North Leeds District Scout Council Trustee Report and Annual Statement of Accounts Year ending 2024/25
29[th] October 2025
Chair’s Report
As we reflect on another year, it is again with gratitude that I present this Chair’s Report for the North Leeds District Scout Council.
for 2025–26, supported by the groundwork already completed.
Governance and Financial Stewardship
The year 2024–25 has been one of steady delivery and continued commitment from volunteers across North Leeds. While development has been quieter than in previous years, the strength of our core Scouting provision has remained clear, with hundreds of young people taking part in highquality programmes each week.
Membership and Engagement
This year’s census shows a District that is broadly stable. Total membership stands at 1,928 , almost unchanged from last year. Youth membership saw a small decrease of 12 , largely due to reduced Cub numbers, though this was balanced by growth in Squirrels, Scouts and Network. Adult membership increased to 441 , strengthening leadership and governance capacity across our Groups.
Waiting lists reduced significantly by 102 , particularly in Beavers and Cubs. Growth in Squirrel Dreys and Young Leader Units reflects renewed energy in early years and youth leadership pathways.
The Board remained stable throughout the reporting period, ensuring governance, finance and safety requirements were met. Our financial position remains strong, enabling us to support Groups and maintain essential services across the District.
After the reporting period , our Treasurer, David Goodall , stepped down. We thank David for his service; stabilising the Board will be a key focus for the year ahead. No significant safeguarding or safety incidents occurred during the year.
Public Benefit and Volunteer Contribution
Our activities continue to provide clear public benefit, enabling young people across North Leeds to gain skills for life in a supportive environment. This is only possible thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, who remain the backbone of Scouting in our District.
Looking Ahead
As we look to 2025–26, our priorities include:
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Stabilising the Board, including appointing a new Treasurer
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Delivering a practical District Strategy
Programme and Events
Two major District events in our Six Dales and Frosty Camp ran safely and successfully thanks to the dedication of our volunteers. Across the District, a number of young people and adults received awards, highlighting the ongoing impact of Scouting in North Leeds.
Wike Campsite
Wike continued to serve as a valued space for Groups throughout the year. While there were no major developments in 2024–25, the Steering Group and volunteers ensured Wike remained functional, safe and welcoming.
Strategic Developments
Progress on the District Strategy has been slower than hoped as volunteers balanced competing demands. This remains a priority
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Strengthening Group support and communication
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Increasing volunteer recruitment
-
Supporting continued membership growth, particularly in Squirrels, Scouts and Network
These priorities will help us build strong foundations for the future while continuing to deliver high-quality Scouting week in, week out.
In closing, my sincere thanks go to our Trustees, volunteers, Group teams, young people and supporters. Your dedication makes a real difference every day, and it remains a privilege to serve this District.
Thank you for your continued support.
Joseph Fletcher Chair
Who We Are & What We Do
Key achievements
- Total membership: 1,928 (–3 / –0.2%)
North Leeds Scouts supports hundreds of young people aged 4–25 across 19 Groups, Explorer Units, Young Leaders and Network. Our mission is to help young people gain skills for life through fun, challenge and adventure, while supporting volunteers to deliver great Scouting week after week.
Objectives and Activities
North Leeds District Scout Council exists to promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potential, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities. We do this by providing Scouting in accordance with the Purpose, Values and Method of The Scout Association.
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Youth membership: 1,487 (–12 / –0.8%)
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Adult volunteers: 441 (+9 / +2.1%)
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Waiting lists fell significantly by 102 (– 17.7%)
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Growth in Squirrels (+8), Scouts (+37) and Network (+14)
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Increased Young Leader participation (3 Units, up from 1)
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Successful District events: Six Dales & Frosty Camp
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Youth and adult awards presented across the District
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Wike continued stable operation
The trustees confirm they have had due regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit when planning the District’s activities and reviewing its achievements.
Our Purpose
We follow the Purpose and Method of Scouting as set out in The Scouts’ Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR), developing young people in physical, intellectual, social and spiritual dimensions.
