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2023-03-31-accounts

Trustees’ Annual Report to the Charity Commission for the period from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023

Charity name: British Scouting Overseas Area Scout Council

Charity registration number: 1151702

United Kingdom Scout Headquarters registration number: 10000205

Objectives and Activities

SORP reference
Summary of the purposes of
the charity as set out in its
governing document		 Para 1.17 The Purpose of Scouting
Scouting exists to actively engage and
support young people in their personal
development, empowering them to make a
positive contribution to society
The Values of Scouting
As Scouts we are guided by these values:
Integrity- We act with integrity; we are
honest, trustworthy and loyal.
Respect- We have self-respect and
respect for others.
Care- We support others and take care of
the world in which we live.
Belief- We explore our faiths, beliefs and
attitudes.
Co-operation - We make a positive
difference; we co-operate with others and
make friends
Summary of the main
activities in relation to those
purposes for the public
benefit, in particular, the
activities, projects or services
identified in the accounts.		 Para 1.17 and
1.19		 The Scout Method
Scouting takes place when young people,
in partnership with adults, work together
based on the
values of Scouting and:
- enjoy what they are doing and have fun
- take part in activities indoors and
outdoors

We prepare young people with skills for life

- learn by doing
- share in spiritual reflection
- take responsibility and make choices
- undertake new and challenging activities
- make and live by their Promise
Statement confirming
whether the trustees have
had regard to the guidance
issued by the Charity
Commission on public
benefit		 Para 1.18 British Scouting Overseas meets the
Charity Commission's public benefit
criteria under both the advancement of
education and the advancement of
citizenship or community development
**headings **

Additional information (optional)

You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

SORP reference
Policy on grant making Para 1.38 The charity makes limited grants of £100
to assist in opening new Groups and new
Sections of existing Groups. The policy is
defined in the charity’s internal document
dealing with Governance and Compliance
Policy on social investment
including program related
investment		 Para 1.38
Contribution made by
volunteers		 Para 1.38 British Scouting Overseas is entirely
volunteer managed and led. It is our policy
that no volunteer should be out of pocket
as a result of their voluntary work with the
charity. However, our volunteers often
donate financially as well as giving their
time and skills
Other

Achievements and Performance

SORP reference Summary of the main achievements of the charity, Please refer to the attached copy of our identifying the difference the Annual Review charity’s work has made to the circumstances of its Para 1.20 beneficiaries and any wider benefits to society as a whole.

Additional information (optional)

You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

Achievements against
objectives set		 Para 1.41 See above
Performance of fundraising
activities against objectives
set		 Para 1.41
Investment performance
against objectives		 Para 1.41 The charity does not have sufficient funds
to invest in longer term investments. The
charity has therefore adopted a risk averse
strategy to the investment of its funds. All
funds are held in a mainstream bank
Other
Financial Review
Review of the charity’s
financial position at the end
of theperiod		 Para 1.21 The trustees are of the view that the
charity is sufficiently resourced
Statement explaining the
policy for holding reserves
stating why they are held		 Para 1.22 The charity’s policy on reserves is to hold
sufficient resources to continue the
activities of the charity should income fall
short
Amount of reserves held Para 1.22 Three months’ operating costs minimum
Reasons for holding zero
reserves		 Para 1.22
Details of fund materially in
deficit		 Para 1.24
Explanation of any
uncertainties about the
charity continuing as a going
concern		 Para 1.23

Additional information (optional)

You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

The charity’s principal
sources of funds (including
any fundraising)		 Para 1.47 Membership subscriptions
Investment policy and
objectives including any
social investment policy
adopted		 Para 1.46
Para 1.46 The trustees have identified the major risks
to which they believe the charity is
exposed and have compiled a risk register,
A description of the principal
risks facing the charity		 which is reviewed regularly, so that
mitigating activities can be evaluated
The charity has in place systems of internal
controls that are designed to provide
reasonable assurance against material
mismanagement or loss, these include two
signatories for all payments and
comprehensive insurance policies to
ensure that insurable risks are covered
The risk register covers risks under the
following headings:
- external risks (including reputational)
- regulatory and compliance risks
(particularly safeguarding and data
protection)
- financial risks
- operational risks (particularly health and
safety and loss/damage toproperty)
Other

Structure, Governance and Management

Description of charity’s
trusts:		 British Scouting Overseas is a trust
established under its rules which are
common to all such units of The Scout
Association
Type of governing document Para 1.25 The governing documents of British
Scouting Overseas 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
The charity has also adopted a Governance
and Compliance document to supplement
the above
How is the charity
constituted?		 Para 1.25 Unincorporated
Trustee selection methods
including details of any
constitutional provisions e.g.
election to post or name of
any person or body entitled
to appoint one or more
trustees		 Para 1.25 Election of six trustees (three-year terms,
with option for a further term of three
years, staggered retirement) plus the
Secretary and Treasurer: by the Council
(representing the membership and
supporters of British Scouting Overseas)
plus nomination at the AGM of the Chair
and up to six others with appropriate skills
and experience

Additional information (optional)

You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

Policies and procedures
adopted for the induction
and training of trustees		 Para 1.51 The charity provides induction and training
for trustees by using the materials and
facilities of The Scout Association,
including an initial programme tailor-made
for trustees in The Scout Association
The charity’s organisational
structure and any wider
network with which the
charity works		 Para 1.51 The charity operates as part of the
organisation and structure of The Scout
Association
Relationship with any related
parties		 Para 1.51
Other

Reference and Administrative details

Charityname British Scouting Overseas Area Scout Council
Other name the charityuses British Scouting Overseas; BSO
Registered charitynumber 1151702
Charity’s principal address The Secretary
British Scouting Overseas
69 Five Ashes Road
**CHESTER CH4 7QS **

