# **SOUTH WEST CHESHIRE DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL** ## **ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING** **APRIL 12[TH] 2024** 1 ## **AGENDA** ## **Annual General Meeting** ## **South West Cheshire Scout Council** ## **April 12[th] 2024** - 1 Welcome by the outgoing District Lead Volunteer Ian Potts and introduction of the incoming District Lead Volunteer Dan Baldwin - 2 Apologies for absence - 3 Governance Matters - a. Approve the minutes of AGM held on 14[th] March 25[th] 2023 - b. Re Adopt the model constitution from POR - c. Note the District’s financial year (January 1[st] 2023 to 31[st] December 2023 - d. Agree the number of members that may be appointed to the Trustee Board - e. Agree the quorum for any future meetings of future meetings of the District Scout Council (excluding this AGM) - 4 Membership of the District Trustees Board - a Appointment of the Chair - b Appointment of other members of the trustees board - 5 Appointment of the Auditor - 6 Election of two Members of the District Scout Council for nomination to the County Scout Council - 7 Approval of the 2023 Annual Report of the District Executive Committee and the Financial Accounts for the year ending 31[st] December 2023 - 8 WSJ 25 presentation by participants - 9 The District Lead Volunteer report for 2023 - Awards - 10 The County Lead Volunteer - 11 Presentations 2 ## **DISTRICT OFFICERS 2023** |**Life President**
Mr P F Taylor
**President**
Vacant
**Vice Presidents**
Mr P Kent, Mr R Stafford
**Office Holders**
Chairperson
Mr R Chaplow
Treasurer
Mr R Bennett
Secretary
Mr J Bennett
**District Executive**
Chairperson
Treasurer
Secretary
District Commissioner
Deputy District Commissioner
District Explorer Scout Commissioner
District Youth Commissioner
**Elected Members**
Mrs C Wainwright
Mrs L Grasmeder
Mr J Barlow
Mr J Ellam
Mr D Brough
**Nominated Members**
Mr M Rowe
Miss D Blurton
Mr A Whalley
Mr C Shore
**County Scout Council Members**
Mrs I Shaw
Mrs L Grasmeder
**District Chaplain**Vacant|**District Commissioner**
Mr I Potts
**Deputy District Commissioner**
Mr J Statham
**District Explorer Scout Commissioner**
Ms I Shaw
**District Explorer Scout Administrator**
Mrs C Wainwright
**District Young Leader Unit Manager**
Ms D Blurton
**District Network Scout Commissioner**
Vacant
**District Youth Commissioner**
Mr T Austin
**Assistant District Commissioners**
Beaver Scouts
Miss S Fearn
Beaver Scouts Mr L Potts
Cub Scouts
Mr N Tomlinson
Scouts
Mr T Clark
Activities
Mr R Galloway
General Duties
Vacant
Development Vacant
SAS Manager
Mr J Wedgwood
**Local Training Manager**
Adult Training
Mrs J Taylor,

**Appointments Sub Committee Chair**
Mrs J Wilkinson
**District Scouters**
Mr A Collett, Mr B Westwood,
Mrs J Shore, Mrs A Bourke,
Mrs M Norbury, Ms G Evanson
**Registered Charity No: 506895**
**Scout Association Registered No:**
**10808**| |---|---| 3 ## **South West Cheshire District Scout Council** ## **Minutes of the Annual General Meeting Held on 14[th] May 2023 Nantwich Civic Hall** ## **1.0 Welcome** The District Commissioner, Ian Potts, took the Chair. There were 48 members and 1 guest present. Ian opened the meeting by welcoming all those present, including the county commissioner Dave Hopley. Ian announced that his nomination for District Chair was Dane Chaplow. Dane then took the chair for the remainder of the meeting. He began by asking those present to take a moment to reflect on those members and supporters of South West Cheshire Scout Council who had “Gone Home” since the 2019 AGM: Dorothy Basnett Janet Green Nick Crossley ## **2.0 Apologies** Apologies had been received from Katrina Fearn ## **3.0 Minutes of AGM held on 12th March 2021** Proposed, seconded and accepted as a true record. ## **4.0 Reports** **The Annual District Report for 2022** was considered by the meeting. Each contributor was invited to comment. The Report was accepted with special thanks from the Chair to all contributors for their efforts during the past year. ## **Appointments** The report was accepted, and no questions were raised. ## **Secretary** Nothing to add to the report, no questions were raised. ## **Beavers** The report was accepted, no questions were raised. Dane thanked the Beaver team for their report and asked that his thanks be conveyed to all Beaver leaders for their work. 4 ## **Cub Scouts** Again, no questions were raised by the attendees and Dane asked for thanks to be passed to all Cub Leaders for their work. ## **Scouts** The report was accepted, no questions were raised. Dane thanked Lise and Tim for their hard work during the year. ## **Explorer and Network** Nothing to add to the reports which were accepted. ## **District Young Leaders** Dane commented on the impressive numbers of belt buckles that had been awarded in the district and thanked Di Blurton for her efforts in managing the programme. ## **Milldale** Carl thanked everyone for their input and support, a lot of hard work on the site had been achieved. Dane also thanked the Milldale team for their efforts and stated that in Milldale the district had a fantastic facility. ## **Activities** ## **Sailing** The report was accepted Carl commented on the successful taster sessions run during the year. ## **Canoeing** The report was accepted. ## **Shooting** Given the huge success of Shooting in the district Ian recommended the use of the facilities at Milldale to all sections. The DC commented on the need for additional instructors across the whole field of activities. Any offers of help please direct them to the DC. ## **Swimming** The report was accepted, Dane thanked the swimming team for their continuing work with the section. 