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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Friday 5 July 2024 @ 7.30 PM BARNSWOOD CAMPSITE AGENDA

Introduction & Welcome
Apologies for absence

3. Governance topics :

a) Approve the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 16 June 2023
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 AGMs)

4. Review of the previous year :

a) The District Lead Volunteer’s review of Scouts in the Macclesfield and Congleton District
b) Receive and consider the Annual Report of the District Trustee Board, including the annual Statement of 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 recommendation from the open selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board
d) (Re)appoint District President (if required)
e) Appoint Independent Examiner/Auditor
f) Nominate representatives of the District Scout Council to represent the District on the County Scout Council.

6. Closing Remarks

MACCELSFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Contents	Page
Foreword	5
2023 AGM Minutes	6
Constitution	10
Finance Report	22
County Report	38
District Chair’s Report	40
District Lead Volunteer Report	41
Campsite Report	44
District 4-14 Reports	45
District 14-24 Report	47
District Programme Support Report	50
District People Report	51
District Resources Report	54

FOREWORD

I continue to be proud of the breadth, variety and standard of Scouting across the whole district as evidenced throughout the past year. Some very significant work has gone on in the background at district level. This includes;

Developing a vision and strategic principles for the district and its key teams
which now drives decisions.
Creating a District Risk Register
which shows we are generally in a good place.
Morphing the District Executive into a Board of Trustees thus
clarifying the role as governance
making it easier to bring in appropriate individuals from outside Scouting

The district chairman and team lead are to be congratulated on driving these through.

During 2023 Macclesfield & Congleton District visibly

Opened two squirrel dreys (squirrels are for 4-6 yo).
Grew in numbers of young people
Maintained high safety standards of assets and in activities.
Maintained a very high level (>90%) of leaders trained in first aid, safety and safeguarding.

Lost our excellent treasurer, David Jones, who tendered his resignation to make way for younger blood.

If you read the reports, you will find more information about
What the young people have got up to.
The excellent state of our infrastructure (finance, assets, and management teams)
How the major assets (Barnswood and HQ) are used, maintained and developed.

My one disappointment has to be the lack of new volunteers to front line roles, which is preventing young people from joining as required ratios cannot be met. It is only thanks to the tremendous efforts and enthusiasm of our existing leaders that we can provide so much fun, friendship and enjoyment for our Scouts as they learn Skills for Life. Come and join our family. The start point can be found at https://www.mcscouts.org.uk/volunteering-with-us .

I would also like to thank Fiona Bruce MP for her support for Scouting during her tenure as our Vice President.

Mark Eden

District President

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL, CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ. THE SCOUT ASSOCIATION Patron: HM The Queen. President: HRH The Duke of Kent. Founder: Robert BadenPowell OM. Chief Scout: Lt Cdr (Hon) Bear Grylls RN Registered Charity Numbers 306101 (England and Wales) and SC038437 (Scotland) Incorporated by Royal Charter.

2023 AGM MINUTES

MACCLESFIELD & CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUTS COUNCIL

MINTUES OF THE DISTRICT AGM HELD ON Friday 16 June 2023 @ Barnswood Campsite

The Chair, Alex Fetcher, welcomed everyone to the meeting.

There were approximately 38 people in attendance.

Alex Fletcher provided a few housekeeping rules asking for someone to nominate and second members of the Board of Trustees.

Apologies:

Apologies were received from Christine Scott, Barry Bridge, Heather Newton, Jill Scarlett, Travor Mackay, Richard Hodges, Ross Massie, Andrew Brown, Dane Valley Scouts Leaders, Julian Amey, Ian Carter.

Annual Report: Mark Eden provided a summary of the highlights in the annual report including the new Squirrel sections, HQ initiative, and our focus on team working. He stressed how we successfully overcame the challenges of restarting activities post covid despite shortage of leaders and it is clear that young people have been having a great time learning new skills. It was also highlighted that the finances for District and Barnswood have been well managed.