Names of charity trustees who manage the charity

Trustee name Office (if any) Dates
acted (if
not for
whole
year)		 Name of person (or body)
entitled to appoint trustee (if
any)
Alex Hadley Nominated Commissioner
Alice Mintoff Elected Council
Anthea Meijer Nominated Commissioner
Anthony Dunn Elected Council
Becca Felgate Nominated Commissioner
Ben Balaam Treasurer Ex officio
David Bull Secretary Ex officio
Dylan Burrows Nominated Commissioner
Jan Miller Elected Council
Jane Warne (Chair) Nominated Commissioner
Matt Lightfoot Elected Council
Nathan Prince Commissioner Ex officio
Robin Ngeow Co-opted Trustees
Sandro Pace-Bonello Elected Council
Sarah Webber Elected Council
Sébastien Eldridge Nominated Commissioner
Victoria Mitchell Nominated Commissioner

Corporate trustees – names of the directors at the date the report was approved

None
Name of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charity
Trustee name Dates acted if not for whole
year
None

Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others

Description of the assets
held in this capacity		 Not applicable
Name and objects of the
charity on whose behalf the
assets are held and how this
falls within the custodian
charity’s objects
Details of arrangements for
safe custody and
segregation of such assets
from the charity’s own
assets

Additional information (optional)

Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)

Type of Name Address adviser Not applicable Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional information)

None

Exemptions from disclosure

Reason for non-disclosure of key personnel details Not applicable

Other optional information

Not applicable

Declarations

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

Signatures: Jane Warne David Bull Full names: Jane Warne David Bull Position (eg Secretary, Chair Secretary Chair, etc): Date: 26 September 2023

British Scouting Overseas Annual Review 2023

Year ending: March 2023 Published: August 2023

_Miiii

Words from the Area President "Doing your best means much the same thing, no matter where in the world you may live, and how old you might be"

Integrity Respect Care Belief Co-operation

By John May OBE DL

It’s been an absolute pleasure, and actually rather a privilege, to follow the various goings on within the Area over the last twelve months. I’ve seen reports of weekly meetings, bringing young people together in challenge, fun and friendship. I’ve seen pictures and read diaries of camps, expeditions and adventures. I’ve been on Zoom with a number of Groups and Districts, celebrating the successes of young people from every corner of the world. And, just a couple of weeks ago, I was lucky enough to spend an hour or so with members of British Scouting Overseas’ Unit to the World Scout Jamboree, after the evacuation from the campsite and the relocation of the event to Seoul.

On each occasion, I’ve been struck by a number of things. Firstly, that Scouting is as relevant as ever, genuinely helping young people build those skills for life that we all like to mention when talking to parents, schools and the general public. Secondly, it continues to be engaging, challenging and fun, thanks to the tireless efforts and enthusiasm of the adults who choose to volunteer, week-in, week-out. And thirdly, it transcends national barriers, cultures and creeds. Doing your best means much the same thing, no matter where in the world you may live, and how old you might be.

I remain extraordinarily proud to act as your President. The youth work that I see within British Scouting Overseas is second to none, and I love to see the impact that it has on everyone involved. Thank you for all that you do to support young people. You really are, truly, amazing.

John May Area President

Area President

4

Words from the Area Chair "British Scouting Overseas is passionate about the contribution that young people provide in decision making"

Integrity Respect Care Belief Co-operation

By Jane Warne

The Area Trustee Board has had a busy year supporting volunteer line managers in their roles of providing fantastic opportunities for young people. Being a trustee is a privilege and provides a backbone of support, in relation to financial management, monitoring and evaluating risk to the Area and its members, recruitment and fundraising, as well as liaising with community stakeholders.

British Scouting Overseas is passionate about the contribution that young people provide in decision making, and the Area Trustee Board is no exception. Currently the board has 5 young members, whom we are all proud to work with.

This year, the trustees have worked hard in their support of the Area’s unit for the World Scout Jamboree, who I am sure you will agree, have been the most wonderful ambassadors for scouting, through considerable adversity. We have also worked with the Area Commissioner and his team in embedding the changes associated with The Scouts’ Transformation and have

implemented the changes required to remain compliant.

Being a trustee comes with considerable responsibility and requires a critical but supportive eye over the activities undertaken by the area. Working with these often unseen volunteers has been a joy and I am incredibly grateful for the time that each member of the trustee board gives in their support of scouting across the Area.

This year, Irene Orford stood down from Scouting, as she moves on to different ventures. On behalf of the Trustee Board, I would like to extend my thanks to Irene for her contribution to Scouting over the years. The Trustee Board also says farewell this year to Matt Lightfoot, Alice Mintoff and Sarah Webber, who reach the end of their terms of office, as well as to the nominated and co-opted members. No doubt a number will return to the Board for next year. Thank you all for all of your contributions and guidance during the year.

In particular, I would like to extend my thanks to Nathan Prince, the Area Commissioner for his tireless efforts and outstanding leadership of the wonderful area team. I would also like to make a special mention and express my gratitude to Ben Balaam, the Area Treasurer and David Bull, the Area Secretary. These gentlemen have supported my work as chair and that of the wider area immeasurably.

I look forward to the next year with British Scouting Overseas and to all of the opportunities that are young people are afforded, thanks to our wonderful team of volunteers.

Jane Warne Area Chair

Area Chair

6

Words from the Area Commissioner "By 2025 BSO will have prepared more young people with skills for life, supported by amazing leaders delivering an inspiring programme. We'll be growing, more inclusive, shaped by young people and making a bigger impact in our international communities"

By Nathan Prince

Time goes so fast and I find it hard to believe that this is my fourth year as Area Commissioner. I’m immensely proud of all that we are achieving across BSO and I think this past year has been incredibly successful for us.

Growth

I’m really pleased to report that due to some extraordinary efforts across our Groups, we have seen a huge increase in youth membership this year. The Area grew by almost 17% over the last year and we are now at about 2017 numbers with a total membership of 3,351. There are indications that we are on-track for another year of growth.

Since the launch of Squirrels for 4-6 year-olds last year, we have opened 8 Dreys in Naples, Kuwait, Brussels, Prague, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, The Falklands and Shape, with 6 more Dreys opening this year.

