2025-03-31-accounts - Chichester District Scout Council

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Chichester District Trustee Board Annual Report 2024 - 2025

Agenda

Meeting: Chichester District Annual General Meeting Date: 16[th] September 2025 Venue: St Blaise Centre, Boxgrove Start Time: 7pm Refreshments 7.30pm Formal Meeting

1. Introduction and welcome

2. Apologies for absence

3. Governance topics

a. Approve the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 24th September 2024
b. Adopt the model constitution from Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR)
c. Note the District’s financial year
d. Approve appointed and community members of the District Scout Council
e. Agree the number of members that may be appointed to the Trustee Board
f. Agree the quorum for future meetings of the District Scout Council (excluding this AGM)

4. Review of the previous year

a. The District Lead Volunteer’s review of Scouts in the Chichester District
b. Receive and consider the Annual Report of the District Trustee Board, including the annual Statement of the Accounts

5. Making appointments

a. Appoint the District Chair, following recommendation from the open selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board
b. Appoint the District Treasurer, following recommendation from the open selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board
c. Appoint members of the District Trustee Board, following recommendations from the open selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board
d. Re-appoint District President and Vice Presidents
e. Appoint the Independent Examiner / Auditor
f. Nominate representatives of the District Scout Council to represent the District on the County Scout Council

6. Closing remarks

Chichester District AGM Minutes

Date: 24[th] September 2024

Venue: St Blaises Centre

Attendees:

22 uniformed/13 non-uniformed Mayor of Chichester - Councillor Sarah Quail Chichester Disttrict Council Chair - Councillor Clare Apel District President Mrs Joan Langmead

Minutes

1. Introduction and Welcome

Peter welcomed everyone to the meeting, welcoming Joan Langmead our President, Clare Apel CDC Chair, and Sarah Quail Mayor in particular. Peter also thanked Tom and Mia, two explorers, for helping with the tea/coffee and food before the meeting.

2. Apologies

Apologies were given from:

Peter Couzins, Ray Nye, Geoff Strickland, Colin Bailey, Andy Burrows, Anita Hockin, Rachel Hammond, Andrew Coombes, Kat Tomlinson, Ellie Bloom, Dave Wingham, Yasmin Sanger-Bryant, David Warren and Sue Smith

Peter wished Rachel Hammond well as she has had a fall recently so was unable to be with us this evening, but eluded to the fact Rachel would form part of a later part of the meeting.

3. Governance Topics

a. Approve Minutes of last AGM on 12[th] September 2023

The minutes of the last AGM held on 12[th] September 2023 at The St Blaise Centre, Boxgrove were offered for approval to the meeting.

Issues raised: None Matters arising: None

Peter Evans proposed the minutes be accepted, Josh Brown seconded the proposal. The meeting voted to approve the minutes of last years meeting unanimously via a show of hands.

b. Adopt model constitution from POR

Peter highlighted that the constitution is available on the Scout website. It was agreed that this would be adopted in principle via an indication of hands, and Peter suggested that members of the meeting who were not familiar with it should refer to the website.

Peter Evans proposed the adoption of the model constitution, Richard Williams seconded the adoption and the meeting voted to approve the motion.

c. Note the Districts Financial Year

Emma confirmed the District’s financial year is currently 1[st] April – 31[st] March, so for the purposes of the AGM the financial year being covered is 1[st] April 2023 to 31[st] March 2024. All the reports and discussion at the meeting are for the year ending 31[st] March 2024.

d. Approve appointed and community members of the District Scout Council

There are no community members noted. Appointed trustees were elected as part of Section 6 of this meeting.

e. Agree Numbers of Members for Trustee Board

Peter Evans propsed that we have a total of 12 members of the trustee board as per the number suggested within POR. This includes Ex-Officio and Co-Opted trustees. Claire Jones seconded the proposal. The meeting agreed to 12 trustees, no challenge or queries were raised.

f. Agree Quorum for future meetings of District Scout Council (excluding this AGM)

Peter Evans proposed a minimum of 15 members of the Scout Council for future meetings, excluding this AGM. Philip Prior seconded the proposal. The quorum was agreed by the meeting.

The meeting also voted to allow board members to vote or give consent via email or online meetings where required, or where face to face meetings are not possible or practicable. It was agreed that face to face meetings should be held where ever possible. The motions were proposed by Peter Evans, seconded by Claire Jones and the meeting agreed.

5. Review of previous year

a. DLV’s Review of Scouting in the District

Philip asked everyone to peruse the reports that are part of the written report produced for the meeting. These provide more detail of the activites that have happened in the district during the year in question.

Having taken the role of Lead Volunteer in the District after our year end, I find myself in a position to look back at the highlights of the year across the District and look forward to the coming year.

2023-2024 saw all the Sections across the District taking part in a wide variety of events and activities including camps, hikes, badge days, campfires, box car racing and international events.