Public Benefit
The Trustees confirm that they have complied with the Charities Act 2011 by having due regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.
Scouting in North Leeds is open to all. Ability to pay is not a barrier to taking part, and financial support is available where needed.
Highlights of the Year
The year 2024–25 was one of stability, safe delivery and continued volunteer commitment.
Membership (Census Summary 2025)
The 2025 Census provides a detailed picture of Scouting across North Leeds. Overall membership remains broadly stable, with small changes between sections and a positive increase in adult volunteers. Waiting lists reduced significantly this year, reflecting improved local capacity and Group efforts to expand provision where possible.
Youth Membership
Total youth membership stands at 1,487, a decrease of 12 (–0.8%) from 2024. While Cubs saw a notable reduction, several other sections experienced sustained or significant growth.
Youth Membership by Section
| Section | 2025 | 2024 | Change | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Squirrels | 32 | 24 | +8 | +33.3% |
| Beavers | 282 | 278 | +4 | +1.4% |
| Cubs | 417 | 483 | –66 | –13.7% |
| Scouts | 514 | 477 | +37 | +7.8% |
| Explorers | 188 | 197 | –9 | –4.6% |
| Network | 54 | 40 | +14 | +35.0% |
Growth in Squirrels, Scouts and Network demonstrates strengthening engagement in early years, core Scouting, and young adult participation. The reduction in Cubs reflects broader national trends and ongoing pressure on volunteer capacity in some Groups.
Youth Membership – Demographics
Gender breakdown (Youth)
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Male: 1,087
-
Female: 340
-
Self-Identify: 4
-
Prefer not to say: 56
These figures show a broadly consistent demographic profile to last year, with a slight increase in young people choosing not to state a gender identity.
Adult Membership
Adult membership increased to 441 , a rise of 9 (+2.1%).
Adult Membership by Role
| Role | 2025 | 2024 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leadership | 349 | 321 | +28 |
| Management | 18 | 18 | 0 |
| Support | 16 | 39 | –23 |
| Governance | 58 | 54 | +4 |
| District roles | 7 | 12 | –5 |
Leadership and governance roles saw the strongest growth, supporting operational resilience across the District.
Gender breakdown (Adults)
-
Male : 254
-
Female : 182
-
Self-Identify : 5
Waiting Lists
The total waiting list fell significantly from 575 in 2024 to 473 in 2025 (–102; –17.7%). This is a positive indicator of increased capacity and expanded provision within several Groups.
Waiting List by Section
| Section | 2025 | 2024 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squirrels | 92 | 100 | –8 |
| Beavers | 170 | 224 | –54 |
| Cubs | 119 | 145 | –26 |
| Scouts | 92 | 100 | –8 |
| Explorers | 0 | 6 | –6 |
The most significant improvements are in Beavers and Cubs, which account for 80% of the reduction.
The Explorer waiting list reduced to zero due to increased ESU capacity and more effective referral management.
Waiting List Demographics
-
Male : 395
-
Female : 114
-
Prefer not to say / self-identify : 27
This reflects trends similar to previous years.
District Administration Overview
The structure and size of the District changed only slightly.
Sections and Groups
| Category | 2025 | 2024 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squirrel Dreys | 3 | 2 | +1 |
| Beaver Colonies | 15 | 16 | –1 |
| Cub Packs | 19 | 21 | –2 |
| Scout Troops | 20 | 20 | 0 |
| Explorer Units | 10 | 10 | 0 |
| Young Leader Units | 3 | 1 | +2 |
| Total Sections | 68 | 70 | –2 |
| Groups | 19 | 20 | –1 |
Increases in early-year provision and Young Leader Units reflect strategic investment in the future volunteer pipeline. Reductions in Beaver and Cub sections are linked to local volunteer pressures, consistent with national challenges.
Summary
The 2025 Census presents a District that is stable overall, with encouraging growth in several key areas. While some sections experienced decline, the general trend shows improving capacity, stronger leadership, and widening participation across the age range.
North Leeds Scouts is well-positioned for 2025–26, particularly with growing early-years provision, increased Young Leader engagement, and a robust core Scout section.