Approval of 2022 Minutes:

David Jones nominated the approval of the minutes and this was seconded by Neil Raval.

The minutes from the 2022 AGM were approved.

Approval of District Constitution: Alex Fletcher explained that as part of the new transformation, all groups and districts should now move to a Board of Trustees and stated that Macclesfield and Congleton District will adopt the Scout’s District Constitution as per section 5.6 in POR.

Adoption of the District Constitution was nominated by Tim Hope and seconded by Mark Eden.

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The District Constitution was adopted.

Chairman’s Address:

Alex Fletcher reflected on the District’s achievements from the perspective of looking from outside into the District.

We have a really good safety record, ensuring that we note, investigate and put in place mitigating actions to stop recurrence of any issues. Our finances are in a healthy position as a district and this gives us space to give back into the district. Alex Fletcher thanked David Jones for his contributions in his role as Treasurer.

We have been able to manage our District assets really well, including Barnswood. Alex thanked Mark and the team for their hard work. Another District asset is HQ, which is used not only by the scout district but also by the wider community.

It is clear that a lot of young people have great experiences, are being challenged, achieving at all levels and learning new skills. This makes him incredibly proud of the achievements of the District.

Alex also thanked Mike Brown for his hard work and the great work he is doing for the District during his first year has District Lead Volunteer.

Treasurer’s Report:

David Jones presented the treasurers report.

There were no questions raised relating to the accounts.

Election of Officers:

David Jones’s role as Treasurer was nominated by Diana Stafford and seconded by Martin Taylor.

Caroline Robinson’s role as District Secretary was nominated by Mark Eden and seconded by Emily Parrish.

Alex thanked David for another successful year financially and thanked Caroline Robinson for keeping the Chair organised.

Election of District Board of Trustees:

Ian Mackintosh was nominated by Neil Raval and seconded by Steve Blackburn Steve Richmond as Programme Support Lead was nominated by Tim Hope and seconded by Angela Raval.

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Approval of Independent Examiner

Alex Fletcher nominated Jack Paton, Chartered Accountant to work as our independent examiner. This was seconded by Mike Brown.

DLV’s address:

Mike Brown stated that our biggest asset is the people, both young people and adults. District needs to ensure that everyone feels supported during the upcoming transformation through training and welcoming new people, making it easier to volunteer.

Everyone in the District have a responsibility to make sure that everything we do is safe and that our people and young people are safeguarded properly.

Mike thanked Alex for making the arrangements for the AGM and the food provided.

DLV nominations for member to the District Executive Committee:

Mike Brown nominated Alex Fletcher as Chair. This was seconded by Rebecca Dean and James Bennett.

Election of a Scouter from a Group to represent the District at the County Scout Council:

Alex asked for volunteers to represent the district at the County Scout Council.

There were no volunteers at the meeting but it was agreed that we will reach out to the District for a volunteer.

County Commissioner Update

Graham Procter, Deputy County Commissioner for Programme, joined the meeting and highlighted that it was great to be here in person. With the pandemic meetings like this have not been able to happen for a few years now.

He reflected on the highlights over the County and District in the past year, with 457 more young people joining Scouts. The number of front line leaders has grown by 3% across Cheshire and within Macclesfield and Congleton District, our membership has grown by 5% overall.

Trust is really important and the Board of Trustees are trusted to manage the District. Young people trust the adult leaders to deliver great activities and meetings.

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He stressed that the upcoming change is not completely altering the movement but trust in the process is important. The aim is to transform the culture within which we work and to make volunteering easier and fulfilling.

The national message is inclusive growth, making sure that people from all backgrounds feel comfortable to join the movement.

He highlighted that the Cheshire scouts website is constantly being updated and looking at organising county events to make sure that all groups get involved.

Graham paid tribute to Mike Brown who is a well-respected DLV across the district and through the work he is doing at county.

Awards:

Graham Proctor presented Mike Brown with his 30 year length of service award.