BSO @ Royal Events

Lying-in-state

Shortly after the death of our patron, HM Queen Elizabeth, The Scouts put out a call for volunteers age 18-25 to assist with managing the lying-in-state. BSO Scout Network member Zoe Baxter from Telstar Scout Group in Luxembourg was successful in the selection and helped with managing the massive queue of people. Zoë, who received her Queen's Scout Award in 2020, joined as a Beaver Scout at aged 7 and has been involved in Scouting ever since. She was also one of the Assistant Unit Leaders in our World Scout Jamboree Unit. As Scouts, we all promise to help other people and we are immensely proud of Zoë.

Coronation Weekend

BSO Network were well represented for the Coronation of The King in London on Saturday 6th May 2023. BSO had ten Network members camping at Gilwell Park. Several members were helping at Hyde Park staffing the big screens. Whilst others were making sure people knew where to go, helping with crowd control in and around Green Park. A London newspaper also featured our members in a great news article with our Network looking very smart indeed.

Area Commissioner

8

Strategy

The aim of BSO is:

“by 2025 BSO will have prepared more young people with skills for life, supported by amazing leaders delivering an inspiring programme. We'll be growing, more inclusive, shaped by young people and making a bigger impact in our international communities”

In February, we hosted an ambitious BSO Development Weekend where, nearly all of the Area team along with District Commissioners came together at Paccar Scout Camp (between Heathrow and London) to discuss and shape our future strategy. The weekend allowed us to work towards creating a refreshed Area strategy.

The top 10 issues that were identified were

Area Commissioner

9

Northern Europe District Camp 12-14 May

Camps and Events

2023 is one of the most exciting years for events in British Scouting Overseas’ history. This summer, our 40-person Jamboree Unit went to South Korea along with several BSO members on the International Service Team. 190 BSO members attended the Haarlem Jamborette in the Netherlands and a further 19 attended Kandersteg International Scout Camp 100. These three camps will be reported in more detail, later in the AGM. In addition to this, there have been many events and activities run by Districts and Groups around the Area. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many dedicated volunteers whose passion and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our members is truly inspiring.

I attended the Northern Europe Scouts District Camp at De Kluis campsite, near Brussels in Belgium where I met 460 BSO members from across the District. During the camp, I was honoured to lead the Penguin Song for the campsire.

Telstar, Waterloo & Prague at Intercamp 26-29 May 2023

Three Northern Europe District Scout Groups had an amazing time at Intercamp in Eifel National Park, in Vogelsang, Germany over the Whitsun weekend break. Intercamp next year is at Świeradow-Zdrój in Poland.

We’ve been very busy:

World Scout Jamboree 27 July to 15 August

36 Explorers from Unit 1 – “The Wild Ones”, under the leadership of Shelly Burrows, Brooke Lowe, Zoe Baxter and Lynn Millard attended the WSJ in South Korea. On top of this, nine members of BSO went as part of the adult International Service Team (IST). As you’ll have seen in the press and on social media, this particular WSJ proved to be an unparalleled test of mettle, a crucible of stress, trauma, and challenges that pushed the boundaries of even the most seasoned participants. Yet, against all odds, Unit 1 returned not only unscathed but enriched by an experience that defied the norm. A standing ovation is due for our remarkable Unit Leaders, steadfast IST and CMST members, and, of course, our exceptional young participants. Their resilience and dedication throughout this journey has left me truly amazed. They turned a disaster into an extraordinary WSJ, unlike any other. A heartfelt thank you for giving your best and embracing the challenge. Remember, it's during tough times that the strongest individuals emerge. Kudos to all!

Area Commissioner

10

Haarlem Jamborette 5-16 August 2023 Kandersteg Centenary 27 July - 8 August

This summer 190 BSO members joined 3,500 international participants at the Haarlem Jamborette in the Netherlands in four BSO camps comprising 1st Bougival, 1st Brussels, 1st Hague/1st Prague and the main BSO contingent. Our members embarked on a whirlwind of exhilarating escapades, including epic 40km hikes, immersive city tours, adrenaline-pumping adventure trails, breezy windmill cycling, shaded forest cycling, poignant visits to the Anne Frank Museum, thrilling water sports, zany sports tournaments, vibrant evening parties, Dutch theme park thrills, engaging sessions in arts, crafts, and technology and making new friends during the open day with a big BSO party.

16 Explorers and 3 adults from Northern Europe participated in the centenary celebrations of the Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC) at Kander100. The group enjoyed a massive range of adventurous and cultural activities, plus some epic parades and celebrations.

Two weeks before this, 13 members of the 1st Waterloo Scouts and Explorers also attended Kandersteg for a week’s camp.

11

Area Commissioner

Closure of British Girlguiding Overseas

In April, Girlguiding UK gave an unexpected announcement about the cessation of all operations under the British Girlguiding Overseas (BGO) umbrella, effective 1st of September 2023. Both BGO and BSO, have a profound and interconnected tapestry of heritage that spans more than a century. Throughout this extensive history, we've enjoyed a close collaborative relationship, driven by a shared mission of nurturing and empowering our youth.

We acknowledge the immeasurable contribution BGO has made to countless girls over the years. The positive ripple effect of BGO's influence on our local communities cannot be understated, and we're indebted to the lasting impact BGO leaves behind. The tapestry of our shared communities has been enriched through our joint engagement, and as we bid farewell, we're acutely aware of the void their absence will create.

Finally, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every individual who has played a role in shaping the landscape of Scouting within the BSO Area and our Districts. From the exceptional leaders who guide and inspire, to the dedicated managers who orchestrate behind the scenes, and the unwavering supporters who lend their strength, I am deeply appreciative. Your contributions, both seen and unseen, have left an indelible mark on the lives of those you've touched. Through our collective dedication we continue to make a positive impact on our youth and the world they will shape.