Our Activities & Impact
North Leeds Scouts is built on the weekly delivery of a varied programme by our Groups and Units. This is supported by District-run events and volunteer training, which together provide a rich, balanced Scouting experience.
Programme and Events
This year saw the return and strengthening of key activities:
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Six Dales, a long-standing endurance challenge, was delivered safely with strong youth participation.
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Frosty Camp continued to offer winter camping and outdoor skills in a controlled and safe environment.
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Groups across the District delivered camps, hikes, sleepovers, community projects and badge programmes throughout the year.
A number of young people completed top awards including the Chief Scout Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum, alongside continued participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.
Impact
Young people across North Leeds benefited from:
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Improved confidence and independence
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Enhanced teamwork and leadership skills
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Greater awareness of their local community
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Access to outdoor and adventurous activities
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Pathways into volunteering and leadership through Young Leaders and Network
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Strong volunteer support from the Steering Group
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Consistent bookings throughout the year
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Continued use by external partners and local schools
The foundations laid in previous years ensure the site remains safe, functional and ready for future development once volunteer capacity and funding allow.
Governance
North Leeds District Scout Council is governed by the Royal Charter, Bye-Laws and Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR) of The Scouts. Our Board of Trustees is responsible for ensuring good governance, financial oversight, safety, compliance and strategic planning for the District.
Throughout the reporting period, the Board maintained:
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Robust financial controls
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Compliance with safeguarding and safety requirements
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Oversight of Group governance and risk
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Management of District assets including Wike
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Support to volunteers and managers
Trustee recruitment remained stable during the year.
After the end of the reporting period, the Treasurer stepped down, and the Board will prioritise stabilising governance for 2025–26.
No significant safeguarding or safety incidents occurred during the year. Risks relating to volunteer capacity, finance and site management continue to be monitored.
Trustee Recruitment and Appointment
Wike Campsite
Wike remained an essential asset for North Leeds Scouts, providing camping space, indoor activity areas and a base for outdoor adventures.
Although there were no major developments this year, the site benefitted from:
- Regular maintenance and monitoring
Trustees are appointed in accordance with The Scouts’ Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR), which provides for ex-officio, elected, nominated and co-opted trustees.
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Ex-officio trustees serve by virtue of their appointment to certain roles within the District.
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Elected trustees are chosen at the District Scout Council AGM.
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Nominated trustees may be appointed by the District Lead Volunteer.
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Co-opted trustees may be appointed by the Board to fill specific skills needs or vacancies.
Property and Holding Trustees
The Scout Association Trust Corporation (TSATC) acts as the holding trustee for property belonging to the District, including Wike Campsite. Operational management of the site remains the responsibility of the District Board of Trustees.
The charity does not act as a custodian trustee on behalf of any other organisation.
North Leeds Distrirt Scout Council - Summary of Income and Expenditure Year 2024125 Generdl Fund5 De5igrwted Fund5 cLydIdated Ac(ts TL*al OPENING BALANCE 10267.97 301184.49 s4,(3.85 124,956.31 INCOME meMbeh•P Fees Membership Fees Net County & IIQ Fees ESU Subs Net ESU meMbehIp Fees Member5htp Fee5 5ubtotol 72,575.C(I 69.2£.50 3.9.c 76,565.00 69.260.50 24,818.85 10.251.42 14 567.43 1314.50 2£871.93 Sectionol Income Beavers Cubs Scouts Sertionnl Iorne Suljtotol 0.00 0.00 Event Fees Trading P05t FourMter5 Post Cubs cle Event Aldwark Camp Water Artivity WeekerKI Frosty Camp Con501idated Acct5 Evenl IrKome Event Fees 5ubtotol 0.00 327.50 3.330.00 4,111.00 327.50 3.330.C(J 4,111. I.•3.12 70.577.47 70.577.47 9Jn.62 79.949.09 Groups Scotland Wood Subs ScotlarKI Wood Others 1.326.03 1,377.51 2703.54 1.326.03 1,377.51 thjnations Interest- General & Designated FurKIs Interest- Consdidated Funds Wike Iorne Badge Sale5 oiher 171.IXI 2,534.24 171.00 2,534.24 0.00 19.588.48 3,596.50 58.00 19.588.48 3,596.50 53.C 23237.98 2.710.24 NET TOTAL INCOME Money Collected for oiher5 TOTAL INCOME 1539636 6VJ3S4 108382.88 130,472.78 500.00 130.972.78 636 6.69354 108.382.88
Annual Accounts Annual Accounts (cont.)