AOB:

There were no questions raised

Alex thanked everyone for attending and brought the meeting to a close

Signed by: ………………………………………………………………

Date: ……………………………………………………………………….

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CONSTITUTION 2024

Preamble

This constitution describes the role, membership and operation of the Scout Council, and the Trustee Board.

In the interest of openness, especially for new members of the Scout Council, the Scout Council should re-adopt their constitution at each Annual General Meeting.

The District Scout Council and the District Trustee Board

The District Scout Council has a governance role for the District Scout charity and, in particular, makes District Trustee Board appointments other than ex officio and co-opted appointments (see Rule 5.5.4.2).

The District Trustee Board is responsible for the governance of the charity. Although the District Trustee Board is responsible for the charity, it is accountable to the District Scout Council. The District Scout Council has no Trustee responsibilities.

The District Scout Council has no Trustee responsibilities.

5.5.4. The District Scout Council - membership

5.5.4.1 Membership of the District Scout Council does not provide any membership status of the Scouts.

5.5.4.2 District Scout Council membership

a) The ex officio members of the District Scout Council are members by virtue of their role in The Scouts:

all adult members with a role in the District - see District roles in the Chapter 16 Roles Table of The Scout Association’s Policy, Organisation and Rules
all Group Scout Leaders and Deputy Group Scout Leaders from the District
• all Group Trustee Board Chairs from the District
all Group Trustee Board Treasurers from the District
all Section Leaders, Assistant Section Leaders from the District

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all Group Active Support Managers from the District
all Explorers (including Young Leaders) in the District
all members of the Scout Network in the District
all parents and carers of all Explorers (including Young Leaders)
a representative of the District Troop Leadership Forum, selected from amongst the membership of the Forum
the County Commissioner
the County Chair

b) The appointed members of the District Scout Council are other supporters of the District appointed by the District Scout Council on the recommendation of the District Commissioner and the District Trustee Board. The number of appointed members must not exceed the actual number of ex officio members (see also (e) below). A District Scout Council does not need to have any appointed members.

c) The community members of the District Scout Council are representatives of the local community appointed because of their role rather than by name. For example local headteachers, or Parish Council members. They are appointed by the District Scout Council on the recommendation of the District Commissioner and the District Trustee Board. The number of community members must not exceed the number of ex officio District Scout Council members (see also (e) below).

d) Membership of the District Scout Council ends when the:

member resigns
member no longer qualifies as a member of the District Scout Council
District Scout Council is dissolved
District Scout Council membership is terminated by UK Headquarters following a recommendation by the District Trustee Board.

e) The total number of appointed and community members of a District Scout Council must not exceed the number of ex officio members

f) Appointed members of a District Scout Council must each have a fixed period for their appointment of not more than three years. Subsequent reappointments are permitted.

g) Community members of a are appointed to the District Scout Council are initially appointed for a term of one year, though they may be renewed annually at the AGM.

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h) District Trustee Board administration (see Rule 5.5.7.9) must ensure that appointed District Scout Council Members are recorded locally in the minutes of the District Scout Council meeting which appoints them (normally the AGM). District Scout Council members, whether ex officio or appointed, must not be recorded as District Scout Council Members on The Scout Association’s membership system.

5.5.5. District Scout Council - Annual General Meeting

5.5.5.1 Each District Scout Council must hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM)

within six months of the end of the District’s financial year. Districts should give 4 weeks notice of the date of the AGM.