This year has also seen us welcome Tangmere Scout Group into the District fully with Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts all fully active and engaging in activities in the District. The Growth team in the District led by Liz Mace worked incredibly hard to create the basic framework of the Group following a recruitment event in Tangmere earlier in 2023.

The Growth Team continues to be very active across the District supporting Groups to fill vacant roles in all sections and at Trustee level, the notable highlight of this is that our very own current Board of Trustee Chairman Peter Evans attended an event, read a vacancy card for the role of Chairman and contacted us to discuss in more detail before he accepted the role a year ago. I thank Liz and Andy for all their hard work over the last 12 months in what was a very challenging year for them personally.

This year has seen recorded Growth for the District on our census numbers so my thanks go to all Groups who achieved growt, although the biggest gain was obviously from the creation of the group in Tangmere.

As we head into 2024 the main focus will be to ensure that the District is fully compliant with all governance and compliance requirements with a key focus on safety. With this in mind the Board of Trustees have started forming a team of people to oversee and assist with risk assessments and safety compliance in the District. The other key features are to ensure all adult members membership records are up to date and that they are in the correct roles with the correct training in place before we head into the new membership system that is imminent.

I’d like to thank everyone in the District who have been so supportive and cooperative since taking on the role Lead Volunteer. Having held the role 10 years ago, I never really saw me filling the role again. I look forward to supporting everyone as we move forward to encourage active safe Scouting across the District with additional growth in all Groups where possible with the creation of Squirrel Dreys and more Explorer Units for the 14-18 section.

Philip Prior – District Lead Volunteer

Peter gave his thanks to Philip, as he had never realised how much the DLV does, especially as Philip also supports Bognor. Peter also highlighted that Graham Heard, Chair from Bognor was also present at the meeting.

b. Receive and Consider Annual Report of Trustees and Statement of Accounts

The Trustees Annual Report was presented to the meeting in the form of a hard copy report.

Issues raised: The printed report handed out at the meeting had one error – Josh Brown was appointed in July 2023 not 2024. The electronic copy of the report has been updated to reflect this.

No further questions were raised regarding the trustee reports.

Statement of Accounts

Emma went through the highlights of the accounts for the year as listed in her accounts accompanying the written report. Emma also went through her report found later in this book.

The meeting accepted the accounts produced by the trustees. Although invited by Emma, there were no questions.

6. Making Appointments

a. Appoint District Chair

Philip then proposed that Peter Evans be voted as Chair of the Trustees. The meeting approved Peter as a trustee and as Chair of the Trustee Board.

Peter accepted, pointing out that he came from outside Scouting, but felt it’s well run and the enthusiasm is fantastic.

b. Election of District Treasurer

Peter suggested that Emma Prince continue as Treasurer and the meeting elected Emma Prince to continue in role.

c. Appoint members of the District Trustee Board

The meeting approved Claire’s suggested list of trustees via a show of hands. Trustee’s were appointed as follows:

Ex-Officio: Philip Prior DLV, Josh Brown DYL

Apointed: Peter Evans – Chair, Emma Prince – Treasurer, Claire Jones – Secretary, Martin Bell – Trustee, Andy Mace – Cubs LV, Richard Williams – 14-24 LV

Co-Opted: Liz Mace – Growth LV, Caroline Cooper – Appointments, Kate Crockford – DSAS, Nick Halton – Beavers LV

In addition, as non-trustees the Trusteee Board will be supported by Tony Tunnell – GLV 12[th] , Joe Hellyer – District IT.

Peter also advised the AGM that it is the intention of the Board to relook at its membership during the coming year and with Philip potentially to move some members to an operational team meeting.

d. Re-appoint District President and Vice President

Peter asked Joan Langmead if she would stand for another year, our long standing president, Joan kindly agreed to restand. The meeting voted to appoint Joan for a further year.. The Board also recommended the appointment of Rachel Hammond as our Vice President, as previously our County Chair her input would be very welcome. The meeting approved Rachel’s appointment. Sadly due to ill health Rachel could not be present at the meeting, but had indicated via email prior to the meeting that she was happy to take the role if appointed.

e. Appoint the Independent Examiner/Auditor

Heather Cheeseman was approved as our independent examiner for a further year. The meeting approved via a show of hands.

f. Nominate representatives of the District Scout Council to represent the District at the County Scout Council

The meeting agreed that Peter Evans, Emma Prince, Claire Jonesand Philp Prior could represent the district at County level. The meeting approved the suggested representatives to join the County Scout Council.

6. Closing Remarks

Peter thanked Claire for all her work putting everything together for the AGM. Peter also thanked Emma for her work on the accounts. Peter asked for anyone who know of anyone who is willing to volunteer to come forward as we would like to expand our opportunites within the district.

Peter thanked all the leaders for the hard work and time they put in. While the events are just a small part of what leaders do, and also with transformation to manage it involves a lot of work. Peter highlighted the appointment of a new Chief Scout – Dwayne Fields. The future for Scouting in Chichester is strong, with great support from the District and wider Councils in the area. Peter thanked the Mayor and Chichester District Council for their ongoing support.

