Scouts Annual Report 2024 - 202541 plGy¢ r. '¥}
Chair’s Welcome
Thank you all for making the 1st Merton Park Scout Group such a great Group to be part of. 2024 has seen a number of new changes in the Group, from the adoption of new ways of working and a new membership system across the UK Scouts Association to a changing of the guard across a number of key roles within our Group.
As always, we are thankful for all the volunteers whose hard work and effort keeps the Group running and provides so many wonderful opportunities for our young people. Whether it’s turning up to run weekly sessions, running admin behind the scenes or shepherding cold/wet/tired/overexcited young people round a challenge course in the early hours of the morning, we couldn’t do it without you and we are very grateful.
We have had another great year with all of our Sections, and we remain incredibly popular as a Group. We have been fortunate to welcome some new members of the volunteer team this year, but have also said goodbye to those moving on to new roles. We are still looking to recruit more hands to spread the load, so if you can spare us some of your time please do have a conversation with Jonny, myself or another member of the volunteer team about what you’d be interested in getting involved with.
We have opportunities to help out with weekly meetings and also with administration behind the scenes, depending on skills and preference of our volunteers. We look for specific roles when there is a particular need, however we can always find ways for people to help out, so if there’s a special skill set you feel you can offer please do let us know.
Emma Maddison Chair
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Group Lead Volunteer’s Report
It’s been a year of change, growth, and continued adventure for our young people, [Insert Report from Group Scout Leader] and I’m pleased to share some reflections on our progress and achievements.
Firstly, I would like to acknowledge the change in leadership within the group. I took over as Group Lead Volunteer in October 2024, and I want to thank the previous leadership team for their dedication and hard work in keeping the group running smoothly. Stepping into this role has been both an exciting and rewarding challenge, and I am grateful for the support from our amazing team of volunteers from the Group as well as the District.
All of our sections continue to thrive, providing fantastic opportunities for our members. It has been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and energy, and I want to thank our section volunteers for their ongoing commitment. The activities and experiences they provide are making a significant impact, giving our members a fantastic experience in Scouting.
Across all sections, from Squirrels to Scouts, our young people have had an actionpacked year. We’ve seen fantastic badge work, engaging weekly meetings, and some incredible trips and camps. Some of the highlights include:
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Our annual summer camp, where Scouts tackled adventurous activities and built new friendships.
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Our Cubs paintballing day with the District, which challenged them to test their skills and aim.
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Squirrels enjoying their exciting outings and hands-on activities.
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Beavers working hard on their Skills Challenge Badge and developing essential skillsfor life with many working towards their Chief Scout Bronze Award.
None of this would be possible without our dedicated team of volunteers. From our uniformed leaders to our trustee board and parent helpers, I want to say a huge thank you. Your time, energy, and commitment make a real difference in the lives of our young people, and I deeply appreciate everything you do.
Looking ahead, we have big plans for the coming year. We are focusing on growing our leadership team, developing our programme further, and ensuring we continue to offer the best possible experiences for our members. We are always looking for new volunteers, whether to help run a section, support events, or assist behind the scenes – if you’re interested, please do get in touch.
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Group Lead Volunteer’s Report Cont.
Finally, I want to thank all the parents and carers for your continued support. Scouting is a partnership, and your involvement – whether helping with transport, attending events, or simply encouraging your child’s participation – is invaluable. Here’s to another fantastic year of Scouting at 1st Merton Park!
Yours in Scouting,
Jonny Reeks Group Lead Volunteer
1[st] Merton Park Scout Group
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Scouts 1st Merton Park Squirrels
Squirrels Section Team Report
This past year has been quite a remarkable journey for our Squirrels group. We have seen the original cohort of twelve Squirrels, who started with us when we opened, climb up to Beavers, paving the way for new members to join. As we welcome a fresh group of Squirrels, we are optimistic about reaching that milestone of twelve members once again. This growth in our group signifies the importance of Scouting in our community, and we are excited about the new adventures this cohort will bring.
Throughout the year, we engaged in a variety of meetings that enriched our Squirrels' experiences. From active games and creative activities like milkshake making and really getting their hands dirty with planting flowers to culturally insightful events during Diwali and Lunar New Year, our programme has truly embraced fun and learning. Noteworthy moments included our obstacle course and camping sessions, which helped build teamwork and resilience among the Squirrels. These activities, coupled with our regular meet and greet sessions, played a vital role in fostering friendships and creating a supportive environment for all.
