIIITh yVi4 IV IIIF Llulylill lyltua uvaiu iui yvL41 SuvyGi i Lkie last year Gareth Haywood District Lead Blaenau Gwent

Scouts Monmouthshire 03, June 2025 nmouthshlre Dlstrlct Re ort for Gwent Area AGM 2025 2024-2025 has been a buoyant year for Scouting within Monmouth5hire and I'm pleased to be reporting another strong year,jam-packed full of even more adventure and excitement for our young people. Whilst our youth membership numbers dipped slightly, our success in recruiting more adult volunteers than ever before is continuing to support the delivery of our Skills for Life Strategy. Across the board, we have seen more events, more community engagement, and more activities thls year, surpassing all expettations. Summer 2024, for example, saw international Scouting being delivered on an epic scale with expeditions to the Kandersteg international Scout centre in Switzerland, an Explorer best expedition to Bulgarla, as well as a historical adventure to the Belgium Battlefields. In addition, we've had the pleasure of awarding the Kings Scout Award to two very deserving young people who have achieved the highest accolade for their hard work and dedication. S ulrrels Squirre15 continue to thrive in Monmouthshire and remain the sectson that is driving our highest growth in terms of both young people and adult volunteer. This year, we've celebrated openlng new Squirrels Dreys and held our first dlstrict events for the section including: a sports dayi in which the Squirrels competed in a range of typical and silly sports events; and a trip to Newport Wetlands, where the participants got to try out a range of nature- inspired activities such as pond dipping and birdwatching. In addition to this, Squirrels have become an embedded part of our group structures, undertaking a wealth of residentSal and practical activities. Beavers Beavers has remained our strongest section across distrlct wlth waiting list demand growing by the day. This year, the Beavers have had opportunlty to attend two district events alongside the Squlrrels (a sports day and a trlp to Newport Wetlands) whilst day-to-day we have seen sleepovers, basic skills evenlngs, a tonne of positive badge work, engagement within local communities with trlps to supermarkets and council services like the library, and plenty of silly and seasonal games. Monmouthshire District Scout Council Registered Address: The Oaklands, Gwehelog, Usk, Monmouthshire, NP15 IRT Registered Charlty Number 1013482 {England and Wales)

Scouts Monmouthshire Cubs Cubs has maintained healthy numbers throughout 2024-2025, with natural growth leading to the opening of two new sections across the districtl I'm also pleased to say that we have recruited new, additional Cub leaders in over half of the cub sections. On a weekly basis, we've seen Cubs out den building, learning basic camp and survival skills, camping, fire lighting, and much, much more. Cubs are also once again looking forward to the return of the Dlstrict Cub swimming gala in the autumn term, as well as Midsummer Madness to be held at Botany Bay in July. Scouts Lots of activlty has been ongoing withln the Scouts section, with the majority of groups now trying to achieve Dragon Awards and camping every month. In addition, we've seen Scouts making their mark right across Monmouthshire and beyond with groups heading as far afield as Belglum and Switzerland. Closerto home, groups have enjoyed canoeingi kayaking, dragon boatingp paintball, surfing, climbing, caving, abseiling, clay pigeon shooting and much, much more. l once again extend our gratitude to the Gwent Land Activities Team for enabling a number of the adventurous activities that we are able to offer to our young people. The Scouts have also enjoyed the return of Operation Nightmare, this year held at Botany Bay, and Gwentrek, the uptake for which was much greaterthis year with new groups entering teams. Monmouthshire District Scout Council Re8lStered Address: The Oakland5, Gwehelo8, Usk, Monmouthshire, NPIS IRT Registered Charity Number 1013482 (England and Wales)

Scouts Monmouthshire Network Network remains steady with little activity due to a lack of leadership team. This 15 something we are stlll hoping to address shortly wlth recruitment underway. Desplte this, Monmouthshire was able to celebrate both Benedict and Ellie recelvlng their King's Scout Awards, whilst Owen represented Scouting when receiving hls Gold DofE Award. Tudor Cule Cam slte Owing to slgnificant weather damage over the winter of 2023, Tudor Cule Campsite has had to remain closed on safety grounds; we simply can't guarantee the safety of the site at the present. An extensive programme of works is, however, ongoing to make the site safe and the site will not re- open until the risks have been properly mitigated. As part of these works, the public footpath has been secured and slgnage erected at all possible entrance points to the site, demarcating that entrance is not permitted without authorisation. Additionally, our storage shed has been relocated to a safer location on slte and we are ever thankful to the local community who continue to rally together behind the site and support it's upkeep Unfortunately, there 15 Still a lot of work to do but we endeavourto get the site back to being fully operation once again and once it is safe to do so. Monmouthshire District Scout Council Reg15tered Address: The Oaklands, Gwehelog, Usk, Monmouthshire, NP15 IRT Registered Charlty Number 1013482 (England and Wales)