Peter closed the formal meeting.

Trustees’ Report

Reference and Administration Details

The Trustees of the Chichester District Scout Council (Unit10001246 of The Scout Association and registered charity number 267346) present their Annual Report and the independently examined Accounts for the year ended 31st March 2025. During this period the Trustees were as follows:

Trustees: ex-officio


Trustees: ex-ofcio		Appointed
Philip Prior	District Lead Volunteer (previously DSAS)	2ndApril 2024	(7thFebruary 2016)
Josh Brown	District Youth Lead Volunteer	17thJuly 2023
Trustees: Nominated
None
Trustees: Elected
Peter Evans	District Chairman	12th September 2023
Emma Prince	District Treasurer	1st November 2018
Rich Williams	Lead Volunteer 14-24 Programme	5th December 2017
Claire Jones	Trustee - Admin	1st October 2017
Martn Bell	Trustee	9th July 2015
Andrew Mace	Programme Team Lead	7th February 2016
Co-Opted Members:
Liz Mace	Lead Volunteer – Vol and Dev	1st April 2022
Nick Halton	Beavers LV
Caroline Cooper	Welcome Team Lead Volunteer	24thSeptember 2024
Kate Crockford	Trustee/DSAS/Support Team	24thSeptember 2024
Joe Hellyer	District IT	12th September 2023 (Not as a trustee)
Tony Tunnell	GSL/Scouts	February 2019 (Not as a trustee)
Charity Commission registraton: 267346
Scout Associaton registraton: 10001246
Bankers:	Natwest
Correspondence Address:	c/o Emma Prince
	101 Westgate
	Chichester
	PO19 3HB

Structure, Governance and Management

The District’s governing documents are those of The Scout Association. They consist of a Royal Charter, which in turn gives authority to the Bye Laws of the Association and The Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association. The Scout Association is the representative body of the World Organisation of Scout Movements in the United Kingdom. The District is a trust established under rules common to all Scouts.

The Trustees of the charity are either elected by the members of Chichester District Scout Council or nominated by the District and or County Lead Volunteers. Elections and nominations occur at the Annual General Meeting of the Charity, which is held within six months of the District end of year. Individuals may be co-opted as Trustees by the District Trustee Board at any time. The District Lead Volunteer is appointed by the County Lead Volunteer and usually serve for a fixed term of five years renewable by mutual agreement for a further five years. The other trustees do not serve a fixed term appointment but are re-elected or renominated each year. As charity trustees, they are collectively responsible for complying with legislation applicable to charities.

The Scout Association Trust Corporation, a separate legal entity, acts as Custodial Trustee for property held for the benefit of Chichester District Scout Council.

The Trustees met on at least four occasions during the year to consider and approve matters relating to the administration and financial management of Chichester District Scout Council. The Annual General Meeting of the District Scout Council was held on 24th September 2024. The Minutes of that meeting form part of this document.

Within the District Accounts, the Trustees incorporate the financial activities of a number of organisations either reporting solely to the Trustees or jointly to the Trustees and the Trustees of Chichester District Scout Council. The District 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.

Public Benefit Reporting

The Trustees have had due regard to the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit whilst setting the objectives and activities of the charity.

Objectives and activities

Scouts is the UK’s biggest mixed youth organisation. It changes lives by offering 6 – 25 year olds fun and challenging activities, unique experiences, everyday adventure and the chance to help others so that we make a positive impact in communities.

Scouts helps children and young adults reach their full potential. Scouts develop skills including teamwork, time management, leadership, initiative, planning, communication, self-motivation, cultural awareness and commitment. We help young people to get jobs, save lives and even change the world. Scouts take part in actives as diverse as kayaking, abseiling, expeditions overseas, photography, climbing and zorbing. As a Scout you can learn survival skills, first aid, computer programming, or even how to fly a plane. There is something for every young person. It is a great way to have fun, make friends, get outdoors, express your creativity and experience the wider world.

This everyday adventure is possible thanks to our adult volunteers, who support Scouts in a wide range of roles from working directly with young people, helping manage a Group or to being a charity Trustee. We help volunteers get the most out of their experiences at Scouts by providing opportunities for adventure, training, fun and friendship.

Achievements and performance

This year saw a full year guided by Philip Prior, District Lead Volunteer, who was appointed at the latter end of the previous year. We have also seen the introduction of a new Scout online system for volunteers and the introduction of new training modules. As a District the new training was completed to deadline by all but one volunteer. This year also saw the submission of the planning application for the new Scout Centre/Campsite at West Dean, although a decision is still awaited. The District continued to provide a wide range of activities for all ages within the District, details of which can be seen in the District Lead Volunteer and other reports. A new District Safety Advisor was also appointed, who has been providing advice and support to the trustees and assistance in areas such as risk assessments.