Nathan Prince Area Commissioner

12

Area Commissioner

2022 2023

800

----- Start of picture text -----
Area
36
Middle East
Southern Europe 656
600 755
400
200
Northern Europe
Rest of the World
1062
842
0
Squirrels Beavers Cubs Scouts Explorers Network
----- End of picture text -----

Youth Membership Up 18.3% to 2468 Adult Membership Up 10.2% to 883 We have 1 leader for every 5 young people across BSO 4% increase in teenagers taking part in BSO Scouting

Long Service Awards in BSO

25 Years Long Service Award Jeff Piper Baz Pritchard

20 Years Long Service Award Peter Cathcart Justin Fisher Nathan Prince

15 Years Long Service Award Lynn Frank Leisel Hardy

10 Years Long Service Award Shelly Burrows Sarah Lightfoot Alice Mintoff Yasma Osman Sandro Pace-Bonello Becca Taylor

Every adult who gives their time to Scouting supports the development of young people and without them Scouting and the adventures it offers simply would not happen.

Top Awards in BSO

Chief Scout's Commendation for Meritorious Conduct Becca Felgate

King's Scout Award Finn Adair

Silver Wolf Jon Gill Simon Burgess

Silver Acorn John Tranter Nathan Prince

Chief Scout’s Commendation for Good Service Sonia Alvarez John Broxis Peter Endean Stuart Green Lucy Hammond Alastair Hammond Ursula Pucovska Chris Wait Robin Ngeow Fatma Zebadia Wayne Hinto Carmen GomezAdarme Clare Murray James Hull Jamie Wright Robert Willis Victoria Mitchell Catherine Fenton Dominique White John Pearce Thomas Thorne

Award for Merit Jane Warne Lynn Frank Alice MIntoff Cynthia Williams Edward Gough Jordan McCullough Karen Kendall Mark Neves Matthew Shephard Nigel Stone Timothy Miller

People

We have seen a lot of change in the Peoples team this year. We have a number of new appointments to the team. Lucy Bridge has been appointed as AAC Development, Lucy has been extremely busy looking at ways BSO can support our friends from British Guiding Overseas (BGO) who were told in April that all groups will be closed at the end of August. Lucy has been looking at ways Districts can support any members of BGO. In September Lucy will be working with Districts to see if we can reduce the waiting lists some group have.

Nilesh Tailor has been appointed as Area Training Manager. Nilesh and his team are looking at ways we can support those leaders who need to complete training but struggle with attending any of the Area’s courses. They are looking at videoing some of these courses so leaders can watch them when they have time and then meet up with a Training Advisor to validate what they have learnt.

Bernie Steadman has joined the Lone Scout Group as Cub Leader. Bernie will be working closely with Alastair Hannaford who is the Group Scout Leader of the Lone Scout Group

One piece of exciting news is that our Lone Scout Group has now started. Our first Beaver Scout attended Northern Europe’s District camp and camped for the weekend. He was awarded his Beaver Bronze Award at the camp and is looking forward to starting Cubs in September.

The Lone Scout Group has been set up to help those who move to an area around the World who cannot access Scouting due to long distances between where they live and the nearest Scout Group can join this group with other members in the same situation. This group will be available to all of our Youth Sections from Squirrels to Scout Network, where we will be offering a balanced programme for our members. We hope that we will get a chance to meet up during one of the many large camps BSO attend.

Rikki Bilverstone (Area Training Manager,) Victoria Mitchell (Young Leader Leader) and Jordan McCullough (AAC Diversity & Inclusion) have all left their roles to focus on different roles.

Rikki is still helping with Training in the Area, but also in his home town. Victoria is still involved in ROW but is also concentrating on Scouting in Cumbria. Jordan is now the DC for Southern Europe. I would like to thank them all for the dedication they have shown to BSO during their time in the roles.

We are still looking for a new Young Leader Leader and AAC Diversity & Inclusion. If you are interested in either of these roles please contact me for a chat.

Debbie Phillips

Deputy Area Commissioner (People)

People

16

Programme

2022/23 has been a busy year with a wide range of activity across the area. During the year, I have continued to focus on:

I have run online sessions to talk about the night away and activities scheme, running online training for Module 16 (Residential Experiences) and helped with training where needed. I continue to promote how we can help more leaders across BSO gain permits. In 2023/24 we run module 25(Nights Away) to qualify more nights away advisors across the area

I was pleased to support the Jamboree Unit with their camp in Prague. This was hold them in excellent stead for the jamboree proper in Korea. By the time this report is published we will be able to hear all about the jamboree from Shelly, Lynn, Zoe and Brooke and am sure they all had a good time.

It was great to 1st Prague gaining climbing and archery permits. Thanks to Dave Sneddon from Lincolnshire Scouts who assessed the climbing permits. The Area can arrange (subject to numbers) assessor visits should you have scouters who either need training to are experienced enough to gain a permit.

BSO was honoured to be invited to lead the British Memorial Service at Bayeux during the Normandy Boy Scouts of America Transatlantic Council Camporee in April 2022. 2022 was the 10th Normandy Camporee and we are recognized by the French Republic with the title “Custodians of Omaha Beach”. The Camporee was open to all Scout Families from around the globe, including those of other Scout Associations, and not just members of the Boy Scouts of America. An excellent memorial was delivered with the help of Yves Gagnon, Paris Explorers, Bob Thorpe (former D.C. Southern Europe) and others.

Network continues to go from strength to strength under the leadership of Becca Felgate. I have been delighted by the range of events and greater activity with our network members. It has been a real pleasure seeing them gain Kings Scout awards, take part in the sad events of HM the Queen’s funeral as well as the happier King’s coronation.

Programme

17

Programme

We have also purchased additional equipment to support events during the year which I know will be very useful for both Haarlem Jamborette and Gilwell Reunion.

Finally, I would like to thank everyone who has helped support BSO groups on programme in the year. This includes member of the programme team as well as countless leaders who have contributed during the year. I am also keen to hear form people who would like to join me in helping on the team in BSO. If you are interested in helping or have a question on permits or activities, please get in touch using my email which is howard.nelson@britishccoutingoverseas. org.uk. I would be happy to hear from you.