Scouts Monmouthshire Ex lorers Like with the Scouts, lots of actlvity has been ongoing within our Explorer unitsl We've seen units partnering with their local Scout troops for international travels, allowing our young people to experience Kanderstag and Belgium. Whilst closer to home, units have also enjoyed more week-to-week activities including paddleboarding, climbingi scuba diving, dry slope tubing, clay pigeon shootin& and simplistic stress relieving sports* games and skills nights. In addition, record numbers have entered into events such as Operation Nightmare and Gwentrek- with more excitedly anticipating the upcoming Awesome Explorer event and Larkin jamboree. Plenty of young people have also been earning top awards and participating in DofE. To reiterate, we couldn't do half these things without the help of local community groups who are able to offer their time and knowledge to help shape our young members. Monmouthshire District Scout Council Registered Address: The Oaklands, Gwehelog, Usk, Monmouth5hire, NP15 IRT Registered Charity Number 1013482 {England and Wales)

Scouts Monmouthshire General We once again had very strong attendance at the district St George's day event and have seen buoyant growth off the back of it. Thi5 year, Monmouthshire Scouts took over Chepstow Castle and were joined by the Lord Lieutenant for Gwent, Brigadier Robert Aitken CBE to celebrate the patron saint of scouting. If anyone hasn't seen the media article released following the event- I strongly urge you to have read. It's a very nice piece that has captured the splrit of the event really well. htt s.llwww.monmouthshirebeacon.co.uklnewslscouts celebration-789091 ather-at-castle-for-st- eor 14 Monmouthshire Distrlct Scout Councll Registered Address: The Oaklands. Gwehelog, Usk, Monmouthshire, NP15 IRT Registered Charity Number 1013482 (England and Wales)

Scouts Monmouthshire Summa Overall. 2024-2025 has been a very strong year for Monmouthshire Scouts and this momentum continues to drive into 2025-2026. The return of larger events and more ambltlous endeavours has really picked up right across district and that is gratifying to see at all levels. In the time between writing this report. and the date of Gwent Area Scout Council's AGM, Monmouthshire will have hosted our largest event in the last five years to bring together nearly 450 young people at District Camp 2025. Being able to hold such an event only emphasises the amazing experiencesthat ourvolunteers provide young people every single day. I would like finish by extending a thank you to every single volunteer who continues to make such a difference to the live5 of young people across Monmouthshire. Monmouthshire District Scout Council Registered Address: The Oaklands, Gwehelog, Usk, Monmouthshire, NP15 IRT Registered Charity Number 1013482 (England and Wales)

