Scouts
1st Cheshunt
22, June 2022
Scout Group AGM report
## Index
## • 2021 AGM minutes
- Group manager report
- Treasurer report
- Balance sheet
- Beavers report
- Cub – Badgers report
- Cubs – Stags report
- Scouts report
- Chairman Report
## **1[st] Cheshunt Scout Group**
## **AGM 1[st] July 2021 Minutes**
## **Apologies**
Brad, Reg, Colin, Stacey F
## **Present**
Paul, Val, Santo, Jamie, Rob, Stacey A, Billy, Jon, Tracy, Sarah, Matthew, Jack Medhurst,
## **Minutes of Last Annual General Meeting**
As per AGM Report provided
## **Chairman Report**
As per AGM Report provided
## **Treasurer Report**
As per AGM Report provided
## **Nomination of Chairman**
Stacey Arnold Elected – Approved by Paul Mills, seconded by Val Greyson
## **Nomination of Secretary**
Sarah Barford Elected – Approved by Paul Mills, seconded by Jon Middleton
## **Nomination of Treasurer**
Val Greyson Elected – Approved by Jon Middleton, seconded by Jamie Murray
## **Approval of nominated members of the Group Executive Committee**
Approved by Val, seconded by Santo – to be confirmed when we’re back to face-to-face meetings
## **Election of members of the Group Executive Committee**
If any leaders decide not to continue on the exec committee, they have a choice to leave. No response to leave. Approved by Jon and seconded by Santo
## **Appointment of an Independent Examiner**
Ian Clibbon Appointed – Approved by Santo, seconded by Jon
## **Section Leaders Reports**
As per AGM Report provided
## **Presentation of Awards**
Presentation of Awards – Due to Covid-19 this will be held later in the year
## **Remarks by the District Commissioner’s Representative Jack Medhurst**
“You have the DC's report and from the district AGM so that's where we start with district point of view. And I'll just like to forward on my thanks to each and every one of you, the parents, our youth members and for all that you’ve be doing in exceptionally tough times and the DC appreciates that, and if there is anything that we can do, please let us know. Thank you all very much for all that you're doing great work”.
## **Any other business**
None
## **Date of next meeting**
TBC
## _**Group Manager Report - 1[st] Cheshunt**_
Following the submission of the group annual census, our numbers as of the 1[st] January 2022 stood at 78 youth members an increase of 20 from the previous year. With pandemic restrictions being eased and sections getting back to normal scouting I expect numbers will continue to increase over the next 12 months. The increase in youth membership is down to the fantastic leader we have, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for the continued commitment during these challenging times.
At the end of this 2021 Reg Chapman took a step back from being section leader of Stags Cubs a position he held for over 20 years and on behalf of 1[st] Cheshunt Scout Group I would like to thank him for his hard work and dedication in running the section, he has kindly agreed to remain as assistant cub scout leader and support Bex who has taken over as section leader.
Our other cub pack Badgers, also has a new section leader Santo. Since taking over the section the number in the pack has increased due to the hard work of himself and his leader team.
I am sure with the support of the leader team within 1[st] Cheshunt we can continue to grow as a group.
I would also like to thank Stacey our group chair and the committee, which is formed of leaders and parents for the help with keeping the group and the headquarters going through very challenging times. Unfortunately, covid has had a big impact on regular bookings and currently the building is costing more to run, that we are receiving income. Something that we hope to be able to reverse in the near future.
We have continued with fundraising where possible, with both the annual sleigh, November Fayre and Group dinner and dance taking place in the last year. These events have enabled us to replace some of the tents used by beavers, cubs and scouts.
To free up the leaders and enable them to concentrate of the running of their sections, we do require additional parent support on the group executive. We only meet about 6 times a year for a few hours in the evening. If you can offer your support, it would be appreciated.
Finally, my thanks to everyone who has helped in the last year, parents and leaders. Without your help and support the group would not be able to continue.
Paul Mills
Group Manager
## _**TREASURER REPORT 2021**_
As you can see, we still have healthy balances, but this is chiefly thanks to Broxbourne Council who have supported us during the pandemic by donating £12k in 2020 and a further £16,097 during 2021 which shows under fundraising.
HQ income has improved a little, but the outgoings still exceed our income although, as a group, the months we were meeting we transferred £160 to help towards this, we were still nearly £3500 short. Thankfully we did have a healthy balance at the start of the year, but we still had to pay the usual utility bills and the cleaner, who kept the building sanitised whilst we were shut. We desperately need to push for more parties and regular users. To help keep the HQ up to scratch we purchased a new cooker, and the leaders gave up time to give the building a once over.