5.5.5.2 The AGM must:

a) Undertake governance oversight by

approving the minutes of the previous District AGM
adopting (or re-adopting) the constitution of the charity. See Rule 5.3 of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules.
noting the dates of charity’s financial year
approving appointed and community members of the District Scout Council
• agreeing the maximum total number of members of the District Trustee Board (this is one number representing the total of ex officio, appointed and co-opted members)
agree the quorum for future meetings of the District Scout Council

b) Review the previous year by

receiving from the District Commissioner an overview of the past 12 months of activity in the District
’
• receiving and considering the District Trustees Annual Report and the annual statement of accounts approved by the District Trustee Board. Before the AGM, the accounts must have completed their examination by an appropriate auditor, independent examiner, or scrutineer (see 5.7.3). This must include the formal report prepared by the auditor, independent examiner, or scrutineer.

c) Make appointments

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appoint a Chair of the District Trustee Board, following recommendations from the selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board. Vacancies for Chair only occur at the end of their period of appointment (for example, a Chair may have been appointed for three years and so does not need to be re-appointed after years 1 and 2).
appoint a Treasurer of the District Trustee Board, following recommendations from the selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board. Vacancies for Treasurer only occur at the end of their period of appointment (for example, a Treasurer may have been appointed for three years and so does not need to be re-appointed after years 1 and 2).
appoint other members of the District Trustee Board, following recommendations from the selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board. Vacancies for appointed Trustees only occur at the end of their period of appointment (for example, a Trustee may have been appointed for three years and so does not need to be re-appointed after years 1 and 2).
Appoint two representatives of the District Scout Council to represent the District Scout Council at meetings of the County Scout Council.
approve the appointment of any District Presidents or District Vice Presidents, and note current appointees (if any).
appoint (or re-appoint) an auditor, independent examiner or scrutineer as required
nominate representatives of the District Scout Council to represent the District on the County Scout Council.

5.5.5.3 Following each District AGM, the District Trustee Board administration must ensure that:

a. all appointed Trustees are recorded on the membership system, as required by Rules 16.1.2 and 16.2.2.4 of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules
b. the District Trustees’ Annual Report and Accounts, including the formal report prepared by the auditor, independent examiner, or scrutineer are filed as described in Rule 5.7 of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules

It is good practice for the District Trustee Board to verify the draft Minutes of the AGM at their first meeting following the AGM, even though the minutes cannot be formally approved until the charity’s next AGM.

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5.5.6. District Trustee Board - purpose SV

The District Trustee Board is a team of volunteers who work together, as charity Trustees, to make sure the Scouts is run safely and legally. At the heart of their role is a focus on strategy, performance and assurance.

Effective Trustee support helps other volunteers run the Scout programme that gives young people skills for life.

5.5.6.1 Members of the District Trustee Board must act collectively as charity trustees of Scout District, and in the best interests of the charity’s members.

5.5.6.2 Governance roles must be distinct to help manage conflicts of interest. This means that the roles of District Chair and District Treasurer must be kept separate and be done by two different people.

5.5.6.3 The District Trustee Board must act in the charity’s best interests, acting with reasonable care and skill and take steps to be confident that:

a) The charity is:

well managed
carrying out its purposes for the public benefit
complying with the charity’s governing document and the law
managing the charity’s resources responsibly

b) the charity is operating compliant with POR and the local charity regulator, including effective management of each of the Key Policies listed in Chapter 2 of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules.

c) young people are meaningfully involved in decision making at all levels

d) the District has sufficient resources (funds, people, property and equipment) available to meet the planned work of the District including delivery of the high quality programme and resource requirements of the training programme (see Rule 4.2.2 of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules)

5.5.6.4 The District Trustee Board members must themselves collectively:

a) develop and maintain a risk register, including putting in place appropriate mitigations

b) ensure that the District’s finances are properly managed, including development and maintenance of appropriate budgets to support the work of the District

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c) maintain and manage:

a reserves policy for the charity including a plan for use of reserves outside the ‘minimum’
an investment policy for the charity
a public benefit statement for the charity

d) ensure that people, property and equipment are appropriately insured, and that any property and equipment owned or used by the District is properly protected and maintained

e) ensure the appointment and management and operation of any sub committees, including appointing a Chair to lead the sub committees. This should normally be one of the District’s Trustees.