Scouts Newp(Yt The past year in Scouting in Newport has been a year of change, as it has been for the other Districts of Gwent. We have seen the implementation of the Transformation Programme which is aimed at presenting Scouting in a more user-friendly light. As a society we are generally adverse to change, but the new format is here to stay so embrace it we must. When the digital platform was launched it was a headache for a lot of people. In readiness for this Kath and I put together a Transformation Presentation which we aimed to take to each Group in order for people to realise what the changes meant and what support was available to help them. Unfortunately not all Groups allayed themselves of the opportunity. As a result total implementation for some of them has been more difficult. Nevertheless progress in Newport has continued to be very good, but there is still a way to go. I feel I can say with some confidence that we have made considerable progress along the road of change. Let us not forget those that Newport said goodbye to - having "Gone Home" They gave a large part of their Sife to the merits of Scouting, Grateful appreciation will always be ours. Continued 5ucce5ses will be testament to their contributions. All the Section5 have continued to develop and evolve. We have seen a new Beaver Colony open up at 22 Newportthat are building well with new Leadership that have been added since the opening. Tredegar Park has opened a new Scout Troop.Again this is with additional Leader5. SeveralGroups are short of Leaders which is a very common factor. However with the right positive attention and use of the help and resources that are available these matters can be overcome. The youngest and newset Section- Squirrels continues to thrive. More Groups are stating an interest in opening as soon as new additional Leadership can be secured. nd Several Leaders including some GLV'S have decided to retire from Scouting. This is disappointing but no-one can question their decision because they have certainly "done their bit., But we have the GLV roles covered with new potential appointees, th One of the major successes this year for the Groups was the fact that 28 Newport secured a major grant from the National Lottery which allowed them to purchase their facility outright, with some additional small funding to allow some remedial buildinng work to take place. They have allowed the District Explorer 5ectionn to locate ann equipment stores in on theirproperty. Also they expressed a wish to install a professionnal climbimg wall on their premise5, but sadly there was not sufficient funding available. The District stepped in and offered to fund it from a very generous legacyof a very kind benefactor. This was on the understanding that the facility would be opened up to the whole District and the wider field of Scouting. l am very pleased to say that the construction has commenced. Once completed the facility can also be available for external bodies providing all criteria is met. Further change is afoot. As most are now aware my tenure as District Commissioner/Lead Volunteer officially came th tto an end on the 31, March.As there was no willing successor l agreed to extend until the 30 June. However this th clashed with my already planned tour which commenced on 28 May, Fortunately Kath was willing to cover in the interim. l am sure everyone will give her unsinting support as you have given me for the past ten years. I will not be going away butmy future involvement has not been finalised.

On a personal note. Thankyou Newport for all that you have given me I sincerely hope that you are able to continue to support my successor so that, together, you can further capitalise on our huge successes over the past decade. O I wish each and everyone all the very best in everything you do. Continue that train journey of ....,... .Adventure and Opportunity Steve Crowlev District Lead Volunteer Newport

Torfaen District Commissioner's Report- 2025 Scouts Torfaen The last year has been another fun packed year for our young people and everyone has certainly been busy around the district. The start of the year kicked off with a St George's camp at Silvercross site and a very successful weekend was had. The majority of the district attended and a full programme of activities was held including rifles, archery, hawks, muddy assault, zorbs, bushcraft and much more. In May the expLorers took part in the BristoL Monopoly run. Scores were not the best but hampered by not being locaLs and knowing locations nor the bus routes. Nevertheless, they aLI had a great day out. At the start of June the Cubs had their hike. Few groups took part in this event but for those that did it gave them a great experience of a Longer hike in more challenging conditions and the views from the hilLtops were amazing. Over the summer many of the groups ran summer camps. District organised a sociaL and skills camp for leaders at Victoria camp site to aLLow leaders to network and learn new skilLs. It was a small group but everyone who attended found this very useful. Definitely one to consider for future years. The autumn was started by a splattering of groups and individuals supporting GilweLI reunion. There was aLso a I contingent from the distrirt attending Gwentrek which was held at the Glanusk estate this time. This was a demanding hike and many found the hike a considerable challenge. In October the Zombie Run camp was resurrerted and was held again at Gilwern using the fieLds and woodLand around the area. Not only was there a great turn out from the district but we also had quite a few teams from neighbouring districts coming on board for this. AIL the Scouts had a good time completing the course but I think the leaders and Explorers had a better time dressing up as zombies and similar to run the event.

In November everyone took part in the usual Remembrance parades. Cubs took part in a brand- new event- Pinewood Derby- which was essentially a homemade Scalextric. Each team had to build a car to a given specification and decorate it. They were then raced down tracks to compete for the winning place. Lots of laughs, great camaraderie, and some leaders were already planning their next year's buildsl There were prizes for fastest, most economical and best decorated. WeLL done to Blaenavon for winning the Group trophy. In the run up to Christmas the Beavers had their movie night, and the Scouts took part in Jambowlree and the annual District ChristingLe service took place at Llanyrafon which was Lovely. The year ended with the usual Christmas Camp at Victoria site attended by a number of Scout troops plus the Explorers and others. Fellowship had their usuaL post-christmas meal The district held another projectiLes competition at the end of February but went one better this year by running it over two days and having a camping option as well. A good variety of disciplines was included such as rifles, knockdowns, crossbows and hawks. In March two of our young peopLe represented the district at the UK Youth Forum. It is good to see the district being represented at UK wide events. The year finished with a St George's camp actualLy in District for the first time. We were able to camp at Ty Poeth farm and enjoyed a wide range of activities over a lovely weekend. These included climbing waLI, canoeing on the canal, crate stacking, bushcraft and projectiles. In addition there was the opportunity to visit the farm, do an easter egg trail and learn about farm to food with our own chicken! The major event of this year has been transformation and this has provided many challenges for how we do our day to day Scouting. Fortunately, processes we already had in place served us welL to iron