Financial Review

The accounting statements are shown in a separate document presented with this report.

Investment Policy

The Districts income and expenditure are relatively small and as a consequence the District does not have sufficient funds to invest in longer term investments such as stocks and shares. The Trustees have therefore adopted a low risk strategy to the investment of its funds. All funds are held in cash using only mainstream banks. Interest rates on these accounts are currently low and returns are small. Total District assets are below £85,000 so should be protected by FSA rulings in the event of a national financial crisis.

Reserves Policy

The Trustees policy on reserves is to hold sufficient resources to continue the charitable activities of the District should income and fundraising activities fall short. The Trustees consider that the District should aim to retain a minimum financial reserve sufficient to support the operation of the District Scout Council for a period of twelve months.

Trustee Remuneration/Expenses

None of the Trustees received any fees or remuneration during the period. Any Trustees reimbursement of expenses incurred while fulfilling their roles and duties as Trustees, or in operational roles have been minimal, evidenced by receipts and are included in the financial statements with this report.

Declaration

The Trustees declare that they have approved the trustees report above. Signed on behalf of the Trustees of Chichester District Scout Council.

Peter Evans District Chairman Date:

Reports

District Chairman’s Report

Over the past year there have been many challenges for the National Scouting Movement that affect the District and Local Scout Groups.

This year we welcomed the installation of our new Chief Scout – Dwane Fields who has succeeded Bear Grylls. Dwane has proven leadership skills and has already been busy raising the profile of UK Scouting.

Following the tragic death of Ben Leonard and the publication via Gilwell Park of the Prevention of Future Deaths Report, it has highlighted many changes in the way we need to improve processes to protect our young people. I am pleased to see that leaders have adopted these changes and embedded them into our working processes.

The introduction of the new Scouts Online System that replaces Compass has bedded in well, the features in the system are well thought out, there were understandably concerns over the changes, but many of these have been resolved.

I am pleased to report that Uniformed Leadership in our District is excellent, many of our leaders work far in excess of the required role, be it planning and running their units as well as covering for other leaders when required, this has been noticed, and I thank you.

The development of the District Campsite moves on slowly; the site is open and secure. However, the planning process is proving a challenge to all involved, at the time of writing we await the deliberations of the National Park Planning Officers and Committee, once permission is obtained, we will be able to commence fund raising for the buildings.

I thank the recruitment team and the welcome team for their work, getting out there running recruitment events and raising the name of Scouting in our local communities does work.

I have purposely not mentioned individual names as every member of our scouting leadership team in my view should receive individual accolades, but I will single out Philip Prior our Lead Volunteer who somehow manages the Chichester and Bognor Districts and still keeps smiling.

Chichester District Scouts are in my view the best in the County, well done to all be you Leaders, Trustees, Scouting Members, Parents or Guardians keep up the good work, you are all part of a strong and reliable team.

Peter Evans Chairman – Chichester Trustee Board

District Treasurers Report

The financial position of the District can be found in our separate financial report, which has been scrutinised by Mrs Heather Cheesman, ACA.

In summary, the financial position of the District finances continue to be stable and despite our funds reducing we have sufficient funds to cover our contingency of 2 months running costs. We have restricted ring-fenced sums for the campsite, Downland Support Team, Jamboree and balances relating to a closed group. Our restricted funds equate to approximately 50% of our total funds.

Our main income during the year were the membership funds from the groups within the district, but we also received a donation of £10,000 towards our campsite, and money from the Cowdry Sponsored horse ride for two years which amounted to £8,200. We also invoiced a number of groups for scout shop invoices which related to the current and previous year, as well as paying for scout shop stock which had been received.

Our accounts also include Beaver and Scout events such as the junior downsman competition for 12th Chichester Scouts and a beaver camp. Also included are the Explorer accounts, which included a trip to Kandersteg.

Our planning application submitted for our new scout centre on our campsite has not yet been granted so we have not received any funds related to that project during the current year. During the coming years we are hoping to start fundraising for the new scouting centre at the Camp site.

Apart from the Explorers, Beaver and Scout transactions the Districtss major costs during the year were the paying over of our membership funds to County, paying for Scout shop stock and the ongoing planning application costs for the new centre at the campsite.

Emma Prince Treasurer

District Lead Volunteers Report

This year has seen more active Scouting across the District with all Groups working hard. We continue seeing Young People achieve top sectional awards across all sections. The Census at the beginning of the year again saw an unexpected small rise is numbers across the district, thank you to those Groups who continue to support the Growth team in their efforts to find adults for sections in need allowing us to open more spaces to Youth members.