Howard Nelson Deputy Commissioner (Programme)

Programme

18

Perception

The last year has been a year of consolidation and incremental improves within our perception strand. Building on the previous successes of our Microsoft 365 rollout and new website, we've focussed this year on our Social media channels.

As part of the Area mini conference at Gilwell Reunion 2022, we've engaged in having a youth led socials team and were delighted to welcome Rachel & Edward to form our Social Media team.

Internally our Far & Wide newsletter continues to be an important source of communicating with members and over the next yea we'll be focussed on how we can improve this valuable communications tool for our members.

We've further integrated our social media channels onto the BSO website with our Instagram feed promoted on the home page, further showcasing the vibrancy of scouting across BSO.

Continuing externally, we've continued to take on feedback from members and visitors of our website to continue to update and improve usability, further enhancing the importance of our website as a tool to aid members.

My thanks to all those who continue to support Perception (Comms) with particular thanks to the team; Richard, Will, Sarah, Jordan, Rachel, Edward, Michael, Matt, and Tony

Graham Eden Deputy Area Commissioner (Perception)

A key upcoming project is to share our heritage of UK scouting overseas online, which is in tandem with our Area Heritage Manager Tony, with both interest and usability being key requirements.

Perception

19

Every week, we give more than 2,400 young people aged 6-25, the skills they need for life.

info@britishscoutingoverseas.org.uk Registered charity number: 1151702

BSO - 2022/23 Audited Accounts

Annual Accounts For year

1[st] April 2022

to

31[st] March 2023

AUDITED ACCOUNTS

August 2023

British Scouting Overseas

Ben Balaam – BSO Area Treasurer

9 Pipit Place, Upper Horsebridge, Hellingly, East Sussex, BN27 1FT. United Kingdom

T: +44 (0)1323 842 580 M: +44 (0)7917 091 868 E: ben.balaan@britishscoutingoverseas.org.uk

W: www.britishscoutingoverseas.org.uk Registered charity number 1151702

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BSO - 2022/23 Audited Accounts

PREFACE COMMENTS

1. BSO ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT

1.1. The BSO Accounts

1.2. Area Treasurer

Appointed to the role of British Scouting Overseas on 5[th] September 2014.

1.3. Transactions

2. BSO ACCOUNT FUNDS LOCATION

3. FUND HOLDING CATEGORIES

3.1. Unrestricted Funds

3.2. Reserved Funds for TSA Membership Fees

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BSO - 2022/23 Audited Accounts

3.3. Designated Funds

3.4. Designated / Restricted Event Funds

3.5. Restricted Funds Held on behalf of others

3.6. Endowment Funds

4.0 ALLOCATIONS AND DESIGNATIONS OF 2021-22 BSO ACCOUNTS

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BSO - 2022/23 Audited Accounts

4.1 2022/23 ACCOUNTS

(all of the account figures are in GBP)

BSO Account opening balance (Note 5.1) £ 84,038.66 Total income 2022/23 £ 287,347.37 Total funds 2022/23 £ 371,386.03 Total expenditure 2022/23 (Note 5.2) £ -225,220.56 2022/23 BSO Account’s closing balance (Note 5.3) £ 146,165.47

4.2 DESIGNATED FUNDS HELD WITHIN ABOVE ACCOUNTS

BSO SUPPORT FUNDS (Note 5.4)

Opening balance Hardship Funds Young People £ 1,000.00 Adults £ 1,000.00 WSJ Attendee £ 290.00 Jamboree – Start-up Loan Fund £ 1,500.00 Jamboree Leader Support Fund £ 3,000.00 Group Development – Start-up Grant £ 1,000.00 £ - 300.00 Emergency Fund £ 5,000.00 Opening Fund Holding £ 12,790.00 Total expenditure from Funds 2022/23 (Start-up Grants made) £ -300.00 2022/23 closing balance for held Support Funds

£ 12,490.00

4.3

RESERVED TRANSFER FUNDS

Transferred through to The Scout Association and not retained or covered by BSO.

TSA Capitation collected and transferred

TSA 2022 Membership Fees (Note 5.5) £ 79,700.00 £ -79,700.00 £ Zero

TSA 2023 Membership Fees received (Note 5.5.2) Before end of 2022/23 year to for carry over to 2023/24 accounts: -

£ 57,084.77

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BSO - 2022/23 Audited Accounts

4.4 EVENT FUNDS CURRENT STATUS

World Scout Jamboree 2019 (Note 5.6) 2021-22 Balance = £ 4,327.74 Transferred to Event Surplus/Deficit sub-account £ -2000.00 Current Balance at close 2022-23 = £ 2,327.74

Balance uplifted from 2021-22 to cover Unclaimed & production WSJ-19 Photo Book cost

WINGS 2020 (Note 5.7)

Sub-Account balance from 2021-2022 £ 4,768.35 Refunds claimed 2022-23 £ -555.00 Remaining balance to be transferred to Event Surplus/Deficit sub-account = £ 4,213.35

Supplementary Event Note: [Wings was cancelled due to Covid]

--------------------------------------------

Kent International Jamboree 2022 (Note 5.8)

Balance from 2021-22 £ 6,798.48 Income 2022-23 £ 4,380.00 Total Income = £11,178.48 Expenditure 2021-22 £ -10,120.48 Remaining balance to be transferred to Event Surplus/Deficit sub-account = £ 1,058.00

World Scout Jamboree 2023 (Note 5.9)