5 ## **Scout Shop** The report was accepted, Dane thanked everyone involved in the shop for the excellent work and reminded everyone that the income from the shop helps to sustain the district financially, without it the District Levy would increase. Please continue to use the shop. Ian commented on the work Andy Whalley had put into getting the shop back up and running after Covid. Thanks also to Rosemary Schofield and her team of guiders. The meeting approved the annual report. ## **5.0 Financial Report** The annual accounts for 2022 were circulated, A number of questions were asked by members which the treasurer answered. The report as approved by the meeting. ## **6.0 Election of District Secretary** - John Bennett was nominated and confirmed as District Secretary. ## **7.0 Election of District Treasurer** Richard Bennett was nominated and confirmed as District Treasurer. ## **8.0 Election of Members of the District Scout Council to the District Executive Committee.** Andy Evans and Jake Ellam were elected to the District Executive. Tom Austin, recently in post as the District Youth Commissioner was also approved as an 18 to 25 year old representative on the executive. ## **9.0 Approval of the District Commissioner’s nomination of Members of the District Scout Council to serve on the District Executive Committee.** Ian Potts nominated the following: Beavers: Mark Rowe Cubs: Helen Dorney Scouts: Lisa Gamble Explorers & Young Leaders: Diane Blurton ## **10.0 Election of two Members of the District Scout Council for nomination to the County Scout Council.** John Whittingham was willing to continue in this role, the meeting agreed to this. There were no other volunteers ## **11.0 World Scout Jamboree 25** Emily Taylor, Ellie Woodcock and Gareth Jones gave a presentation about the forthcoming WSJ due to be held in South Korea later in the year. The presentation 6 was very well received and Dane wished them ”Bon Voyage” and looked forward to hearing from them again in twelve months time ## **11.0 District Commissioner** - **11.1** While the effects of Covid were by no means forgotten in 2022, Scouting returned to something more familiar as the year progressed. There were plenty of challenges and lots to celebrate and be proud of in what was achieved. The numbers of young people involved in Scouting across the District has started to recover although overall we are still below the numbers in 2020. However, the number of adults involved has fallen, particularly in certain groups. Despite this we have continued to deliver high quality Scouting, as shown by the number of top awards achieved. From the Gang Show in the first half of the year to Christmas Events at the end our young people have had a wide range of opportunities and seeing the numbers involved in them it was clear that they took full advantage of them. As a District we continue to support groups by putting on events and activities where groups can get together and activities which require trained instructors to deliver. We are always looking for new instructors so we can offer those activities to as many young people as possible. As I said at the start there have also been challenges, in particular in terms of recruiting and retaining adult volunteers. We have been supporting several groups in a variety of ways including having sections meeting together and District Leaders attending meetings to support new leaders. I would like to thank all those who have assisted in keeping those groups going. We have made some good progress in getting on top of outstanding mandatory training although there is still work to do. There have been issues with District Headquarters which is in need of renovation and we are working with Reaseheath College to develop suitable plans to make best use of the space for the shop, as a meeting or training space and for storage. We have a lot of very dedicated volunteers in our District and a number of them reached some significant milestones in the last 12 months. Our District President, Peter Taylor, will be 99 years old in the next couple of weeks. He still takes an active interest in the District, regularly attending the District Lunches. I want to mention a special award that I had the privilege of presenting recently. For only the second time while I have been DC I presented one of our Cub Scouts, Edey Wells, with a Meritorious Conduct Award. It was awarded for her quick thinking in recalling the first aid she had learned in Cubs and saving her teachers life when she started choking in class. What makes it even more remarkable is that 7 Edey has a number of medical conditions, including Global Developmental Delay which means she had the learning age of a four year old at the time. If any volunteer doubts the value of what they are doing in Scouting this is just one example of that value. I would like to thank each and every adult who supports Scouting in South West Cheshire for all that they do. As we move into a new year there will be further challenges ahead. There is still a focus on mandatory training and we are embarking on a transformation which will see some changes to how we are structured in Groups and the District as well as changes to the volunteer journey and to learning. Whilst none of this change will alter what we deliver to young people, it will better reflect how we do things already and make it more straightforward to volunteer. Our challenges in Scouting are still minor compared to those being faced by many others at the moment and we should bear this in mind when assessing them. Instead we should focus on the successes we see each week, whether it is a nervous Beaver being left by a parent at a Beaver meeting for the first time or a Meritorious Conduct Award for a Cub Scout. It is why I will continue to work with you to ensure Scouting continues to be available for those already involved and to make it available to those who are not. Any of you who have been to one of our recent AGMs will know that I usually finish with a Baden Powell quote. When I read this years quote it made me think more positively about what we have achieved over the last few years despite the challenges we have been faced with and gave me renewed energy to do my best for Scouting in the coming year _._ Life would pall if it were all sugar; salt is bitter if taken by itself; but when tasted as part of the