Looking back at our past events, the Summer Group Camp and Remembrance Sunday stood out as significant occasions. These events offered valuable opportunities for further development and community involvement, allowing our Squirrels to forge deeper connections with each other and with the wider community.
As we look forward to the coming year, we are keen to increase outdoor activities and plan hikes to local parks, creating more opportunities for our Squirrels to explore and appreciate nature. We are also excited about the potential for more collaborative events within the district, reflecting the growth of the Squirrel program.
It is with gratitude that we thank our leaders for their tireless support over the year. A special mention goes to Sam, who has been an invaluable helper during his time with Squirrels. We are thankful for his contributions and are pleased that he will continue to support us as he moves up to Beavers. Additionally, we welcome new leader Ricky, who joined us this term along with his son, bringing new energy and perspective to our group.
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In closing, I would like to extend my appreciation to all the children for their enthusiastic participation and to the parents for their unwavering support. Acknowledging our volunteers who work behind the scenes is equally important, as they play a fundamental role in making our group a success. We look forward to another year filled with adventure, camaraderie, and personal growth in Scouting.
Kerry, Marilia and Ricky Squirrels Section Team
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Scouts 1st Merton Park EhVEt<s
Beavers Section Team Report
Over the past year, we’ve had a packed schedule with various meetings and events. We've had activities, games and badge work, included a visit from a Doctor (and parent), trips to local parks and the church, litter picking, fire lighting, whittling, cooking, Remembrance Sunday and Mothers' day church parades and more. In 2024 we awarded 9 Chief Scout Bronze awards (every Beaver who swam up to cubs).
District events included the St George's day parade, a district Beavers camp fire, laser tag and in 2024, a Wimbledon and Wandle District Beavers camp, which saw 1st Merton Parks beavers camping outside under canvas for the first time.
With the other sections of 1st Merton park we collaborated with Squirrels for our Christmas party, and all sections for the Sausage sizzle and Group Camp at Frylands Wood.
Numbers have been a little lower than capacity, at between 18 and 22. We have an enthusiastic and reliable team of volunteers, but as always, need to have an eye on recruiting new adult volunteers.
Andrew, Josephine, Victoria, Sam and Marilia Beavers Section Team
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Scouts 1st Merton Park cubs
Cubs Section Team Report
During the past year, the Nelson Cubs Pack has engaged in a variety of activities aimed at enriching the experience of our members. We have held numerous meetings that covered a range of topics, from earning badges such as the Cyclist and Gardener badges to practical skills in backwoods cooking and emergency aid. Special occasions were celebrated with events like Father's Day, Mother's Day, and our Cubs Got Talent evening, which provided opportunities for the Cubs to showcase their talents to their peers.
The Cubs also took part in various exciting events throughout the year. Notable experiences included trips for Group Camp, a fun Swimming Gala, and the Cubs Paintballing day, all of which contributed to building friendships and instilling teamwork among the members. Community involvement was another highlight, with the Cubs participating in events like Remembrance Sunday and visits to local institutions, including the Mitcham Fire station. The enthusiasm of the Cubs was palpable during trips, such as the Christmas outing to Clip & Climb, ensuring a memorable conclusion to the year.
This year, we were pleased to present eight Chief Scout Awards, which are a significant achievement, reflecting dedication and commitment among our Cubs. It's always rewarding to see the hard work paying off for those who strive towards their scouting goals.
Looking to the future, there are exciting district events and camps planned for the coming year. These opportunities will not only help our Cubs develop new skills but also create lasting memories as they explore the great outdoors and challenge themselves.
As we look ahead, we offer our heartfelt gratitude to all leaders for their tireless efforts in making this year successful and enjoyable. Your commitment to our Cubs has created a nurturing environment where they can learn and grow.
Finally, we would like to extend our gratitude to the Cubs themselves; your enthusiasm makes every activity rewarding for everyone involved. We also appreciate the parents for your continuous support and all volunteers who help behind the scenes to ensure the smooth functioning of our group. Here’s to another wonderful year of Scouting!
Jane, Tony, Geoff, Julianne and Jonathan Nelson Cubs Section Team
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Scouts 1st Merton Park SCOUTS
Scouts Section Team Report
The scouts had a very busy and exciting 2024, which resulted in a significant increase in challenge badges awarded within the group, reflecting our members' dedication and hard work. A total of twenty challenge badges were awarded throughout 2024. Notably, Tristan Green and Athena Katzanos achieved their Gold Scout Awards, making them the first scouts in several years to earn this prestigious award. Their accomplishment is a positive sign of the great potential within our group, and we anticipate even more top awards being earned in the upcoming year.