North Leeds District Scout Council - Summary of Income and Expenditure Year 2024125 EXPENDITURE Opemtlontsl Costs General FurKb Designatsd Funds Cortsdidated Totsl Member Expenses IT iOsm Meetins Expenses Other Operatio1 Costs ESU Rents ESU Activitie5 ESU Other Ba(Èe Purchases Opertttional Costs 5ubtotol 1.541.17 30.11) 1.541.17 30.(K) 2.942.(KJ 66.757.43 4,249.35 2.970.23 76.919.01 2.942.LX) 66,757.43 4,249.35 2.970.23 78 490.18 sn.17 SectionolActivities Beaver5 Cub5 Sco¢Jts SectionalArtivilies Subtotol (koo Evert Costs Trading Post Cub5 Founders Post Cubs C5tle Event AldwaTk Camp Water Activity WeekeMI Frosty Camp Con501idated Acct5 EntS Cost5 Event Artiviities Subtotal 78.50 78.50 44.08 202.50 2,706.47 4.091.75 202.50 2,706.47 4.091.75 834A6 10.984.20 10.984.20 10,984.20 18.942.36 7.95&16 ScotlatKI Wc(d Room Hire ScotlarKI Wood Other itle London R(Kbm Hire ttle London Other Groups Subtotol 320.C 2.327.$0 320.CQ 2,327.$0 2,647.50 2,647.50 Other Make It Hapn FuThJ Payments Wike Payments Jaml))ree Fund Payments Bank Fees MisLIaneoUS Written Off by Trustees OtheK Subtotol 1.SLX).¢J) 1,560. 1,200.LX) 1,2(X). 23.073.24 24573.24 60. 00 25A33.24 NETTOTAL EXPENDITURE ney Paid to Others .78933 2.64750 111476.45 13.436.83 soo.00 13.936.83 TOTAL EXpENDuRE 1128933 2.64750 112.476.45 NET BALANCE Transfers Funds BALANCE I475. -1.379.59 13.495.41 34.13053 14.879.59 49.010.12 80.51028 -13.500.C 67.01028 129.515.81 129.515.81
Annual Accounts (cont.)
North Leeds District Scout Council- Stalement of Assets and Liabilities- 2024125 r+nONETARY ASSErs General & Desgnated Fu nds Mame Transfs kn Transftrs Oirt Current Balènce Balarte Distrirt General Bea5 Cub5 scouts Make It HapFen Wike Development wor Scout Jamboree ScotLind W(xxl Sc(xrt Gr(¥up Disirfrt StraE¥ FUTh 10,267.97 251.35 75.49 1,722.57 4.502.63 IJ.OJO.81 1862.77 658.87 9.LKiI.LK) 84.616.86 80,422.25 479.91 0.00 47.09 D.00 0.00 13.015.00 21.00 0.00 4iM)O.00 5.047.(B 251.35 13,495.41 0.00 0.00 O.DO 4,502.63 25.688.31 5,211.27 607.91 13,WO.00 L722.57 1.662.50 2,327.50 2,703.54 2,112.50 642. T(al Ger£ral Fd5 4tTr.351.46 IX.495.41 91.IIOAO 82.657.33 Denated FLmd5 21J63.01 49ItIO.12 7.663.01 Total 615DS.53 615DS.53 General & Designated Bank Accounts OKnir Balanie 1,214.tK) 4.0¢5.11 35.093.35 40.352.46 ctTent Balance 1,769.16 4,706.23 56,030.14 61505.53 Name kntcme EMndituTe Transfers In Transfus Out CAF Current CAF Savin65 COIF GenEral Reset¥e 88,M.54 117.13 2.402.73 91.310.40 82,657.33 24.308.94 10.352.93 18.534.06 53.195.93 29.886.99 9.808.94 0.00 39.695.93 8257.33 Consolidated Bank kcounts Oltr.8 Balante 1,$5D.14 23,024.08 1,865.51 Current Bal3nte 1,320.DI 7,539.32 -508.22 Name Income EMrltUre TraIrerS In Trnn5fers (Mrt 6 Dales Wike Trmpsite Badge Secretary 729. 19,588.48 3..50 959.13 23,(t73.24 4,470.23 IXKN).(MJ .ow. L5LXJ, The 6LK>nies, mariCkS & Irsert Name e Blacb5heep Fadi[leY Hea(5ngley FridaPirates The Marmots RoutKlhav GSAL Red te 28,9Z7.14 24.253.93 3.165.07 I.2.