dish, it savours the meat. Difficulties are the salt of life. (In other words, without the challenges the successes wouldn’t feel as good). ## **12.0 The County Commissioner** - **12.1** Dave spoke about the recovery in Cheshire of scouting post pandemic. He used a slide presentation to highlight the areas which we are addressing to increase membership, community involvement and diversity - **12.2** He spoke about the Transformation Project and some of challenges we are all likely to face - **12.3** Dave talked about the Scouting events that were due to take place in the coming year. He congratulated the WSJ participants on the presentation they gave on the 8 forthcoming WSJ and looked forward, in 2024, to hearing about their exploits in South Korea. Dane closed the meeting at 21.25. John Bennett District Secretary, South West Cheshire Scouts. June 2023 9 ## **ANNUAL REPORT 2023** ## **DISTRICT SECRETARY’S REPORT** The District Executive met on four occasions in 2023, using the facilities at 35[th] SWC due to the ongoing accessibility issues at District HQ. The Executive is working on options for DHQ. one proposal being to convert upstairs to a store principally for Gang Show costumes. Downstairs would be redeveloped so that the shop could continue to function and there would be improved meeting facilities. This is work in progress. Submission of the annual census return was completed on time. The submission of the district accounts and annual report to the Charity Commission was also completed on schedule. The Executive was pleased to note the number of awards presented during 2023 in South West Cheshire. ## **MBE** John Bennett for Services to Young People in Cheshire. ## **Bar to the Award for Merit** Tim Owen ## **The Award for Merit`** Dan Baldwin Graham Proctor Simon Piasecki ## **Chief Scouts Commendation for Good Service** Abi Woodcock The following Scouting awards were awarded: ## **Long Service Awards** |50|years|Victor Ward| |---|---|---| |40|years|Wayne Davies| |30|years|Andrew Collett| |||Graham Shaw| |||Neil Tomlinson| |25|years|Mark Gidlow| |20|years|Duncan Batty| |||Ian Potts| |||Kevin Yates| |||Philip Edwards| |||David Brough| 10 99 Chief Scouts Bronze Awards - 47 Chief Scouts Silver Awards - 45 Chief Scouts Gold Awards - 10 Chief Scouts Platinum Awards - 2 Chief Scouts Diamond Award - 6 Young Leader Belt Buckles - 3 You Shape Scout Awards - 8 You Shape Explorer Awards - 5 Explorer Belts 11 ||**CENSUS**|**CENSUS**|**RETURN**|**COMPARISON**|**COMPARISON**|**COMPARISON**| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---| ||**2019**|**2020**|
**2021**|**2022**|**2023**|**2024**| |**Groups**|**23**|**23**|**22**|**22**|**22**|**21**| |**Beaver**|**390**|**385**|**255**|**313**|**336**|**343**| |**Cub**|**427**|**301**|**346**|**346**|**344**|**362**| |**Scout**|**413**|**422**|**371**|**344**|**363**|**333**| |**Explorer**|**116**|**138**|**120**|**122**|**123**|**134**| |**Network**|**105**|**102**|**90**|**25**|**10**|**6**| |**Adults**|**564**|**612**|**513**|**505**|**341**|**418**| |**Total**|**2111**|**2089**|
**1978**|**1578**|**1476**|**1596**| ***** The Explorer figure includes members of the Explorer Young Leader Unit ## **John Bennett District Secretary** 12 ## **DISTRICT APPOINTMENT TEAM’S REPORT** The Appointments Committee met on 6 occasions in 2023. The first one was held on Zoom, but the rest were face-to-face meetings. We approved 25 new Scouting roles, 3 changes of role and 4 existing Leaders took on additional roles. The hardest part of the whole process is chasing for references! We are constantly asked when new leaders will be interviewed, and the answer is usually “when we have received their references”. And frequently we are interviewing Leaders who have been doing the job for months if not years! Thanks to all Committee members for their continuing support and contribution to this role. It is a privilege to meet with new prospective Leaders, find out a little about them, and ensure they know what they have let themselves in for! The process of approving roles is due to change with the Transformation, and the Appointments Committee as we know it will cease to exist. The aim is to speed up the Appointments process and to make it less intimidating for the candidates. But until this takes place we will continue to meet and interview new Leaders. ## **Jen Wilkinson** ## **Appointments sub-committee chair** ## **Cathie Wainwright Appointments Secretary** ## **BEAVER SCOUT SECTION REPORT** “Every child has a right to have an adventure. Life is about grabbing opportunities.” – Bear Grylls, Chief Scout. 2023 saw our young people continue to conquer challenges, grow and develop traits of bravery, resilience and teamwork. However, none of this could have been achieved without the dedication of their sectional leadership team, parents and helpers, so we would like to start by thanking them for all they have done over these past 12 months and the commitments they make each week to support the development of our young people. ## **Bronze Awards** This year, 52 young people achieved their Chief Scout Bronze Award, from 10 different groups. After the success of our ceremony last year, we decided to return to Milldale where we celebrated their achievements. The event was attended by over 50 parents, children and leaders and was a lovely evening for all in attendance. 