out some of the issues but there are stiLI problems which are slowing the everyday Scouting down. l am sure in time these will be ironed out. Our numbers are stiLL on the up both with young peopLe and adults. The joining List ha£ a heavy pipeLine of young peoplé waiting to Start and ig kooping the older sections populated as well. We have also opened a second Cub pack at Pontnewydd and are poised to open a North Torfaen Squirrel drey based at Garndiffaith after the holidays. We also had our first King Scout awarded, a significant achievement as it is around 15 years since the last Queen Scout awards were given. I hope that more of our young members will follow Ben's lead and aim for these top awards. We have had a boostto funding through a larger grant this year so this has been used to make the Larger events accessible for all and also buy some Laptops for district and equipment for young members who may need support. We always Like to reflect on those who have gone home over the year and it was with sadness that we lost Rees Preston, Mike Assender, Mark Atkins and Josie Smith this year. A great thanks is given to alL those Leaders who have been doing a greatjob every week and giving up many of their weekends to run activities and camps. Seeing the young peopLe making progress and learning skiLLs for Life makes the efforts aLL worthwhiLe. Thanks also to aLL the support from trustee members, ASU members and other supporters. This is my last AGM as the district Lead volunteer and I have seen a Lot change in the Last ten years. What has not changed is the enthusiasm and excitement the voung people get from tsking part in alL the activities and camps and I hope Torfaen continues to flourish as a district and provide life changing experiences for all our young members. Yours in Scouting Elaine BurriLL, DLV

Scouts Gwent GWENT AREA SCOUT COUNCIL EIPTS AND AR I JANUARY 20 UNT UMMARY FOR ER 2024 2024 TotaL monetary receipts for the period 137.532 Total payments forthe period 139.818 Net receipts ft)rthe period -2,286 Bank, cash and depositfunds carried forward 106,080 These accounts were approved by the trustees of the Gwent Area Scout Council. Approved by the Trustees on: 2nd June 2025 Signed on their behalf by ustees: Il/,ryl . Edward Watts Area Chairperson Chris Owen-Brooks Area Treasurer

GWENT AREA SCOUT COUNCIL ECE YEAR NUARY 20 EMBER 202 Monetary receipts 2024 Totsl £ 2023 Total £ Scout Association Saving Fund CAF Fixed Interest Fund Investment (Note 31 325 336 58.104 Sub total- income from investments 58,765 Membership subscriptions Isee Note 21 Area events {see Note 41 Donations MisceLlaneous income (Note 5) 132,084 5.303 116.790 6.314 185 18 145 Sub totaL- other income 137.532 123,307 Total monetary receipts 137.532 182,072

GWENT AREA SCOUT COUNCIL PAYME TS FOR CEM 2024 2024 Total £ 128,415 261 407 2,600 6.494 654 144 185 640 18 2023 Total £ 115.645 743 314 755 8.161 546 Membership subscriptions {see Note 2) Insurance lequipmentl AGM expenses VoLunteer expenses Area eventslsee Note 41 Area office broadband Board of Trustee Meeting Venue Equipment purchases (see Note 61 InternationaL Fund Donations (see Note 7} MisceLLaneous Expenditure (Note 5) 1,563 2.535 Total payments 139,818 130,262 TATEMENT OF AS 31 DEC 2024 Total £ 97,081 5,806 3.193 31 DEC 2023 Total £ 97,576 6,554 4,237 Gwent Main Account GwentTraining Account Gwent Events and Activity Account Total assets 106.080 108,367

lanato Notes l Basis fac ntin The financial statements have been prepared on a receipts and payments basis using hi5toricaL costs. Gwent Area Scout CounciL meets the definition of a public benefit entity under the FinanciaL Reporting Standard applicabLe in the UK and Republic of IreLand. ember scri Membership subscription breakdown: Scouts Cymru Levy of £52.50 Gwent Area levy of £1.50 was paid on 2.446 youth members. tmen Gwent Area Scout Council hold no further investments 4 Area eve ts Activity & Events.. Young Leader residentiaL Young Leader training Gwentrek Land SASU activity Training SkiLL5 for nights away First aid training Adult training Archery Training co This reLates to payments received that have been paid to Gwent Area by mistake Scout Active Support Unit- Land. renewal of climbing equipment.