[) 876.51 1.3(FJ.50 1.438.55 1,376.fMI 16.578.49 43. 97 7.178.35 I2..50 84.6r8.84 108.3F2.88 19,418.J4 923.(X) 1,244.87 974.CKJ 49.924.52 11.489.32 112.476A5 33,762.93 3,478.07 941.14 [840.55 9,960.94 8.675.53 67.010.27 Trtal I.00 14500.00 TOTAL WK)NETARY ASSETS 124.956.30 199,693.28 195,133.78 54.195.93 54,195.93 129,515.80 OThER NETARy ASSErs outstar1 Lbt5 from Badge Sale5 .28 274.04 M(ETARy ASSETS Badge SecrEary Stk 3,Oll.36 Wike Sile- Larwj and Buildires 28.(MM).(M) Wike Site- EquipmEnt 15.684.91 Wike Carnp Site- New T(xletlShNer Bl(rk 15,559.59 Totsl Mty*ary Assets 62377J6 2,764.46 28,WO.00 Il763.68 10,373.06 SI1.2 75% cf last yea[5 valuE Depretiated 25% TOTAL ASSETS 187.739.414 182.691.0 LIABILITIES Badge Stotk Purthase 516.43 0.00 ASSErs 187.223.01 182.691.0
Annual Accounts (cont.)
This Trustees’ Annual Report was approved by the District Board of Trustees
Signed on behalf of the Trustees:
_______
Joseph Fletcher Chair of Trustees
Independent Examination Unqualified report for a non-company chartty preparing receipts and payments accounts with a gross income of £250,000 or less in the relevant financial year Independent examiner's report to the trustees of North Leeds District Scout Council I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts ofthe North Leeds Distrirt Scwnt Council for the year ended 31'January 2025 Responsibilities and basis of report As the tharitytrustees of the North Leeds Distrirt Scout Council you are resrM)nsibleforthe ptepara1ion of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charibes Act 2011 Ilhe Art). I report in respect of my examinalion of the North Leeds Distrirt Scout Council accounts carried out under secbon 145 of the 2011 Art and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Direthons given by the Charity Commission under sertion 14515llbl of the ACL Independent examtner's statement I have completed my exarnination. I confimi that no material matters have come to my attention in connection wth the examination gwing me cause to believe that in any material respect accounting records were not kept in respeci of the North Leeds Distritt Scout Counal as required by section 130 oftheA¢or 2. the accounts do not accord wtth those records. I have no concems and have come across no Ot1 matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Sig Name.. .eLevant professional qualtficats.on or membership of professlonal tjodies Irf any): Addres5: ofLLy LS. &15£, Date.. -ILtlb*
Reserves Policy (Summary)
The Trustees maintain a Reserves Policy which requires each fund to hold reserves equivalent to its average annual operating costs. This level enables the District to operate for up to one year in the event of significant income disruption or while seeking alternative funding sources. The policy reflects the interconnected nature of Scouting charities across The Scouts and adopts a one-year reserve level rather than the Charity Commission’s general six-month guideline.