13 We would also like to say a huge congratulations to all those Beaver scouts who have achieved their Chief Scouts Bronze awards within the past 12 months. We are looking forward to celebrating this outstanding achievement with you all soon. ## **Beaver Challenge** Beavers joined forces again this year and, in teams of up to 6, completed a variety of different activities set by their leaders. By completing these challenges, the Beavers scored points – all trying to be crowned the Beaver Challenge Champions of South West Cheshire! Activities included a ping-pong challenge, identifying fruit/veg and trying to work out what the names of the different Beaver Badges were. It was very close this year, and the teamwork shown was phenomenal, but in the end, the 23rd Beaver Colony were crowned our winners and represented the district at the County Beaver Challenge. However, not only were the 23rd our District winners, but their dedication, hard work and teamwork paid off as they also won the County Beaver Challenge too! We are incredibly proud of you all – well done! ## **Christmas Trip** This year we decided to take a different trip with the Beavers and visited Chester Zoo for their Lantern spectacular. With almost 100 Beavers and Leaders descending upon Chester Zoo, they experienced a magical evening and were mesmerized from start to finish. It was thoroughly enjoyed by those in attendance and the awe and excitement coming from the Beavers was amazing to see. We would like to thank all the leaders who gave up their time to bring their colony and provide them opportunity to take part in this fantastic event. Once again, we would like to thank the Beavers, Parents, Leaders, Young Leaders and other helpers in enabling scouting this year. 2023 has been another successful year for Beaver Scouts in South West Cheshire Scout District and it could not have been achieved without your support. We look forwards to another 12 months of Beaver Scouts in South West Cheshire District, and all the fun events it brings. ## **Stephanie Fearn Liam Potts ADC Beavers** 14 ## **CUB SCOUT SECTION REPORT** What a great year the Cubs had in 2023, which was filled with groups being very active and being out and about, Camping, Climbing, Sailing to name a few; thanks must go to all the leaders and those that support these activities. ## **Chief Scout’s Silver Award evening,** In 2023, there were 60 Silver awards certificates presented at a special event held at St Thomas More High School. We had Cubs from 1st, 3rd, 7th, 12, 14th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 23rd, 26th, 28th, 35th R, 35thS, 38th,39th, 40th and 41st. With 8 awards up on 2022, this a fantastic achievement. We would like to say well done to all the Cubs and their Leaders for all the hard work that has gone into achieving this, the highest award for Cubs, it was great to see that the Cubs continued to complete badge work at home. ## **District Craft Competition** It was a pleasure to hold the district craft competition, this year Wilson House were kind enough to host the event. It is amazing to see how creative the Cubs are when they work as a team to create a model. This year it was how they wanted the new town centre to look. We had 9 teams take part, and to select a winner was not easy and the 16th won. ## **District Camp** 238 Cubs joined Beavers, Scouts and Explorers for our first District camp in 6 years. During the weekend they took part in lots of different activities including archery, shooting, climbing, pond dipping and many more. This was an experience that will be remembered by all for a long time. Thanks to everyone involved that made this an amazing event ## **County visit to Chester Zoo** 53 Cubs and leaders attended the County organised visit to Cheshire Zoo. Packs had a lot of fun seeing all the animals and meeting Cubs form around the district. ## **Sports & Tough Mudder** On September 30th we held a Sports day; during the morning the Cubs took part in a range of sports including Running, Throwing the Cricket ball, Jumping, Bean bag races and a few more which allowed them to gain their Athletes badge. This was followed by our Tug of War competition. In the Afternoon we had a Tough Mudder race that involved teams going over the assault course, under the water poles and slide down into the stream, run through the stream and then around the field. All the Cubs were very wet and muddy but had a great time. Thanks again to the Campsite team for their great support and work in making this event memorable for all. ## **Christmas Party on Saturday 9th December,** 15 The Cubs held their Christmas celebration on 9th December with over 100 Cubs attending the event at the campsite. All had great fun with Camp Fire Songs, Wide Game, Circus Skills, Craft and Hot Chocolate and a visit from Santa who fitted us into his very busy schedule. Cubs all went home with a gift from him. Thanks again to all leaders that supported the event and made it a great success. I would like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank-you to all Leaders, Young Leaders and helpers for all the time and effort that went into 2023. I know 2024 is going to be a great year with lots of great activities going ahead; the District Cub team is certainly planning to make this another brilliant year. A Tough Mudder in June, a County fun day In July, District camp, including Sports in September and then our Christmas party in December. ## **Neil Tomlinson ADC Cubs** ## **SCOUT SECTION REPORT** The 19 active Scout Troops in the South West District continue to deliver a diverse and challenging Scout programme despite still dealing with the longer-term effects of covid on Leader numbers. The Scout programme covers the 9 Challenge Badges as a minimum and I am proud to say that 34 Scouts were presented with their Chief Scouts Gold Award at the County Celebrating Success event in November. In addition 3 Scouts achieved their You Shape Award. Many Troops across the District held Summer camps and a few also held Winter camps with the Scouts enjoying the outdoors experience and learning #skillsforlife. Scouts from across the District attended the District Camp in May last year, enjoying a wide range of activities along with the Beavers, Cubs and Explorers. ## **Ian Potts** ## **District Commissioner** 16 ## **DISTRICT EXPLORER REPORT** ## **Meetings:** All 4 units hold regular weekly meeting in their respective partnership venues and are very well attended. With 3 different nights available to Explorers, units are finding that a number of Explorers are taking the opportunity to attend more than one meeting night. Explorers are encouraged to take part and