Unfortunately, we did not feel comfortable holding the fireworks display as there had been another local out-break of COVID. We would have felt responsible, and our reputation would have been in tatters. We did manage to hold the Christmas Fayre, dinner dance and the Santa Sleigh. During the course of the year, the fund-raising committee purchased and did up a new trailer for the sleigh. All sections, leaders and committee members took part in the 2 weeks we walked round Cheshunt. We had been missed by the community and as such they were very generous, we received many a thank you, Facebook comments and raised over £3000.
The fundraising committee paid the £2952 capitalisation fees plus gave each section £200 towards activities.
As a result of HSBC starting to charge us £5 per month per account, plus cheque/cash fees we had to take the decision to close Beavers, Badgers and Scouts accounts with Stags closing early 2022. All payments in now go direct through the group account and during 2022 we are looking at transferring all the banking to a bank that allows us to do dual control internet banking which meets the scout’s association 2 signature rules.
Val
Treasurer.
## **1[st] CHESHUNT INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS 2021**
|2020|For The Year ending31stDecember|2021|
|---|---|---|
||||
||**INCOME**||
|2955.09|Membershipfee’s includingsubs|5028.90|
|702.50|Activities(includingcamps)|2969.00|
|13496.60|Fund Raising|22914.94|
|0.00|Interest Income|0|
|3198.74|Hut Hire|3315.00|
|131.56|Adjustments|0|
||||
|20484.49|**Total Income**|34227.84|
||||
||**EXPENSES**||
|4428.30|Membershipfees|2952.20|
|1708.26|General Section Expenses|1792.45|
|888.72|Activities(includingcamps)|2876.90|
|802.05|Fund Raising|2163.08|
|760.52|Insurance|848.57|
|2887.27|Utilities
(Light,
power,
water,
electric)|2384.81|
|3289.06|Cleaning|3151.06|
|125.00|Repairs|458.33|
|307.05|Equipment(group)|500.00|
|1197.75|Equipment(HQ)|736.01|
||Bank charges|14.74|
||||
|16393.98|**TOTAL EXPENSES**|17878.15|
||||
|4090.51|Surplus(deficit for theyear)|16349.69|
||||
||**ACCOUNT BALANCES**||
||||
|2509.43|GroupAccount|4622.50|
|8474.34|HQ|5490.56|
|23477.56|Rebuild/Fund raising|39962.48|
|7.00|Beavers|Closed|
|7.00|Badgers(Cubs)|Closed|
|19.56|Stags(Cubs)|776.04|
|7.00|Scouts|Closed|
||||
|34501.89|**TOTAL FUNDS**|50851.58|
Due to COVID limited fundraising was undertaken during 2021.
The £22914.94 showing as fundraising is made up of £16097 from Broxbourne Council COVID fund.
During the year Fund Raising paid the membership fee of £2952.20, gave each section £200 and paid £500 for the new Santa Sleigh.
Due to HSBC starting to charge for banking services it was decided that Badgers, Beavers and Scouts accounts be closed with Stags closing 2022. All section fees & activities will now go through the Group account.
I certify the above income and expenditure account represents a true and fair view of the financial position of the organisation on a group basis.
Ian Clibbon
## _**BEAVERS REPORT FOR THE YEAR 2021**_
## Sad to say, COVID stayed
We decided, due to the pressures parents were experiencing working from home and home schooling, that we would not do zoom meetings but get back asap. I am pleased to say, as soon as restrictions lifted, we were the first group back. We had 30 beavers (more than we should have) split between 2 sessions, 5 till 6 and 6.30 till 7.30. Observing strict guidelines and cleaning HQ between meetings, open windows and doors. We continued using beaver’s own folders, pencil cases and scrap books that we bought for them in 2020.
As soon as we could we got the beavers all back together which in itself was hard work as it had been over a year before we all met.
Since April we tried to give a varied programme which as the year wore on got better.
We undertook keep fit, drew maps and then walked around Cheshunt finding different places. Had fun doing the new money badge when they learnt it was better to save. They were all given sweets if they managed not to eat them and took them home, bringing them back the following week, they got more packets.
As part of a badge, they cleaned the HQ grounds, as a reward they cooked marshmallows on BBQ’s. They had fun and at the end of the evening their faces were a sticky picture.
The Lea Valley Park rangers came to see us along with their dogs and explained safety. They were so impressed with the children’s behaviour that they meet us when we did the end of term walk to McDonalds. Jamie Barnes (a former beaver) joined us for the walk and bought some of his creepy crawlies and animal skeletons with him, giving a brilliant nature talk.
Unfortunately, for another year, we couldn’t hold our beaver and parent camp, but we did manage to hold a sleepover in October which 15 beavers attended. Although, for many it was their 1[st] night away from parents, we only had 1 child who was a little upset, and it wasn’t the one we expected. Again, due to COVID restrictions, when the group had their delayed Christmas camp, beavers could only stay until dinner time. They enjoyed the time they were there, fingers crossed, next time in 2023 most will be cubs and can stay the whole weekend.