A full Reserves Policy was reviewed and approved by the Board in May 2024 and will be reviewed again in May 2026 ahead of the submission of the 2025/26 Annual Report and Accounts. The table below summarises the reserves position for each fund as at 31 January 2025, together with actions agreed by the Trustees where
funds are above or below the in-principle reserve level.
The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties regarding the District’s ability to continue as a going concern, nor were any funds materially in deficit at the year-end.
General & Designated Funds (Managed by the Board of Trustees)
| Fund | Average Annual Operating Costs |
Balance at 31st January 2024 |
Defcit/Surplus Against Average Annual Operating Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| General and Designated Funds Managed Directly by the Board of Trustees | |||
| District General Funds | 8,000.00 | 13,495.41 | 5,495.41 |
| Make It Happen Fund | 1,500.00 | 4,502.63 | 3,002.63 |
| Wike Development Fund | 0.00 | 25,688.31 | 25,688.31 |
| World Scout Jamboree | 0.00 | 5,211.27 | 5,211.27 |
| Scotland Wood Scout Group | 2,000.00 | 607.91 | -1,392.09 |
| District StrategyFund | 0.00 | 13,000.00 | 13,000.00 |
| Consolidated Funds Managed by Others Groups Through the Year. | |||
| 6 Dales | 1,000.00 | 1,320.01 | 320.01 |
| Wike Campsite | 10,000.00 | 7,539.32 | -2,460.68 |
| Badge SecretaryAccount | 4,500.00 | 991.78 | -3,508.22 |
| The Goonies inc Mavericks | 10,000.00 | 33,762.93 | 23,762.93 |
| BlacksheepHeadingley | 1,000.00 | 3,478.07 | 2,478.07 |
| HeadingleyPirates | 800.00 | 941.14 | 141.14 |
| The Marmots Roundhay | 1,200.00 | 1,840.55 | 640.55 |
| GSAL ESU | 15,000.00 | 9,960.94 | -5,039.06 |
| Red Kite ESU | 9,000.00 | 8,675.53 | -324.47 |
Actions Agreed by Trustees
Above Reserve Level
-
District General Funds: £6,000 to be transferred into the District Strategy Fund.
-
Make It Happen Fund: No new income to be added until reserves return to policy level.
-
Wike Development Fund: Building intentionally for future site redevelopment.
-
World Scout Jamboree Fund: Building reserves for 2027 participant grants.
-
Goonies & Mavericks ESU: Holding funds for international trip and equipment; plan to reduce through activity subsidies.
-
Blacksheep ESU: Reducing reserves through contributions to community facilities, new equipment, and offsetting membership fee increases.
Below Reserve Level
-
Badge Secretary Account: Trustees to review appropriate stock and fund levels due to changes in badge purchasing habits.
-
Wike Campsite Operational Account: £3,000 transferred from the Development Fund to support unexpected site maintenance.
-
GSAL ESU: Trustees to support the Unit in reviewing income, expenditure and planned activity costs to rebuild reserves.
-
Scotland Wood Scout Group: Trustees to work with the Group on strengthening income and fundraising.
Administrative Information
Charity Name:
- Sophie De Naeyer – District Youth Lead
Independent Examiner
North Leeds District Scout Council
N J Russell ACIB
Operating Name:
North Leeds Scouts
Charity Number:
1085203
Principal Address:
34 Sunningdale Avenue, Leeds LS17 7SE
Bankers
CAF Bank 25 Kings Hill Avenue Kings Hill West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ
Legal Structure:
North Leeds District Scout Council is a charity established under the Royal Charter of The Scout Association and governed by its ByeLaws and the Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR).
Trustees for the Reporting Period
The trustees have not made use of any exemptions from disclosure.
(1 February 2024 – 31 January 2025)
-
Joseph Fletcher – Chair
-
David Goodall – Treasurer (served during the reporting period; resigned after yearend)
-
Mark Sergent
-
Frey Wilson
-
Gareth Shaw
-
Ann McKenna
-
Gill Marshall
Ex-officio Trustees (as required under POR):
- Stacy Wilshaw – District Lead Volunteer