integrate within the SWC Explorer areas, with positive vibes being received. ## Awards: Explorers were well represented at Parr Hall Awards Celebrations in 2023, with many achieving Platinum, Diamond and YL Buckle. Fiennes: 2 Platinum Awards Shipton: 4 Platinum Awards 1 Diamond Award 5 Young Leaders Explorer Buckle 1 DofE Bronze 1 DofE Silver ## **Units:** Drake: Drake now has three new wonderful Leaders and are gaining in strength and numbers. They now have 19 members all fully participating in a varied and engaging programme. In 2023, they attended both District Camp and Summer Camp with the 35th SWC. A number of unit members took part in both the Liverpool Treasure Hunt, organised by DESC and the Manchester Monopoly Run in Manchester. Capitation was high for 2024 (£847.50) and has depleted their funds accordingly but the new leadership team have got on top of the subs issue and started fund raising to increase their working capital. ## **Fiennes:** As with all sections in Scouting, Fiennes do suffer from Explorer Leadership issues and rely on Scout Leaders from Wilson House to support their weekly meeting. At present Fiennes have 16 members. In 2023, they attended District Camp, and a number of unit members took part in both the Liverpool Treasure Hunt, organised by DESC and the Manchester Monopoly Run in Manchester. Fiennes have been particularly affected by the increase in Capitation for 2024 (£904.00) and have used a substantial amount from their working capital. Fiennes finances have been significantly affected by the number of non paying members, who though being chased, are still failing to pay subs. ## **Mallory:** Mallory like all the units are rather short on leaders, only having two, both of whom are unable to commit to being available each week due to work commitments. Mallory is running a varied explorer lead programme which is engaging and fun. In 2023, they 17 attended District Camp. A number of unit members took part in both the Liverpool Treasure Hunt, organised by DESC and the Manchester Monopoly Run in Manchester . ## **Shipton:** Shipton has the largest Explorer membership in the District and continue to grow and develop. They run a wide and varied programme and work with the local community in Sandbach, having helped out on many local charity events over the past year. Shipton had a number of different camps from Scotland, Gladstonbury (Hawarden), District Camp and winter camping. Shipton are 40 members strong and so incurred the highest proportion of capitation (£1695.00). They have a strong and forward thinking leadership team that encourage the personal development of the young people in their care. ## **Capitation:** Capitation has taken a toll on all units in 2024, (£4802.50) over half of their membership funds having to be used to pay their Capitation fees. An increase in subs from £104.00 to £140.00 and more focus on non paying members will, hopefully alleviate this situation in 2025. ## **Network:** The lack of a Network Commissioner has hampered our recruitment in this area. With no Network Commissioner, we are losing many Explorers/YL’s at 18. If we are to retain Explorers/YL’s, then a Network Commissioner needs urgently appointing. ## **Ingrid Shaw District Explorer Scout Commissioner Cathie Wainwright District Explorer Scout Administrator** ## **YOUNG LEADER EXPLORER SCOUTS** It has been a very productive year for the Young Leaders in South West Cheshire. Young Leaders are a great asset to any group. They are very supportive in running the weekly programme and can take a lot of pressure of the leaders. We have been very proactive within the district with the Young Leaders and have awarded 6 Young Leader Belt Buckles. This is an amazing achievement and gives me great pleasure to award these Young Leader Belt Buckles as I know how much had work the Young Leaders have put into completing this. All Young leader modules can be accessed via face to face or via the Cheshire Scouts Website https://www.cheshirescouts.org.uk/youth-programme/young-leaders-14-17/yltraining 18 All Young leaders are encouraged to complete their training and obtain the Young Leader Belt buckle but also the only requirement is for them to complete Module A and attend their section meetings and help out as a leader. We have found that a Young Leader in a section brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the section and I know a lot of leaders who have Young leaders in their sections wouldn’t do without them Many thanks to all the Leaders of the District who have supported these Young Leaders throughout their journey. I look forward to presenting many more Young Leader Belt Buckles in the near future. ## **Diane Blurton and Gaynor Bracey** ## **DISTRICT YOUTH FORUM** ## **Update on progress in the last year:** - Over the last year we have held 3 district youth forums. With each, the numbers have increased and return rate have been very good, they have gone from strength to strength. - Explorer numbers were initially low at the forums, but this has since changed as several Scouts have moved up sections and more explorers coming in. Only 6 Scout troops are currently represented so it would be great to get this number doubled. - The first forum looked at district camp feedback, the second was held at Milldale, with activities in the afternoon after the forum in the morning. The third focussed on planning for a district youth led event within the next year. - County youth forums have also restarted with a new county youth lead in place, the district have attended both, with x2 14-18 year old reps also in attendance. - As well as the forums, I have also attended 3 Team Cheshire meetings, including the strategy weekend. - It was also really pleasing to see a number of the youth forum presented with their YouShape awards at the County Celebrating Success in event back in November. Hopefully this continues. ## **Issues/concerns:** - Adult support for youth forums is vital. The last forum was run purely on the minimum number of adults