f) ensure that effective administration is in place to support the work of the District Trustee Board

g) appoint any co-opted members of the District Trustee Board

h) ensure transparency of operation, including:

prepare and approve the Annual Accounts and arrange their examination by an auditor, independent examiner or scrutineer as appropriate and as appointed by the District Scout Council at their AGM
prepare and approve the District Trustees’ Annual Report which must include the Annual Accounts and include the report from the auditor, independent examiner or scrutineer
present the approved Trustees’ Annual Report and Annual Accounts to the District Scout Council for their consideration at the District’s AGM
following the District AGM, ensure that a copy of the District Trustees’ Annual Report and Accounts is sent to the County Trustee Board administration (see Rule 5.5.7.9) and, if the District is a registered charity, is filed with the appropriate charity regulator (if the regulator’s rules require it).

i) take responsibility for the District’s adherence to Data Protection Legislation recognising that, dependent on circumstances, it will at different times act as a Data Controller and as a Data Processor individually and collectively maintain confidentiality regarding appropriate District Trustee Board business

j) individually and collectively maintain confidentiality regarding appropriate District Trustee Board business

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k) put in place annually an open and transparent selection process to recommend to the District Scout Council appropriate persons to be appointed members of the District Trustee Board, including Chair and

Treasurer. Vacancies for appointed Trustees only occur at the end of their period of appointment (for example, a Trustee may have been appointed for three years and so does not need to be re-appointed or re-selected after years 1 and 2).

l) where staff are employed:

act as a responsible employer in accordance with the Scouts’ values and relevant legislation
ensure that effective line management is in place for each employed staff member and that these are clearly established and communicated
ensure that appropriate specific personnel insurance is in place

5.5.6.5 A District Trustee Board may create sub committees it deems necessary to support its governance function. The District Trustee Board must ensure that for any sub committee it appoints:

a. its purpose is governance focused and not operational
b. its members are agreed and approved by the District Trustee Board
c. the District Trustee Board Chair is an ex officio member
d. the District Commissioner is an ex officio member

Sub committee members are not District Trustees unless they are already members of the District Trustee Board.

All sub committee members must be recorded on the membership system.

5.5.6.6 To support effective governance and share good practice, the District Chair and Treasurer should create a support network amongst the Group Chairs and Group Treasurers of the District.

5.5.7. District Trustee Board - membership SV

5.5.7.1 Subject to the conflict of interest rules (see Chapter 16 and the definition of ‘conflict of interest in the Definitions Chapter of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules), a Trustee may be a member of more than one Trustee Board.

5.5.7.2 A District Trustee Board should comprise a maximum of 12 Trustees (the total of all ex officio, appointed and co-opted Trustee categories), with a minimum of five Trustees. The maximum number of Trustees should be agreed by the District Scout Council at its AGM.

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5.5.7.3 Each ex officio, appointed and co-opted member of the District Trustee Board is a charity Trustee of the District as appropriate.

People invited to attend meetings of the District Trustee Board, or with right of attendance, may be present at the meeting but are not charity Trustees and have no voting rights.

5.5.7.4 Certain people are disqualified from being charity trustees by virtue of the Charities Acts.
5.5.7.5 Some Districts may also need to register as a charity (see Rule 13.1.2 of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules). SV

If registered, the District registration number must be recorded on the membership system

Districts must not use any other charity number than their own.

5.5.7.6 All Trustees must complete learning as specified in Rule 16.2.1, 16.2.3, 16.2.4 and the Chapter 16 Roles Table of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules.

5.5.7.7 A District Trustee Board and any sub committees should have at least two Trustees aged between their 18th and 25th birthdays.

5.5.7.8 Each District Trustee Board requires effective administration. The administration may be provided by one or more persons as appropriate to the District.

5.5.7.9 The selection processes leading to appointment of District Trustees must include a rigorous and transparent selection process, which includes advertising vacancies widely.