The end of 2024 saw a huge amount of time and effort as we headed towards transformation and the launch of the new Scouts adult membership system, my thanks go to everyone for their support and acceptance of the new system, it has not been an easy transition but it has worked well locally with events being run to support adults to access and use the system. We continue to work with adults in the system. The Transformation also saw role titles change for some, this included Group Scout Leaders who become Group Lead Volunteers, Section Leaders who become Team Leaders and their assistants who become Team Members. Deputy District Commissioner's become Team Leaders for either Volunteering and Growth, Programme or Support. My own role changes to District Lead Volunteer, I think this suits the role better as many members of the public feel my role is a paid and not a voluntary role. The clear role title of Lead Volunteer leaves little room for thinking it is a paid role.

September saw our first leader's social event held as a drop-in session with help bases for the new membership system, learning and growth. All paired suitably to ample tea, coffee and cake. In March we held our second cross District growth event, this time in Bosham Village Hall. We saw some good attendance during the day with adults looking to offer time to help Groups, some new Youth members for Groups without waiting lists and some dignitaries who took a keen interest in what Scouting in Chichester can offer to their communities.

The coming year will see us continue working hard to recruit adult members across the District to support the growth and development of the District. Over the past year the Recruitment team has been one of the teams I have aligned with teams in Bognor District including the Welcome Team. Managing both Districts works well with all teams acting in the same ways and both support me to oversee both Districts.

As you will be able to see in our annual report book all Teams and Sections have been very busy and working hard. Many activities, nights away, badge events, competitions and many other activities. The welcome and learning teams are working hard to keep on track with new members and ongoing learning to assist people. The Campsite at West Dean is an ongoing project that we look forward to developing and growing the use of.

My thanks go to all my team for all their many hours of hard work and dedication to Scouting in Chichester and across to Bognor. The old adage that Scouting is two hours a week seems true, but for some I do believe it’s two hours off.

A big thank you also goes to the Trustee Board who support the operational side of the district in full. My final thank you goes to all members of the district for their continued support across the district.

Philip Prior District Lead Volunteer

Squirrel Annual Report

We are thrilled that there are now two Squirrel Drey’s in the District, with 12[th] having started a Drey in addition to Tangmere. Both have good numbers and have been active, linking together for joint activities including with the Bognor Drey.

Beaver Annual Report

In the year to April 25, we had a camp in July 24 at Yapton where about 60 beavers enjoyed a range of activities, finishing up with a campfire and a night under canvas. In February this year we ran a badge day, with 50+ beavers earning the health and fitness badge. Our thanks to 12th for the loan of their headquarters.

Also, a big thank you from me to all the Beaver leaders who make these events possible.

Nick Halton LV Beavers

Cub Annual Report

We started the year with a District badge day in April, the day was well attended and all the cubs achieved the science badge. We had St Georges day parade, and this was well attended by all sections.

In May we ran our box cart event at Bishop Luffa, the cubs had a great day doing time trials. We held our sand castle competition, but due to a miss reading of the tide table it turned out to be a stone castle event! However, everyone still had fun and Westbourne left with the shield. At the end of June we held the district cub camp at Lyons Copse. The camp was attended by 109 cubs that took part in Olympic themed activities for the weekend. The camp pennant was won by Westbourne followed closely by Southbourne. After camp we held our quiz around Chichester, and this was attended by the groups that attended camp.

In November some of the pack took part in the district orienteering competition in Slinden woods, followed in February by a district badge day. We covered the money skills badge and all that attended achieved the badge. On the 1st March we held a rugby end ball day that was run by the Birdham team - the cubs had a great time.

I would like to thank all the cub team for all their hard work to help run these events, and all the helpers and parents for their help and support. Thanks to the district support team for their help on some of our event.

Andy Mace Programme Team Lead

Scout Annual Report

Scouts have had a busy year, ably organised by Scout Leaders, in particular Tony Tunnell (12th Chichester), Dave Wingham (Southbourne) and Simon Bartlett (Westbourne) in the absence of an official District Scout Leader which is needed. Events are getting bigger and require more effort to arrange.

Competition run during the year were won by:

Scout Pennant YE May 2024 1st Westbourne JD Junior 1st Westbourne JD Novice Funtington & West Stoke District Orienteering u12 1st Westbourne District Orienteering u14.5 1st Southbourne Cooking Competition Funtington & West Stoke Shooting Competition 1st Westbourne

For the Junior Downsmen competition, whilst the campsite within the South Downs was an idyllic location, it did come at a cost to the teams taking part as it was a commercial property, and we did not get the discount we were hoping for. A campsite for JD 2025 has already been arranged and this will mark the 60th anniversary of the competition.

We had approx. 180 young people enjoy the District Scout (and Explorer) Camp at Hammerhead Farm in Trotton, where 1st Westbourne were crowned the winners for the 2024 Scout Pennant. They celebrated in style as it was the first time they had won this event in 50 years. We also took the liberty of upgrading the wastewater containers for proper Portaloo toilets, which proved a big hit, and made the Camp Permit a “Campsite” rather than “Greenfield” permit.

The highlight of 2024 was the Scouts Christmas Party which everyone looks forward to. Butlins was getting expensive for what they provided, so instead we struck a deal with Out of Bound in Angmering for an exclusive party, with food and use of their inside activities. This proved to be a big hit and has already been booked for 2025.