Total Income 2021-23 £ 146,594.61 Total Expenditure 2021-23

Balance into 2023-24 =

£ -132,719.13 £13,875.48

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Hillwalking 2022(Note 5.10)
Total Income 2021-23
£ 300.00
Expenditure 2022-23
Balance (Loss) =
----------------------------------------
Haarlem Jamborette 2023
Total Income 2022-23
£ 35,503.03
Total Expenditure 2021-23
Balance into 2023-24 =		 £ -311.30
£ -11.30
£ -26,093.16
£ 9,409.87
4.5
BSO EVENTS SURPLUS/DEFICIT FUNDS
Events Funds opening balance
£ 2,522.35
Additions/Deletions
£ 2,000.00
Income total 2022-23 =
£ 4,522.35
Expenditures 2021-23
Events sub-account closing balance 2022-23 =		 (Note 5.11)
£-1,757.16
£ 2,765.19
4.6
FUNDS HELD IN BSO 2022-23 ACCOUNT FOR OTHERS
(Note 5.12)
St Helena Scout Group
Donations:
for their next WSJ attendee
£ 400.00
Refund added from WSJ-19
£ 100.00
£ 500.00
Ascension Scout Group
For Equipment purchase only
£ 1,518.58
Equipment purchased 2022-23
£ ZERO
Balance held =
£ 1,518.58

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Donations: for Ascension’s next WSJ attendee £ 400.00 Refund added from WSJ-19 £ 100.00 £ 500.00 Total Ascension funds held = £ 2,018.58 ------------------------------------------- 1st Salmiya, Kuwait £ 40.00 1[st] Selangor £ 200.00 £ -126.83 2[nd] Selangor £ 300.00 £ -126.82 1[st] Prague Squirrels £ 100.00 Northern Europe District £ 427.00 £1,067.00 £ -253.65 2022-23 Balance = £ 813.35 ------------------------------------------- RoW DDC-L,M&D – “Rest of the World” District (Ben Balaam) Business donation for BB use in Scouting Role £ 1,000.00 Transferred into RoW Account £ -1,000.00 Balance = £ Zero -------------------------------------------2022-23 Funds Held Total for others = £ 3,331.93

5.0 Notes to accompany 2022-23 Financial Report

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The WSJ-19 sub-account shall thereafter be closed at the end of September 2023 with Photobook claim completed.

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The following does not form part of the statutory accounts, only budgetary comparisons and 2022/23 funding targets…

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6.1 2022-23 Budget Sheet

(Note 5.13)

BRITISH SCOUTING OVERSEAS

Budget Year End 31st March 2023 Pending Audit
BRITISHSCOUTINGOVERSEAS
Budget Year End
31st March 2023
Pending Audit
BUDGET
REFERENCE		 TOPIC
HEADER
BUDGET
FIGURE		 ADJUSTMENT
ONINCOME or
EXPENDITURE		 EXPENDITURE BALANCE
AE-01 **District Chair Meetings ** £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
AS-01 Administration Duties £150.00 -£49.50 £100.50
AT-01 Bank charges £150.00 £0.00 £150.00
AT-02 Start-Up Grants £1,000.00 -£300.00 £700.00
AT-03 Area Equipment Insurance £1,000.00 -£962.76 £37.24
AT-04 WSJ £1,000.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
BM-01 Purchases & Free Issues £350.00 £651.00 -£617.30 £383.70
AC-01 ME Support £300.00 £0.00 £300.00
AC-02 NE & SE Support £300.00 £0.00 £300.00
AC-03 Area Team Development £1,500.00 £0.00 £1,500.00
AC-04 Awards Celebration £100.00 £0.00 £100.00
AC-05 Interface Meeting with BGO £150.00 £0.00 £150.00
AC-06 Travel incidentals £200.00 -£807.20 -£607.20
AC-07 Development of Community Impact £200.00 -£21.98 £178.02
AC-08 UK Conferences £920.74 £218.00 -£2,150.46 -£1,011.72
INT-01 Notional sum to facilitate dialogue
and information exchange with BSO
Host Country NSOs. Potential travel
and resource/ registration fees.		 £1,000.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
GD-01 Direct Local Support £1,200.00 £0.00 £1,200.00
SG-01 Safeguarding £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
AAC-01 Appointments Committee Expenses £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
AP-01 Awards Panel Expenses £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
YC-01 Youth Shaped £500.00 £0.00 £500.00
SQ-01 Squirrels Development £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
NW-01 Costs (venue hire) for first meeting
UK BSO Network section and
materials for day		 £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
TA-01 DofE IA Leader Training £300.00 £0.00 £300.00
TA-02 Awards £100.00 £0.00 £100.00
TA-03 International Award Expedition prep
expenses		 £100.00 £0.00 £100.00
ACT-01 Travel for Permits weekend and visit
to SE nights away permit
assessment.		 £600.00 £0.00 £600.00

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EV-01 Gilwell Reunion £500.00 -£356.95 £143.05
EV-02 Equipment maintenance
/replacement		 £1,500.00 -£139.00 £1,361.00
EV-03 Area conference £1,500.00 £0.00 £1,500.00
EV-04 Travel £400.00 £0.00 £400.00
DI-01 Travel £400.00 -£113.20 £286.80
DI-02 Team strategy weekend £500.00 £0.00 £500.00
TRG-01 visit to ME district camp, training
provision		 £1,000.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
TRG-02 visit to SE/NE district camp, training
provision.		 £1,000.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
TRG-03 Possible financial support for ROW
District visits		 £1,000.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
TRG-04 Online delivery tools i.e. Ahaslides £50.00 -£41.78 £8.22
TRG-05 Expenses for KIJ training provisions £100.00 £0.00 £100.00
YL-01 Young Leaders £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
PER-01 Travel £400.00 £0.00 £400.00
PER-02 Team strategy weekend £400.00 £0.00 £400.00
PER-03 Social Media Advertising
(Vacancies & News)		 £200.00 £0.00 £200.00
ENG-01 Canva Pro Software £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
ENG-02 Heritage £225.00 £0.00 £225.00
ENG-03 Mailchimp for Far & Wide £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
TS-01 Website and Booking Calendar £225.00 £0.00 £225.00
TS-02 Web Domains and SSL Certificate £25.00 £0.00 £25.00
TS-03 BSO Helpdesk £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
TS-04 Office 365 for BSO £0.00 £0.00 £0.00
£20,545.74 £869.00 -£5,560.13 £15,854.61
Events Balance Holding £4,522.35 -£1,757.16 £2,765.19
Hardship Fund YPs £1,000.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
Hardship Fund Ldrs £1,000.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
Exec WSJ Start-up Loan Fund £1,500.00 £0.00 £1,500.00
Chair BSO Contribution for
BSO WSJ Leaders		 £1,500.00 £0.00 £1,500.00
WSJ Leader Travel Support Fund £1,500.00 £0.00 £1,500.00
Emergency Reserved Fund £5,000.00 £0.00 £5,000.00
Area
Treasurer		 Pre-audit & new process review £3,400.00 £0.00 £3,400.00
£14,900.00 £4,522.35 -£1,757.16 £17,665.19