5.5.7.10 The members of the District Trustee Board are:

a. The District Commissioner and the District Youth Commissioner are ex officio members of a District Trustee Board SV. There is only one ex officio Trustee role for a District Commissioner, so where there are joint role holders for District Commissioner, the role holders must decide, in discussion the District Chair, which of them will be the ex officio Trustee. However, each District Commissioner role holder must be eligible to be a Trustee (as specified in Chapter 16 of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules). There is only one ex officio Trustee role for a District Youth Commissioner, so where there are joint role holders for District Youth Commissioner, the role holders must decide, in discussion

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the District Commissioner and the District Chair, which of them will be the ex officio Trustee. However, each District Youth Commissioner role holder must be eligible to be a Trustee (as specified in Chapter 16 of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules).
b. The District Trustee Board must initiate a selection process to propose a District Chair to the District Scout Council for appointment at their AGM. The vacancies for the role of Chair only occur at the end of their period of appointment (for example, a District Chair may have been appointed for three years and so does not need to be reappointed after years 1 and 2). The proposal from the Trustee Board Is received by the Scout Council at their AGM. The proposal from the Trustee Board does not require seconding by a member of the Scout Council. The action of the Scout Council is to approve (or not) the proposed name from the Trustee Board.
c. The District Trustee Board must initiate a selection process to propose a District Treasurer to the District Scout Council for appointment at their AGM. The vacancies for the role of Treasurer only occur at the end of their period of appointment (for example, a District Treasurer may have been appointed for three years and so does not need to be re-appointed after years 1 and 2). The proposal from the Trustee Board Is received by the Scout Council at their AGM. The proposal from the Trustee Board does not require seconding by a member of the Scout Council. The action of the Scout Council is to approve (or not) the proposed name from the Trustee Board.
d. The appointed members of a District Trustee Board are persons appointed by the District Scout Council at the District’s AGM. This should follow a selection process initiated and overseen by the District Trustee Board. The vacancies for the role of Trustee only occur at the end of their period of appointment (for example, a District Trustee may have been appointed for three years and so does not need to be re-appointed after years 1 and 2). The proposal from the Trustee Board Is received by the Scout Council at their AGM. The proposal from the Trustee Board does not require seconding by a member of the Scout Council. The action of the Scout Council is to approve (or not) the proposed name from the Trustee Board.
e. The co-opted members of a District Trustee Board are persons coopted annually by the District Trustee Board. They are not appointed by the District Scout Council at its AGM. The number of co-opted members must not exceed the actual number of appointed Trustees (excluding Chair and Treasurer).

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f. The County Chair and the County Commissioner each have the right of attendance at meetings of each of the District Trustee Boards in the Districts in the County.

5.5.7.11 Term limits for Trustees are defined in POR rule 5.3.1.6.

5.5.7.12 If a District Trustee Board Chair or Treasurer resigns, then Rule 16.6.3 of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation and Rules must be followed.

5.5.8. District Scout Council - Conduct of meetings

5.5.8.1 The District Scout Council meets at their AGM (see 5.5.5). It would be unusual for there to be additional meetings of the District Scout Council.

5.5.8.2 A District Scout Council meeting should normally be convened with at least four weeks’ notice. A meeting may be convened on shorter or no notice with the agreement of at least three quarters of the members of the District Trustee Board.

5.5.8.3 District Scout Council meetings are chaired by the District Chair. If the Chair is unable to be present, the Chair may appoint a delegate to chair a meeting of the District Scout Council subject to such appointment being approved at the start of the meeting by a majority of the District Scout Council members present.

5.5.8.4 Only District Scout Council members, as defined in Rule 5.5.4, may vote in District Scout Council meetings.

5.5.8.5 The quorum for a District Scout Council meeting is agreed by the District Scout Council at their AGM (see 5.5.5.2)

If there is no quorum present at a meeting of the District Scout Council, the meeting must be closed and reconvened at the earliest opportunity.

5.5.8.6 Decisions are made by a majority of votes cast by those present at the meeting. In the event of an equal number of votes being cast on either side, the Chair does not have a casting vote and the matter is taken not to have been carried.