Overall, another very busy and exciting year for all the Scouts in the district. Well done to all the leaders and helpers that have made this possible.

Tony Tunnell

Group Scout Leader, 12th Chichester Scout Group

Explorer Annual Report

This has been a great year for Explorers in the District, with a very active and exciting programme. Explorer numbers continue to be very healthy with nearly 90 members and a committed leadership team. All three of our units now have a waiting list, but we are just managing to accommodate all those coming up from the Scout sections.

The highlight for this year was our trip to Switzerland. We took a party of 60 from across the District to the Kandersteg International Scout Centre for 10 days. This is a permanent mini jamboree site where there were some 2,000 scouts from about 40 countries. We did white water rafting, canyoning, a high ropes course, hikes into the mountains and a day trip to Bern. In addition to these adrenaline fuelled activities, some of the most enjoyable aspects were the international elements on the campsite. These provided a truly international perspective on Scouting through lots of organised and impromptu activities, sports, parties and celebrations. We have already booked and are planning for our return in 2027.

We took part in the annual District Scout camp and for the first time in many years, we had a specific County Explorer Camp – with the explorers on the go for 24hrs of absolutely packed fun activities alongside their peers from around the County. We also sent a small party on a Scout sailing expedition on the Norfolk Broads at Easter, who had a fantastic time with Scouts from 7 other Counties on 20 boats.

A large number of Explorers take part in the DofE scheme and we have had the usual round of expeditions this year, with more planned for May and Oct 2025. We have had 5 explorers qualify for Bronze, 6 for Silver and 2 for Gold this year with a few more very close to completing their next award.

Young Leaders is a key component of the Explorer provision, with many of them providing invaluable support to leaders across the District. The success of the scheme is indicated by the numbers that we have volunteering, the progression they are making towards their Young Leader belts and the positive comments that we receive from the sections they help.

Looking forward to this summer, the Explorers are taking part in the West Sussex International Jamboree – which promises to be an action-packed week alongside local Scouts and Guides as well as some from around the world.

Richard Williams District 14 – 24 Team Lead

Network Report

The Chichester (Dolphin) Network caters for our 18-25 year old members. Most of the members are also leaders in the various sections around the District.

Last summer (2024), five of the Network members joined the Explorers on their summer camp in Switzerland. With no room on the bus, the Network were challenged to get themselves to Kandersteg. Via an assortment of planes, trains and automobiles they all arrived on time, having had some exciting adventures on route. The trip to Kandersteg was fantastic and made up for this cohort who had missed out an international Explorer camp because of COVID.

This coming summer (2025), two of the Network are taking part with 6,000 other international Scouts in the World Scout Moot in Portugal. This is another fantastic opportunity to meet and interact with Scouts from around the World and have a shared experience. The pair opted not to take the UK organised flights and instead are going on a circuitous route via France, Andorra and Spain taking buses and trains to see more of the countries on route.

Richard Williams District 14 – 24 Team Lead

Volunteering and Development Team Annual Report

The team have had a very busy year taking part in many community events including Chichester gala, Chichester Pride, Stansted family festival, Tangmere aviation museum family day and more. These have all been very successful days both being visual to highlight the profile of local Scouting, but also recruiting young people and adults. We purchased a giant connect 4 game to take out with us from donations that we received at these events.

We held our first District social event in September which was a nice opportunity for people to just come and sit and chat with each other, while learning the new system, getting training signed off and more.

In November we opened up our 2nd squirrel drey at 12th Chichester Scout Group, and we are working on opening our 3rd one in Southbourne in April. November brought challenges with the new system coming in, and I have been really lucky to have been able to form sub teams for the welcome team, learning team and awards team. The teams have all been working really hard to learn the new system and the welcome team especially have done a fantastic job of catching up on overdue welcome conversations.

We held our second recruitment roadshow in March at Bosham village hall. We came away from this with 2 young leaders and a team member for Noviomagus, but again it’s a brilliant way of promoting Scouting in the local community. We have been working very closely with the Funtington Scout Group and held a recruitment evening for them, which was really well attended.

I would like to say a big thank you to every single person who has joined the Volunteering and Development team.

I have to say a special thankyou to Helen who does a fantastic behind the scenes job supporting me and doing a lot of my admin for me. Also, the whole team that give up their time at weekends to come out in the community. We wouldn’t be seeing the results that we are without their continued support.

Liz Mace

Volunteering and Development Team Lead

Downland Support Team

The Downland Support Team has not been as active socially in recent years, including this one, but individual members still provide support to the campsite and events such as the Sponsored Horseride, which in the case of the horseride provide valuable funds to the District. It is hoped that at some point the Downland Support Team will become more active again, but as always, the support of those members involved in events or providing support to teams, such as the welcome team, is invaluable.