71nt rna l Fund Payments were made in Line with our internationaL fund to.. 2nd Caldicot I" Shirenewton Roverway AduLt Participant

GWENT AREA SCOUT COUNCIL TAN NUA Iv AMP EMBE ITE 02 Current Account INCOME(£) Brought Forward from 2023 30648.87 Site Fees 13892.98 Donations etc 710.95 Phone 00.00 Returned from Savings Account 50.00 45302.80 EXPENDITURE(£) Maintenance 1317.05 Refunds 105.00 Services 9601.85 Phone 340.69 Electric 2399.36 Equipment 3661.57 Badges 1019.94 (£18445.46) Transfer to Savings Account. 17532.94 Cash in Bank 31.12.24 9324.40 45302.80 Notes: Donations include:. Electrlc Wayleave, Water Payment, Legacy maintenan￿ includes:. Fenclng, palnting, step replacement and general repalrs. servi￿ include: Site Insuran￿, Gr355 Cuttingi Fire Safety, Electrical PAT Testlng, Wheelle Bins, Cesspit Clearance, Tree Survey, Chimney Sweep and Rates. Equlpment includes: Chaln Saw, Power Tools, Strlmmer, UV Sterillsation Unlt

Investment Account (cornmen￿d May 2024) INCOME Transferred from Current Account 17532.94 Interest 10.82 EXPENDITURE Returned to Current Account 50.00 Cash in Bank 31.12.24 17493.76 Secre rytrreasurer

Inde endent Examinerf Re 1055372 ort to the Tru ees of the Gwen out Council Char no I report on ihe accounts of the Aiea for the pefiod I lènuary 2024 to 31 Decembei 2024 which comprise the Statement of Financial Accounts and relaied notes set out in the preceding pages. This report is rnade solely to the bustee5 in accoTdance wtth Section 145 01 the ChaTrties Act 2011. My work ha5 been undertakon so that I might state to the charity's trustees those matteTS l am requirod to state to them in an Independent Examiner's report and for nts other purpose. To the futle5t extent penniLted by law, I do not accÈpL or asstjme responsibtliLy lo anyDI)e otl)ei thali Ilie charily and ilie charity's trtjstccs for my cxaminalion work. Ros1)L'clivo ie. Tl)e Area's trit5leos are rosponsiblo for tho propaTation of thc accounls. Tl)ey considor that an audit is not foquired for this year under Section 144 of the Chaiities Act 2011 (the Cliaritie5 Act) and il)at an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to.. xamine tho accounts under Section 145 of the Charities Act). to follow the proccduros laid down in the Gcneral Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under Section 14515llbl of the Charities Act).. and state wheiher p￿1￿Cular matters havc como to rny atlontion. Ba%is 1)f inilr.ppnilLirit PAciminiir s fQJl)Ufi My examination was caiaed out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Cominission. An exaininalion includes a review of the accounting records kept by tiie Area and a compai.ison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any iJnu5ual ilern5 QT disclosuTe5 in the accounts. and secking explanations from thc LrustCQ5 conceming any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not piovide all the evid@nce that would be required in an audit and con5cquently no opinion is gtven as to wliether the accounts present a'true and fair. view and Ihat Ihe report is limited to those matters set oul in tho slaLemen¢ beloiv. '¢,ImiTIL'r In connection with my examination. no matter has come to my attention.. which gives me reasor¢able cause to believe that in any material respect. the requirements to keep accounting record5 in accordance with soction 130 of ihe Charities ACL and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the actounting iequirements of the Cl7arities Act have not boon mot. or to whrch. in my opinion. attention should be drawn in Order to enable a proper understsnding of the accounig to be reached. Name: Relevant professional qualificationlsl or rtjenibership of professional bodies lif ènyl.. A i114rf Address: Dale-