required. If you are willing to help out, please let me know, youth forums will roughly be 3/4 times a year. 19 - Recruiting on 18-24 year old reps for the county youth forum. This will also be equally concerning in 12 months time when looking for a new youth lead if there is no interest from the age group which would be applying for the role. ## **Plans for the next year:** - Next District youth forum is planned for 11th May & next County youth forum is 17-18th July. - Youth forum event - Red vs Blue (vs Green) District Scout & Explorer Competition. - Youth Shaped Support Event – I want to run a support morning across the district for ADC’s, GSL’s & SL’s initially to help everyone understand what youth shaped Scouting actually is, and how to support running it within their own groups. This would be a pilot to then hopefully go county wide, showing South West really taking the lead with it. ## **Tom Austin** ## **District Youth Commissioner** @SWC_DYC dyc@swcscouts.org.uk ## **SCOUT NETWORK REPORT** A new District Scout Network Commissioner was not found in 2023 and as a result there were no Network events. The restructuring of support for the 14 – 25 age group should see support for this section increased. ## **Ian Potts** ## **District Commissioner** ## **ACTIVITIES REPORT** Our District activities have built on the successes of previous years. The water remains as popular as ever, so the Swimming Club Is proving Its worth In teaching this vital life skill as well as preparing our youngsters for other activities. The Club has been well attended with a waiting list - thanks to Bob Binner for organising it, as well as to all the other Instructors. **KAYAKING** got underway again In April with sessions for Permit holders and other more experienced Scouts from 2022, followed by a Taster week-end In May when nearly 60 Scouts & Explorers were able to have a go - a new experience for many. . 20 Three Paddlesport Badge training courses took place In June and July, all fully subscribed, with many Scouts attending multiple sessions to enhance their skills and gain further badges. Our September training session included a trip on the River Weaver, where all acquitted themselves well, despite a strong head-wind that made conditions quite challenging. **OPEN CANOEING** has been rather dormant for the past few years, but we managed to run a training session for Kayak Permit holders in October, and hope that we'll gain more permits in 2024 to allow more use of our canoe fleet (which are also Ideal for Cub taster sessions). **SAILING** - unfortunately our first Taster day In July had to be cancelled at short notice due to a forecast of strong winds and thunderstorms. Even more regrettably the already busy programme at Winsford Flash Sailing Club meant that we were unable to arrange a replacement, so many missed out. However at least some amends were made on the 2nd day In September which coincided with a hot spell and saw around 110 of our young people (plus a few more leaders and helpers) out on Winsford Flash. Conditions were ideal, apart from a shortage of wind at times. **CLIMBING** -The Milldale team continue to run frequent popular taster sessions - which we supplemented with 3 CLIMBING BADGE courses. leading to the awarding of over 35 Scout badges, The courses also cover most of the Explorer badge, and around 6 awards were completed after an additional visit to North West Face In Warrington to complete the higher & tougher walls there. **HILL WALKING** - unfortunately It proved Impossible to find any suitable dates to offer full District days out on the hills, however a couple of Troops have managed to get Scouts out walking - particularly the 14th SWC who completed a Terrain 1 route over Stanage Edge & High Neb In the Peak District and the 3rd SWC who tackled a couple of Terrain 1 routes In Cumbria. We still desperately need more leaders to gain Activity Permits to satisfy demand for adventures in hills and mountains. I am always happy to offer help or advice for any Group or Section wishing to run their own activities - but regrettably few take It up (the notable exception being the 14th where I was able to provide Permit cover for their Terrain 1 walk) My thanks, as always, goes to all our Permit holder and others who support activities on both land and water. We continue to be reliant on the leadership skills of our Young 21 Leaders, particularly for kayaking and climbing. Several have gained their own Permits and watching a teenager competently instruct a group of Scouts In a complex adventurous activity is particularly rewarding. ## **Rob Galloway** ## **ADC (Activities)** ## **MILLDALE CAMPSITE REPORT** Milldale continues to be popular for daytime and evening visits from within the district. Although the number of campers is still low compared to previous years, we have seen a notable increase in out-of-district groups using the site for camping. We continue to be financially sound, maintaining a positive cash flow throughout the year and generating sufficient income to reinvest in the site. Outstanding invoices from our district have reduced significantly compared to the previous year; the new booking system is working well for us and helping keep the invoicing up to date; groups with overdue invoices are now put on stop until they settle up. All our activities continue to be popular. We ran our second mini-mudder for the cubs, with plans to open it up to scouts this year. We ran several instructor courses throughout the year for Archary, Shooting and Crossbow (extremely popular with outof-district leaders). We are really struggling for activity leaders, which could result in fewer evening activity sessions being run this year; depending on availability, we may have to stop evening sessions in favour of activity days, where groups can book a session but on a specific day. A number of volunteers continue to support the site during the weekends and weekdays working on a variety of projects from widening paths through the woods for wheelchair access, pruning trees, mowing grass and refurbishing the campfire circle there are always jobs to do suiting anyone’s skill level. Looking forward, we have an extensive work schedule for 2024 including emergency bridge repairs and a new shelter with equipment that will make it easier for scout leaders to camp. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the campsite team and all the helpers for all their hard work over the past year. If you would like to get involved at the campsite, then please ask myself or a member of the campsite committee for more information. We always have the kettle on and biscuits available. **Carl Shore. Milldale Campsite Chairman.** 22 ## **SHOOTING** A hectic and very successful year for the district shooting team. The overall activity was somewhat lower than in 2022 in terms of the number of events. However, participation was up by 10% with almost 1,500 people taking part in some form of activity. Shooting has been run each month at Milldale with 35 different activities taking place. Most months we have managed to run 2 district session, open to all over 10 years old as well as 4 taster sessions for various groups both within SWC and from other districts. Rifle Shooting at the District camp in April proved to hugely popular, with 650 people having a go (many had more than one go) and 13,000 pellets being shot. We have held 7 training courses in order to train leaders to be able to run shooting and crossbow for scouts. The Waterloo Shooting competition & camp in June (9-11) proved to be very popular and saw 316 people take part across the weekend. Preliminary expressions of interest for 2024 shows a similar level of interest. Support for competitions continued with the group supporting the running of the national Intercounty competition at Aldersley in May. At the competition itself 10 of the squad representing Cheshire were from the district, with Cheshire winning overall combined team gold, as well as individual medals. Scout Shoot in September at Bisley (Surrey) bought more success with 9 from SWC attending. Team overall gold was won by the SWC team, with a further 10 medals of various colours. The Scout National Championships in October had the team support the attendance of 60 scouts and leaders from across Cheshire. The district teams wining both the gold and silver medals in the Senior Connaught and retaining the trophy. The team and individuals from SWC won a further; 5 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze medals. The year’s competitions ended with the SWC team winning the Cheshire Inter District Competition. So, for the second year running that’s the best teams at District, County and National levels. We received a note of thanks from one of our former scouts Joe Baker who after representing GB at the ISSF World Championships, thanked the district team for all their support & help in getting him started in the sport. Similarly, to the comment in last year’s report it would be great to see more support from the district groups at the Saturday sessions & most of the competitors for Waterloo are from outside of the district. 23 The resource pool of instructors and helpers is limited, and they are overstretched. Hence, we are now needing to look at adapting the program to a more workable format, which will sadly have an impact on the levels of activity and overall success. **We are also, as always, short of adult help, so if anyone wants to dip their toe in the water and help, please let us know.** ## **Aaron Baxter District Shooting Team** 24 ## **GANG SHOW** As you read this we are less than three weeks away from what, if rehearsals are anything to go by, will be another outstanding show. So if you haven’t already done so please, please buy your tickets from the Lyceum Box Office £15 per head all areas. Book Crewe Gang Show 2024 tickets | Lyceum Theatre Crewe (trafalgartickets.com) ## **John Bennett Secretary Crewe Gang Show** ## **SCOUT & GUIDE SHOP REPORT** The Scout and Guide Shop continues to contribute significantly to District funds, although 2023 was a difficult year with costs rising. Turnover was slightly down on 2022 with all categories of sales falling. Sales of uniform and badges again contributed almost 90% of sales. In December a new card reader was purchased as the one supplied by the Guides has been withdrawn. The continued hard work of the shop team has ensured that the shop remains open for as much of the year as possible but without groups supporting it by buying badges and encouraging parents to buy uniform it will continue to contribute less to the District financially and the District Levy may have to rise. The small but dedicated team of Scouting and Guiding volunteers would welcome anyone who would like to join the team. ## **Ian Potts** ## **District Commissioner** 25 ## **South West Cheshire District Scout Council Receipts and Payments Account** |**Receipts and Payments**|**Account**|| |---|---|---| |**For the year from**|**01/01/2023**|**31/12/2023**| |||| |**Receipts and payments**||| |**Receipts**|**2023**
**£66,615**
**£53,280**
**£13,335**
**£8,000**
**£21,335**
**£1,256**
**£1,978**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**£2,193**
**£419**
**£5,846**
**£17,257**
**£347**
**£17,604**
**-**
**-**
**£2,500**
**-**
**£142**
**£207**
**-**
**£2,000**
**-**
**£4,848**
**£47**
**£47**
**£49,680**
**-**
**£49,680**|**2022**| |**Donations, legacies and similar income**||| |Membershipsubscriptions|**£66,615**|**£59,617**| |Less: Membershipsubscriptionspaid on(National / County)|**£53,280**|**£48,289**| |Net membershipsubscriptions retained|**£13,335**|**£11,328**| |Scout Shop|**£8,000**|**£8,000**| |**Sub total**|**£21,335**|**£19,328**| |**Activities**||| |Beavers|**£1,256**|**-**| |Cubs|**£1,978**|**£639**| |Scouts|**-**|**-**| |Explorers|**-**|**-**| |Leaders|**-**|**-**| |SwimmingClub|**£2,193**|**£1,276**| |District events,activities,trainingand camps|**£419**|**£156**| |**Sub total**|**£5,846**|**£2,071**| |**Fundraising (gross)**||| |World ScoutingJamboree|**£17,257**|**£12,204**| |Other fundraisingactivities|**£347**|**-**| |**Sub total**|**£17,604**|**£12,204**| |**Other receipts**||| |Emptying9thSWC bank account|**-**|**£2,451**| |3rdSWC share of District store insurance|**-**|**£209**| |GangShow|**£2,500**|**-**| |Donations|**-**|**£300**| |insurance refund|**£142**|**-**| |closingcharitydeposit account|**£207**|**-**| |Electricity (DHQ)refund|**-**|**£532**| |loan repayment from 17thSWC|**£2,000**|**-**| |Shipton reimbursingDistrict forpayment|**-**|**£360**| |**Sub total**|**£4,848**|**£3,851**| |**Investment income**||| |Bank interest|**£47**|**£8**| |**Sub total**|**£47**|**£8**| |**_Total Gross Income_**
**Asset and investment sales, etc.