Philip Prior District Lead Volunteer

West Dean Campsite Report

The Campsite has been closed for the majority of the year as considerable time and effort by Campsite Manager Geoff Strickland (now Campsite Warden) and other volunteers has been spent preparing the site in line with the very latest Safety and Safeguarding requirements. Storage containers have been moved, and gas and other items removed from site. This has also included the installation of new and lengthy high fencing to the South and East boundaries and peripheral signage, as well as a new composting toilet facility. The Campsite is open for 2026 Bookings which can be made through Geoff Strickland.

New Scout Campsite Centre . An application for the new facilities replacing those situated previously on the land that has been handed back to the Edward James Foundation, and South Downs National Park for ‘The Centurion Way’, was validated by SDNPA Planning on 8[th] January 2025 but as of 15[th] September 2025 the Application is still ‘In Progress’. This is despite no objections being made, a very large number of letters of support being received by the public and stakeholders and considerable costs being incurred by the District in providing a range of additional information. It is hoped ‘Approval’ will soon be granted. Martyn Bell will then lead a newly formed ‘Fundraising Team’ to raise the monies for the “Newbuild Project”

Martyn Bell Trustee & Campsite Sub-Committee Chair

Chichester District Scout Shop Report

Following a difficult previous year the Scout Shop is now operating more smoothly, providing badges and uniforms with some of the sale monies being returned to groups across the District. With the support of Emma, our District Treasurer, the invoicing has been brought up to date and outstanding monies received with thanks from those who have ordered. Going forward there are some issues to resolve with our bank account access to ensure signitaries are available, but again with Emma’s support we hope to resolve this shortly.

Thank you to all those who have supported the Scout Shop during the year.

Kate Crockford Badge Secretary

Chichester Scout District Council Receipts and Payments Account

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Year start date Year end date
For the year
2024 To 2025
from
Receipts and payments
2024/25 2023/24
Unrestricted Restricted Endowment
Total funds Total funds
funds funds funds
£ £ £ £ £
Receipts
Donations, legacies and similar
income
Membership subscriptions 41,764 - - 41,764 32,904
Less: Membership subscriptions paid on (National/County/Area/District) -35,760 - - -35,760 -29,700
Net membership subscriptions retained 6,005 - - 6,005 3,204
Donations - - - -
Legacies - - - -
Gift Aid 1,990 - 1,990 1,468
Other similar income - - - -
Sub total 7,995 - - 7,995 4,671
Grants
Maintenenace grant - - -
Other grants - - -
Sub total - - -
Fundraising (gross) - -
Scout Shop/Badges 5,425 5,425 366
Explorer Scouts 2,074 59,750 61,824 38,401
Campsite/Headquarters 10,000 10,000 2,274
Scout Active Support - - 22
Jamboree Fund - - -
Scout camps 7,569 7,569
Cub/Beaver Camps 1,055 1,055 425
Other fundraising activities 8,614 1,504 10,118 1,886
Sub total 16,113 79,879 - 95,991 43,375
Investment income
Bank interest 51 51 24
Building Society interest 21 21 -
The Scout Association Short Term
- 69
Investment Service
Property Rent income - -
Other investment income - 4,211
Sub total 72 - - 72 4,304
Total Gross Income 24,180 79,879 - 104,058 52,349
Asset and investment sales, etc. - - - - -
Total receipts 24,180 79,879 - 104,058 52,349
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Chichester Scout District Council Receipts and Payments Account

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Year start date Year end date
For the year
2024 To 2025
from
Receipts and payments
2024/25 2023/24
Unrestricted Restricted Endowment
Total funds Total funds
funds funds funds
£ £ £ £ £
Payments
Charitable Payments
Youth programme and activities 32 32 510
Adult support and training/recruitment 1,058 1,058 -
Rent - - -
Water and Sewerage - -
Electricity and Gas - -
Insurance 153 153 1,953
Repairs and Renewals - -
Materials and equipment - 362
Website, printing and photocopying - -
Professional fees - -
Uniforms - -
AGM and trustee expenses 147 147 111
St Georges Day 1,968 1,968 1,619
HQ Rates - -
Donations 100 100 1,468
Other costs - - -
Sub total 3,358 100 - 3,458 6,024
Section expenses
Scout Shop/Badges 8,290 8,290 -
Explorer Scouts 4,064 71,478 75,542 22,892
Campsite/Headquarters 26,097 26,097 29,022
Scout Active Support 30 30 71
Jamboree Fund - - 7,945
Scout camp and activities 7,885 7,885
Cub/Beaver camps 846 846
Group funds - 8,079
Other fundraising costs 1,499 - 1,499 -
Sub total 12,355 107,836 - 120,190 68,008
Total Gross Expenditure 15,713 107,936 - 123,648 74,032
Asset and investment purchases, etc. - -
Total payments 15,713 107,936 - 123,648 74,032
Net of receipts/(payments) 8,467 -28,057 - -19,590 -21,683
Transfers between funds - 7,995.12 7,995.12 0 - -
34,452 54,341 - 92,405 114,087
Cash funds this year end 34,924 34,279 - 72,814 92,405
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Chichester Scout District Council