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6.2 2023/24 DRAFT BUDGET

(Note 5.14)

BRITISH SCOUTING OVERSEAS

2023-24 Executive Committee / Trustee Board Draft Budget Pending Audit
BRITISHSCOUTING
OVERSEAS
2023-24
Executive Committee /
Trustee Board Draft Budget
Pending Audit

BUDGET
REFERENCE		 TOPIC
HEADER
BUDGET FIGURE
ENCOMPASSES		 BUDGET FIGURE INCOME EXPENDITURE BALANCE
RESERVED & DESIGNATED INDIVIDUAL FUNDS HELD
SUG Start-up Grants Held and issued to support
New Groups & Sections		 £1,000.00 £0.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
HF-YP Hardship Fund
Young Persons		 Held if YP hardship claim £1,000.00 £0.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
HF-L Hardship Fund
Leaders		 Held if Leader hardship claim £1,000.00 £0.00 £0.00 £1,000.00
HF-WSJ Hardship Fund
WSJ		 Donations here fore & thus
restricted for said use only		 N/A £290.00 £0.00 £290.00
Start-up loan fund held, if
WSJ-L WSJ Start-up
Loan Fund
used replaced by the WSJ		 £1,500.00 £0.00 £0.00 £1,500.00
borrowing
BSO Contribution Target sum agreed by Exec
some years back from
budgeted figure below of
£1k/year saved.
BSO support to appointed
WSJ-LS for
Leaders with 10% of the WSJ		 £1,500.00 £0.00 £0.00 £1,500.00
BSO WSJ Leaders cost
(Cost unknown until
announced thus only
anticipated to sufficiently
cover!)
WSJ Leader
Fund to support any internal
BSO WSJ travel needs for
meeting Contingent before
WSJ-LT Travel Support WSJ; separate to WSJ travel £1,500.00 £0.00 £0.00 £1,500.00
Fund costs for attending WSJ
Leader meetings & WSJ itself
these beingwithin its budget
Designated and held to cover
ERF Emergency
Reserved Fund
any BSO agreed emergency		 £5,000.00 £0.00 £0.00 £5,000.00
requiring immediate finance
BSO-C BSO
Area Conference
Funds set aside each year
between conferences		 £1,500.00 £0.00 £0.00 £1,500.00
EBH Events Balance
Holding
Surplus or Deficit from end of
Events being unrestricted		 N/A £4,342.93 £0.00 £4,342.93
Pre-audit &
Flex new process 10% Contingency of Budget +
Desinated Funds		 £3,417.72 £0.00 £0.00 £3,417.72
review g
Total Reserved or Restricted = £17,417.72 £4,632.93 £0.00 £22,050.65
ADMINISTRATION
AD Stationery Stationery, Postage, etc.
Bank Charges Bank Charges £150.00 £0.00 £0.00 £150.00

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BSO <> NSOs Information exchange with
BSO Host Country NSOs.
BSO MAINTENANCE
MA Equipment Maintenance & Purchase £3,040.46 £0.00 -£2,393.83 £646.63
BSO Profile
Promotion		 BSO image & recruitment
needs
Comms Team Web site maintenance & IT
needs
BSO MERCHENISE
ME Clothing &
Badges		 Clothing review, purchases &
Start-up free issue badges		 £1,195.00 £0.00 £0.00 £1,195.00
Neckers Neckers for Lone Group &
Network
TRAVEL & GENERAL EXPENSES
T&G Travel All individual travel costs
collated
General
Expenses		 All individual general
undesignated expenses
 £7,625.00 £0.00 £0.00 £7,625.00
collated
ADULT LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
ALD DoE Leader
Training		 Training costs for DoE
International course
Training Tools Training materials £560.00 £0.00 £0.00 £560.00
BSO EVENTS
Attendance costs for Reunion
Gilwell Reunion i.e. van hire for equipment
EV taking
BSO Promotion Promotions etc. of BSO at
Reunion		 £7,531.71 £0.00 -£68.29 £7,463.42
Other BSO
Events		 Expenses for event
attendance non-travel
BSO SECTIONS
Section Support Equipment & tools related to
Sections		 £225.00 £0.00 £0.00 £225.00
SN
Total unreserved or unrestricted = £20,177.17 £0.00 -£2,462.12 £17,865.05
TOPIC HEADER BSO RESTRICTED
INCOME FUNDS
HELD		 ADJUSTMENT
ONINCOME
or
EXPENDITURE		 EXPENDITURE BALANCE
HELD FUNDS FOR OTHER PARTIES
Balance of donation made to
ASC Ascension Held
Funds		 1st Ascension for sole purpose N/A £1,300.63 £0.00 £1,300.63
topurchase equipment
A-WSJ Ascension Held
WSJ Donation		 Donation for next WSJ
attendee from 1st Ascension		 N/A £500.00 £0.00 £500.00

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Donation for next WSJ
SH-WSJ St Helena Held
WSJ Donation		 attendee from 1st Jamestown N/A £500.00 £0.00 £500.00
St Helena
1st Salmiya,
SKF
Kuwait Held		 Winnings from TSA
cometition		 N/A £40.00 £0.00 £40.00
Funds p