They have helped raise funds by collecting chocolates for a hamper used at the Christmas fayre with so much donated that we could do another one for the raffle at the group’s dinner dance. They also helped at the Santa Sleigh where we received many ‘Thank you’s’ from the
local community. The 2 Mondays they helped we raised £880 which was fantastic and has been used towards purchasing new tents at the beginning of 2022.
We have tried to make our investitures as memorable occasions as possible. So, parents could see, we did many out-side under the flagpole which was impressive when the Remembrance Day display was out. We also invested at St Mary’s Church when we had a very interesting evening there.
We also had a great response to the Remembrance Day parade. Considering they haven’t been able to do parades for a couple of years they looked very impressive and were well behaved.
COVID restrictions have now lifted but we are still feeling the impact in East Herts. We had 12 groups but have had 2-fold and a further 2 beaver colonies unable to start back due to lack of leader support and children. This is having an impact on our massive waiting list, and I am trying to get as many children through as possible often having more with us than we should. We are keeping ratios within strict safety guidelines and feel bad when we have to say no you can’t join or go on the list. This is also having an impact on cubs as our beavers have first refusal on spaces.
Let’s hope 2022 sees these colonies back up and running.
My thanks go to my righthand man Jon, Tracey and Rose who both enjoyed helping that they agreed to stay and Ian who unfortunately due to work and family commitments is unable to be here as much as he would like.
Val
## BSL – ADC Beavers
## **1st Cheshunt Annual Cub (Badgers) Report January - December 2021**
January 2021 and Covid restrictions still in place so Cubs weekly meeting was still via zoom. With our thinking hats on we came up with ideas to entertain the children over a computer screen. With being stuck at home we came up with (Evacuation items).
List or show us 5 essential items the cubs would pack in an evacuation situation, let me tell you there was some very interesting things the cubs really thought were Essential.
Thankfully we were able to return Face to Face meetings again and that’s when the fun started.
With the massive help from Mr Paul Mills guiding me, Me and the team with the weather on our side took to the great outdoors and went over to Lee Valley for a hike. With more Cubs on board and again with the help from this time Mr Rob Greyson we taught the Cubs how to start a fire in the HQ garden using natural materials.
Once again with the weather on our side we took to using the field at HQ to complete the Cubs Athletics badge taking part in various sport games in their groups. And there’s the Cubs thinking they were just having fun…. into split groups we took the Cubs around Cheshunt high street litter picking with black bags and litter pickers in hand to complete their Environment badge.
Off to 1[st] Wormley HQ for the Cubs to try their hand at rife shooting, as predicting their loved it.
And at long last the Cubs finally got to take part in the Remembrance Parade, we got a little wet, but they loved it, fantastic turn out.
With our new Santa Sleigh ready and Father Christmas strapped in, the Cubs took to the streets to follow Santa on his route, I think the parents enjoyed it more than the Cubs did.
The one I had personally been dreading but at the same time very excited for the Cubs, it was my first time taking the Cubs away since taking over to Tolmers for the weekend to celebrate Christmas camp. An absolute brilliant turnout from all parts especially the Cubs who were incredibly well behaved.
I would like to thank our young leaders Oliver and Mia in helping with the group each week, I would like to thank my wife Rose for helping me sort out everything I leave to the last minute, I would all so like to thank Paul Mills in helping me and guiding me in running my section of 25 Cubs that I have been very privileged to have.
Thank you to all the parent in their support and very kind words each week and a big thank you to all the children.
I want to say big thank you to Jamie for all his help and support especially with all the computer work. And I think he will agree in giving a MASSIVE MASSIVE thank you to Caitlin for coming back to the group and helping us both we really could not do It without her.
MANY THANKS TO YOU ALL, SANTO. (Akela)
## **1[st] Cheshunt “Stags" Cub Pack 2021 Report**
2021 saw us returning with Covid Restrictions in place, so weekly zoom meetings continued where we channelled our inner Mary Berry to make some sweet treats!
Fortunately, restrictions only lasted a short time, and we were able to return face to face. Was lovely to finally meet our new members in person rather than through a computer screen. Full advantage was taken, and a packed program commenced where we learnt how to manage a series of illnesses/injuries as we completed our Emergency Aid badge. The cubs also spent an evening at Tolmers playing wide games and enjoying a sausage sizzle and marshmallow cones toasted on a fire.
The cubs “took flight” where they flew paper airplanes – a task towards their “Our Skills” Challenge badge. The lighter evenings meant we could race around Cedars Park on our scooters looking for the information plaques to answer our quiz questions.