		Year start date		Year end date
For	the year from	2024	To	2025

Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the year

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31-Mar-24
31-Mar-25
Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total funds
Total funds
funds funds funds
£ £ £ £ £
Cash funds
District current account 28,573 16,345 - 44,918 48,045
District deposit account 4,947 4,947 4,896
Explorers current account 17,934 17,934 29,661.51
Scout Shop/Badges 1,272 1,272 £5,960.39
The Scout Association Short Term
Investment Service - -
Cash/Floats 132 132 231
Total cash funds 34,924 34,279 - 69,203 88,794
Other monetary assets
Tax claim - - - - -
Debts due from the
4,004 - - 4,004 -
County/Area/District/Group
Insurance claim - - - - -
Sub total 4,004 - - 4,004 -
Investment assets
Investment property - detail - - - - -
Quoted investments - - - - -
Other investments - detail - - - - -
Sub total - - - - -
Non monetary assets for charity's
own use
Badge stock 3,122 - - 3,122 3,252
Shop stock 1,072 - - 1,072 879
Other stock - - - - -
Land and buildings - - - - -
Motor vehicles - - - - -
Scouting equipment, furniture etc - - - - -
Sub total 4,194 - - 4,194 4,131
Liabilities
Accounts not yet paid - - - - -
Expenses incurred but not invoiced - - - - -
Subscriptions not yet paid - - - -
Loan - detail - - - - -
Other liabilities - - - -
Sub total - - - - -
The above receipts and payments account and statement of assets and liabilities were approved by the Trustees on
and signed on their behalf by
Signature Print Name
Peter Evans Chair
Emma Prince Treasurer
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Chichester Scout District Council

	For the year from	Year start date 2024	To	Year end date 2025
Notes to the accounts
1. Restricted funds Explorers Thorney Island Jamboree Scout Active Support Campsite Generator fund/Other Scout and Beaver camps Scout investment 2. Campsite Lease 3. Membership Subscriptions Debts due from groups at the start of the yea Received in the year Debts due from groups at the end of the yea Membership Subscriptions receivable Less Membership subscriptions paid on Net Membership subscriptions due to be reta The Campsite Lease has been renewed for centre will be approved soon.	Cash funds at the start of the year receipts 29,661 59,750 1,011 262 - 9,930 9,265 10,000 1,504 8,624 4,211.00 54,340 79,879 # r r ined another 30 years and temporary toilets have bee

Chichester Scout District Council

----- Start of picture text -----
Year start date Year end date
For the year
2024 To 2025
from
----- End of picture text -----

4. Les Brookes fund

In 1982 the above fund was established. It was transferred to District in the year ended 31 March 1995.

The objective of the fund is:

To direct the income for the benefit in scouting. Possible objectives might be to help a boy go to a jamboree, Provide equipement for the District Campsite, help the less well off to buy uniforms or necessary equipment, donate copies of scouting for Boys to new scouts or help in training boys or scouters.

The fund is available to all groups in the district if they feel they have someone or something which meets the above objectives

Les brooks fund

2019
Held as Capital
Held as revenue available for distribution
2020
Grants given
jamboree
Held as Capital
Held as revenue available for distribution
2021
Held as Capital
Held as revenue available for distribution
2022
Held as Capital
Held as revenue available for distribution
2023
Held as Capital
Held as revenue available for distribution
We are also holding £330 in general reserves for the Les brooks fund
2024
Held as Capital
Held as revenue available for distribution
We are also holding £330 in general reserves for the Les brooks fund
2025
Held as Capital
Given as donation
Held as revenue available for distribution
We are also holding £130 in general reserves for the Les brooks fund

1,559
2,175
3,734
200
1559
2,000
3,559
1559
2,021
3,580
1559
2026
3,585
1559
2026
3,585
(2022:£330)
1559
2026
3,585
(2023:£330)
1559
100
1926
3,485
(2023:£330)
Balance at the end
of the year

Independent Examiners Report to the Trustees of the Chichester Scout District Council

Year ended 31 March 2025

I report on the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2025.

This report is made solely to the Trustee, as a body, in accordance with section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 and regulations made under section 154 of that Act. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the Trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an Independent examiner’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law. I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Trustees as a body, for my work on this report.

RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF TRUSTEES AND INDEPENDENT EXAMINER

The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to:

examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act,
to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commissioner under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act, and
to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

BASIS OF INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S STATEMENT

My examination was carried out in accordance with general Directions given by the Charity Commissioner. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair’ view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in, any material respect, the requirements:
to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and
to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act

have not been met; or

to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Heather Cheesman FCA

Chartered Accountant 104 Stockbridge Road Chichester West Sussex PO19 8QP

Date: 6[th] September 2025