Start-up Grant for new Group
2SF 2nd Selangor
Held Funds

held in BSO Account for them		 N/A £173.18 £0.00 £173.18
atpresent

Start-up Grant for new Group
1SF 1st Selangor
Held Funds

held in BSO Account for them		 N/A £73.17 £0.00 £73.17
atpresent
2 KLS 2nd Kuala
Lumpur Squirrels		 Start-up Grant for new Group
held in BSO Account for them
atpresent		 N/A £100.00 £0.00 £100.00

Start-up Grant for new Group
1 PS 1st Prague
Suirrels

held in BSO Account for them		 N/A £100.00 £0.00 £100.00
q atpresent
Northern Europe
NED
funds held in		 Advanced holdings for N.
Euroe District to call on		 N/A £1,143.30 -£152.55 £990.75
BSO p
Total of Restricted Accounts held for other Parties =
£3,930.28		 -£152.55 £3,777.73
FUNDS HELD FOR ACTIVE OR FROM CONCLUDING EVENTS
WSJ19 WSJ-19 CONCLUDING 2022-23
EVENT BALANCE		 £2,327.74 £0.00 £2,327.74
WG20 WINGS 2020 CONCLUDING 2022-23
EVENT BALANCE		 £4,213.35 -£4,522.31 -£308.96
KIJ Kent
International
Jamboree 2022		 CONCLUDING 2-22-23
EVENT BALANCE		 £1,058.00 £0.00 £1,058.00
WSJ23 WSJ-23 LIVE EVENT 2022-23 BALANCE £13875.48 £0.00 £22,731.98
HJ-23 Haarlem
Jamborette 2023		 LIVE EVENT 2022-23 BALANCE £9,409.87 £0.00 £9,409.87
Total of Restricted Accounts held for Events = £45,119.79 -£9,528.90 £35,590.89

The 2022/23 Annual Accounts, together with this Financial Report, are prepared and collated for presentation to the Independent Examiner:

Ben Balaam

--------------------------------------------- signature

Ben Balaam CEng. MSc BSc DMS CGLI MIET MCMI FIDiagE

For and on behalf of British Scouting Overseas

------------------ < > ------------------

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AREA TREASURER’S ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

My sincere congratulations to all across British Scouting Overseas on the way we have mutually progressed with active participation in and at events being held both within Districts as well as within and outside UK, with motivating Leadership throughout; we are and shall be all mutually….

“BSO - SCOUTING PROUD”

As said before, my Treasury workload; not seen or you’ve even considered as the most exciting aspect of Scouting; has still experienced a considerable financial movement over the past year with and from the events participation of BSO Members as well as those of future attendees at likes of the World Scout Jamboree 2023 in South Korea and Haarlem Jamborette 2023 in Nederlands

Our Scouting objectives and goals I believe across British Scouting Overseas and within our Districts still remain as firm as ever, if not becoming increasingly stronger as time progresses! The challenges of the past couple of years now behind us from whish BSO has built therefrom!

The Executive Committee and now called The Trustee Board has trialled a broad Budget listing and next year from this has been collated into smaller collective portions.

I do not usually mention names, in case forget to say someone thus, I thank all whom have given their support to me being fully deserving of my thanks and appreciation. In particular, to the Exec Team, Event Managers and of course our District Treasurers in their related role functions, encompassing their annual task of collection and transfer of Membership Fees and in their undertaking of local District Accounting!

My best wishes and thanks to you all for this year as well as our future years of BSO Scouting together!

Ben Balaam

British Scouting Overseas: Area Treasurer

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BSO - 2022/23 Audited Accounts Scouts Independent Ewlnefs Report to the Tn￿tee$ of the BRITISH scoLmNG OVERSEAS AREA scoirr COUNCIL I repyl on the a¢x(xmts d the Area for the yew ended on 3191 March 2tr23, ￿lch cornprise the Statemwrt ol F¥wcial Adiwljes, the Balance Sheel and rela￿ notes set out pages 2 to 9 of the BSO Acc¢Jmts Repo(t This rewrt is made solely lo the trustees in accordarKe Vitth Secti(Jn 145 of Ctroritse5 Act 2011. My work has been undertaken so that I migtrt stste to the charivs truSta6s those matters l am required to te to them in an IrKI￿nd￿t Examrs rewt arKI for rK> other FArpose. To ftllest extert RwKffjve responslbllltles of Tntstees and Examlner audit is not requI￿d fot ttrms year (under secti￿ 144 of ts Charities Act 2011 (ts Charities Ad)) tt is my resp(mibility to: Examine (Lnjer sedK￿ 145 of the Chwities Ad): To fo)w tre rAocedures lad in the General Directions gven by the Charity C￿￿￿SSIOnerS {WKler Seclion 1445)(b) of the Charibes Pd); and Bas15 of ￿￿eP￿rKl8nt Examénets report My examinati1￿ was carried in accordan￿ the Gwal Directions by the Charity Commissi(Nws. An examinati￿ incknes a re¥￿ of the ￿untIrvj records kept ty the GrwTXsth"ct sual items ￿ disdosures account5, arKI seeking expknations fr￿n ycw as tr￿tee5 corwnirYJ any such matters. The procethjres wMJert8k￿ (k) not provide all the eviderK2 that wDuld be required in audit. and consequenlty no opinion is given as to whether the accoLxts wesrt a 'true and fairf view Ihe report is limrted to lIN￿e matters set ¢Xrt in the statement below. Ind8p8ndent EXa￿￿￿e¢S statefnent In CQMection ￿ my exarTThli(xi. M mer has C£￿ to my attention {￿her tt)an that disdosed below J: to vthich. in my opinion, nticm sh(XAkl be tran in cAder to ￿aLle a proper underSt￿ftg of the Mr Jeremy Fozzard - FCCA Qualifi￿1￿. Fellthv Member of Association of Chartered Certsr￿d Accountants 8818￿2022.13 A<¢ounts12S.08.2023 Pagelofl