We are proud to report that we now have 30 scouts on roll, with an average of 25 attending each week. This consistent turnout indicates a growing interest in scouting activities and values. Additionally, we have been fortunate to have the ongoing assistance of Nic Katzanos, who has played a vital role in supporting our activities, as well as Andrew Maddison, who has stepped in when needed to assist the section. Their contributions ensure that we can continue to offer engaging and rewarding experiences for our young members.
Throughout the year, many meetings were held that focused on various skills, themes, and badges; including movie making, environmental awareness with the Environmental Badge, and practical skills like baking, whittling, and first aid. The meetings provided opportunities for scouts to develop essential life skills while also fostering friendships and teamwork. Additionally, the scouts had the chance to participate in numerous adventurous activities, such as climbing at the boardroom, a fun athletics night, and a bell ringing event, all of which contributed to a diverse and enriching scouting experience.
Our group also participated in various district events that further enhanced the scouting experience. Scouts took part in activities ranging from paintballing to night hikes, as well as a District Skills Day, which allowed them to learn from members across the district. These events not only promoted camaraderie among the scouts but also provided new challenges and opportunities for growth.
As we prepare to say goodbye to Mark Renton, who has run the scouts section for many years, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for his unwavering commitment and dedication to the group. His contributions have made a lasting impact, and he will be greatly missed.
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In closing, we extend our thanks to the children for their enthusiasm and participation, which make our activities enjoyable for everyone involved. We also appreciate the parents for their continuous support and the volunteers who work diligently behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of our group. Looking ahead, we are excited for what the next year has in store, with more opportunities for growth and achievement in scouting.
Luke, Mark, Nic, Adrian, Charles and James Scout Section Team
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Trasurer’s Report
Treasurer’s Report
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1st Merton Park Scout group Receipts and Payments Account for the year ended 31 December 2024
| 2023 | 2024 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| £ p | £ p | £ p | |
| 17,655.43 | Opening Balances | 19,088.27 | |
| Receipts | |||
| 7,386.22 | Jumble Sales | 8,413.00 | |
| 13,698.55 | Subscriptions | 12,969.16 | |
| 6,005.34 | Camps | 6,502.24 | |
| 274.32 | Other | 540.00 | |
| 27,364.43 | All receipts | 28,424.40 | |
| 45,019.86 | Total of receipts and opening | balances 47,512.67 | |
| Less Payments | |||
| 3,536.24 | Rent and Hall hire | 3,554.78 | |
| 1,550.00 | Hut expenses | 1,754.17 | |
| 713.93 | Insurance | 774.83 | |
| 1,769.82 | Equipment | 649.88 | |
| 800.00 | Uniforms, Training and Books | 800.00 | |
| 200.00 | Admin, Stationery, Printing | 0.00 | |
| 9,977.15 | Camps and Activities | 12,435.55 | |
| 3,315.00 | HQ Membership (Note 3) | 3,906.00 | |
| 52.50 | Donations | 0.00 | |
| 1,208.45 | Jumble | 1,355.71 | |
| 2,808.50 | Explorer subs | 0.00 | |
| 25,931.59 | All payments | 25,230.92 |
19,088.27 Closing Balance
22,281.75
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| 2023 | Opening Balances | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| £ p | £ p | |
| 11,374.53 | National Westminster Bank Limited | 3,761.50 |
| 6,223.87 | Lloyds Bank | 15,269.74 |
| 57.03 | Cash | 57.03 |
| 17,655.43 | 19,088.27 | |
| 2023 | Closing balances | 2024 |
| £ p | £ p | |
| 3,761.50 | National Westminster Bank Limited | 7,916.84 |
| 15,269.74 | Lloyds Bank | 14,307.88 |
| 57.03 | Cash | 57.03 |
| 19,088.27 | 22,281.75 |
Liabilities
None
| 2024 | |
|---|---|
| Opening balance | £19,088.27 |
| Surplus (defcit) | 3,193.48 |
| Closing balance | £22,281.75 |
| 2023 | |
| Opening balance | £17,655.43 |
| Surplus (defcit) | £1,432.84 |
| Closing balance | £19,088.27 |
| 2022 | |
|---|---|
| Opening balance | £22,196.21 |
| Surplus (defcit) | -£4,540.78) |
| Closing balance | £17,655.4 |
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Volunteer!
We are always on the lookout for volunteers to help us run our weekly sections or if you want to help behind the scenes, there is a role for you!
Visit 1stmertonparkscouts.org.uk or reach out to hello@1stmertonparkscouts.org.uk to find out more about our open roles.
SkillsForLife
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