**
**_Total receipts_**||| |||**£37,462**| |||| |||**-**| |||| ||**£49,680**|**£37,462**| ## **Receipts and payments** |**Receipts and payments**||| |---|---|---| |**Payments**|**2023**
**£2,909**
**£1,721**
**-**
**-**
**£218**
**-**
**-**
**£243**
**£2,792**
**£7,882**
**£277**
**£404**
**£8,168**
**£330**
**£269**
**£103**
**£516**
**£878**
**£20**
**£174**
**£543**
**£44**
**£11,726**
**-**
**-**
**£2,500**
**£382**
**-**
**-**
**£207**
**-**
**£3,089**
**-**
**£17,240**
**£17,240**
**£39,937**
**£39,937**
**£9,743**
**£80,435**
**£90,178**|**2022**| |**Activities**||| |Beavers|**£2,909**|**£615**| |Cubs|**£1,721**|**£678**| |Scouts|**-**|**-**| |Explorers|**-**|**£211**| |Youngleaders|**£218**|**£8**| |Leaders|**-**|**-**| |Districtyouth forum|**-**|**-**| |District events,activities,trainingand camps|**£243**|**£1,330**| |SwimmingClub|**£2,792**|**-**| |**Sub total**|**£7,882**|**£2,842**| |**District running costs**||| |Water and Sewerage|**£277**|**£360**| |Electricityand Gas|**£404**|**£683**| |Insurance|**£8,168**|**£8,112**| |Accountancy|**£330**|**£300**| |Bank charges|**£269**|**£268**| |Repairs and Renewals|**£103**|**-**| |AGM and trustee expenses|**£516**|**£1,055**| |MPLC(film licence)|**£878**|**£798**| |Lotterylicence|**£20**|**£20**| |MiFi|**£174**|**£148**| |Branding|**£543**|**-**| |First Aid|**£44**|**£206**| |**Sub total**|**£11,726**|**£11,950**| |**Exceptional expenses**||| |Donation to Guides|**-**|**£1,000**| |Donations|**-**|**£450**| |GangShow|**£2,500**|**£215**| |Payment on behalf of 14thSWC|**£382**|**-**| |Explorer Belt|**-**|**£1,063**| |Payingbill for Shipton|**-**|**£360**| |closingcharitydeposit account|**£207**|**-**| |Loan to 17thSWC|**-**|**£12,000**| |**Sub total**|**£3,089**|**£15,088**| |**Fundraising expenses**||| |Eurojam(includingrefunds)|**-**|**£1,707**| |World ScoutingJamboree instalments|**£17,240**|**£23,263**| |**Sub total**|**£17,240**|**£24,970**| |**_Total Gross Expenditure_**
**_Total payments_**
**_Net of receipts/(payments)_**
**Cash funds last year end**
**_Cash funds this year end_**||| |||**£54,850**| |||| |||**£54,850**| |||| ||**£9,743**|**-£17,388**| ||**£80,435**|**£97,823**| ||**£90,178**|**£80,435**| ## **Activity Accounts** |**Section**|**Receipts**|**Payments**|**Opening**
**balance**|**Opening**
**Closing**
**balance**| |---|---|---|---|---| |Milldale|£58,407|£43,639|£48,392|£63,160| |Canoe and Kayak|£1,997|£2,205|£4,358|£4,150| |Sailing|£1,730|£1,290|£4,841|£5,281| |Climbing & Hillwalking|£669|£551|£166|£284| |Shooting|£30,189|£24,956|£1,443|£6,676| |Scout Shop|£28,071|£39,839|£23,281|£11,514| |Explorers|£14,522|£19,484|£15,131|£10,168| |Gang Show|£7,549|£3,903|£4,343|£7,990| ## **Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the year** ||**£**| |---|---| |**Cash funds**|| |RBS current account|**£42,960**| |NS&I investment account|**£47,218**| |The Scout Association Charity Deposit Account (closed)|**-**| |**Total cash funds**|**£90,178**| |**Non monetary assets for charity's own use (insured values)**|| |Land and buildings|**£523,828**| |Motor vehicles|**£25,950**| |Scouting equipment, furniture etc|**£146,440**| |Marine|**£50,810**| |**Sub total**|**£747,028**| |**Liabilities**|| |Accounts not yet paid|**-**| |**Sub total**|**£0**| **The above receipts and payments account and statement of assets and liabilities were approved by the Trustees on 4th March 2024 and signed on their behalf by** |Signature||Print Name|| |---|---|---|---| |||Richard Chaplow|Chair| |||Richard Bennett|Treasurer| (HARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent examiner's report on the accounts Section A Independent Examiner's Report Report to the trustee31 members of C,'hd,'I;y Ndine sovr14 k•£sr CH6SHIrf6 OiJfNI cf SLOU r On accounts for the year ended ZOLJ Charity no (If any) Set out on pages Irem8mbèr to In¢liJdo the p8ge niimbers of additional 8heelsi I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity ("the Trust.) for the year ended DD I MM I YYYY. Responslbllltles and basis of report As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ( the Act"). I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act. Independent trhe charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 and l am qualified to examiner's ststsment undertake the examination by being a qualified member of [insert name of applicable listed body]l. Delete [ ] if not applicable. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination (other than that disclosed below ') which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect: the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; or the accounts did not accord with the accounting records. or the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair, view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Please de18te the words in the brackets if they do not apply. Signed: Date.. 10 Sef r t•'L Y Name: DArfI Q IFIYLO Relevant professional qualification{s) or body IER Oct 2018 (if any): Address: lfvl SfpLffjfFr c14QSllIrtrf Ctsjéo qAI Section B Disclosure Only complete if the examiner needs to highlight material matters of concern (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts.. directions and guidance for examiners). Give here brief details of any items that the examiner wishes to disclose. hJoMI IER Oct 2018