Our postponed camp went ahead at Tolmers where we partook in cub skills like fire-lighting, scavenger hunts and of course, an expedition through the woods ending in the mud slide! The cubs also enjoyed Kayaking, shooting and archery. All skills needed towards the “Outdoors” Challenge badge.
Of course, our end of term evening had to finish with S’mores which were enjoyed by cubs and leaders alike!
Autumn terms saw the cubs recycling plastic water bottles to make an underwater scene. They also made keyrings out of shrunken crisp packets.
End of year had the cubs making Christmas crafts and getting into the festive spirit by joining in with the Santa Sleigh.
I would like to thank Reg for, despite health concerns, returned to Stags to help support me transition to Akela. I would also like to thank Millie for her continued support and Paul Fletcher for setting up zoom meetings and helping when needed, and of course not forgetting Colin. A big thank you to all the cubs, and their parents, who have remained loyal and returned despite the Covid Restrictions. Thank you all!
Bex
## _**– 1[st] Cheshunt Scout Section Yearly Report for January December 2021**_
Well, the Start of the year saw us returning still in Covid restrictions and persevering with Zoom sessions, thankfully a distant memory now, this included online museum tours, scavenger hunts and cooking at home.
## April onwards
As soon as the cessation of restrictions allowed, we went head on into as many activities as possible. First up was a hike to Tolmers from HQ on hot Saturday afternoon, which included learning fire lighting skills and shelter building.
The summer term also saw us taking on cycling evenings around Lea Valley and 12 Scouts were able to take part in climbing training which included learning to fit and secure harnesses correctly and safely attach themselves to climbing ropes, this concluded with a practical session at The Young Mariners Base, climbing, traversing and abseiling.
## Autumn Term
Returning after the school holidays began with the yearly District fishing competition. We had several younger Scouts take part in the introductory element in which we taught them some basic fishing skills, all catching plenty of fish. We also had a Scout gain a medal for their catch in the older age category.
October saw us undertake and expedition challenge, where patrols planned their own meals and elements of the challenge. We undertook a hike to Gilwell on possibly the wettest day of the year, despite the horrendous conditions the large turnout of Scouts had an excellent weekend, thankfully the weather turned for the better on the Sunday for the walk back.
Remembrance Day parade retuned this November, which saw us march with a great turnout. Finally, December was a busy month. December camp returned to Tolmers for us, which included a day around London, we had a beautiful day ice skating at Greenwich in the grounds of the National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory. Several Scouts were able to be invested un the Temple Bar arch, at Paternoster Square. This the emblem on the 1st Cheshunt scarf and used to be in the grounds of Theobalds House in Cheshunt.
The Scouts gave us a fantastic turnout and support for the Santa’s sleigh run, many of the section supported the Cubs and Beavers on their nights too, which was lovely to see.
Despite the interruptions to the start of the year due to Covid, we hope we put on plenty of activities and opportunities to help support our Scouts move forwards with their time with us.
Paul, Billy, Brad and Rob
## _**– Group Chair AGM Report for January December 2021**_
Well, it’s been a good year starting to get back to some normal activities for the children and some fundraising for the group.
Like for all Scout groups in the UK, it’s been a challenging couple of years for 1[st] Cheshunt Scout Group. But because of all the hard work I have seen from all of 1[st] Cheshunt’s leaders and exec members, we have managed to put together some fantastic Zoom based activities for the Beavers, Cubs & Scouts and resuming face-to-face meetings again after easter. It’s been lovely to see the children getting back together and enjoying activities including Great turn out for the remembrance parade and seeing everyone looking smart.
I would like to give a big thank-you to all the leaders and helpers that work so hard and give up their time for 1[st] Cheshunt scout group. It’s not just the hours on a section night they give up, but the evenings planning a fun packed programme for all the children to enjoy. Also, the help they give for all the fundraising.
For the group to continue to thrive and raise money for the group and children, we need to some parents to help. Due to covid we haven’t been able to recruit any new parents to our exec committee to help. It would to be great to see some new friendly faces to join.
Thanks to some large grants from Broxbourne Council and the fundraising achievements of previous years, we have managed to come through this period relatively well, despite the loss of many forms of income and fundraising events this year and still facing significant financial commitments. It really does show the importance in everyone supporting our fundraising activities, this helps maintain our HQ, subsidise activities and equipment that supports all your children and their experiences in Scouting. So please note this year we are hoping to hold our fireworks display, a Christmas Fayre, dinner dance and of course Santa’s Sleigh. After the meeting, I will be coming round to chat to you all and see what opportunities there are for yourselves to support the group this year.
Again, a Big Thank you to everyone that has supported the group this year and I look forward a more active Scouting year and can’t wait to see all you parents supporting the group and joining the exec this year.
Stacey
Group Chair