5.5.8.7 In order to discharge their responsibilities, the District Scout Council may meet by video conference as well as (or instead of) face to face when agreed by the District Chair. The District Scout Council must not ‘meet’ using any indirect process, such as email.

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At any meeting which is not fully in person, there must be an online poll or other electronic method of counting votes.

5.5.8.8 All meetings of the District Scout Council, whether face-to-face or otherwise, must be properly recorded and minuted.

5.5.9. District Trustee Board - Conduct of meetings

5.5.9.1 Meetings of the District Trustee Board should be convened on at least two week’s notice. Meetings may be convened on shorter or no notice with the agreement of at least half of the members of the District Trustee Board.

5.5.9.2 District Trustee Board meetings are chaired by the District Chair. If the District Chair is unable to be present, they may appoint a delegate to chair a meeting of the District Trustee Board subject to such appointment being approved at the start of the meeting by a majority of the members present at the meeting.

5.5.9.3 Only members of a District Trustee Board as defined in 5.5.7 may vote in its meetings.

5.5.9.4 The quorum for a meeting of a District Trustee Board is one third of the Trustees (ex officio plus appointed plus co-opted) plus one.

If there is no quorum present at a meeting of the District Trustee Board, the meeting must be closed and reconvened at the earliest opportunity.

5.5.9.5 In the case of a sub committee of the District Trustee Board, the quorum for each sub committee must be set by the District Trustee Board, based on the size of the sub committee and the complexity of its task(s).

5.5.9.6 Decisions are made by a majority of votes cast by those present at the meeting. In the event of an equal number of votes being cast on either side, the Chair does not have a casting vote and the matter is taken not to have been carried.

5.5.9.7 In order to discharge their responsibilities, the District Trustee Board may meet by telephone or video conference as well as face to face when agreed by the District Chair. This includes ‘hybrid’ meetings, where some members are present at an agreed meeting place and others join by telephone or video.

5.5.9.8 Where urgent matters arise between scheduled meetings of the District Trustee Board and if it is not practicable to convene a meeting of the District Trustee Board then an electronic voting method (such as email) is allowed for decision making of the District Trustee Board when deemed appropriate by the

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District Chair. In such circumstances at least 75% of the members of the District Trustee Board must approve the decision, and the outcome of the voting must be reported at, and recorded in the minutes of, the next District Trustee Board meeting.

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FINANCE REPORT:

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

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Income 2023 2022
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
£ £
Donations, legacies and similar
income
Membership subscriptions received 66,972 70,342
Less: Membership subscriptions paid
(58,159) (53,019)
on
Net membership subscriptions
8,813 17,324
retained
Donations 60 1,205
Legacies 0 0
Transfer from Closed Groups 6,982 0
Gift Aid 323 1,780
Sundry Income 340 584
Rent of HQ Building 3,730 1,290
1st Aid Training Fees Received 800 450
Income from Scouting Activities 130,212 128,802
Sub total 151,260 151,435
Grants
Grants (inc Covid-19) 500 5,334
Sub total 500 5,334
Fundraising (gross)
Various Fundraising activities 1,717 0
Shop Sales 15,847 16,803
Sub total 17,564 16,803
Investment income
Bank interest 1,522 406
Sub total 1,522 406
Total Gross Income 170,846 173,978
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1 LT700003

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Expenditure 2023 2022

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Total funds Total funds
£ £
Charitable Payments
Youth programme and activities 31,170 30,981
Grants Made 0 257
Jamborees- World & Eurojam 0 5,118
Adult Support and training 500
Water 396 386
Electricity and Gas 15,067 11,489
Insurance 6,184 4,212
Repairs and Renewals 21,475 33,171
New Alarm & CCTV System 0 2,608
New Website 0 1,010
Replacement Audio Visual Equipment 0 633
Waste Disposal 4,738 4,762
Cleaning 3,465 3,116
Telephone 939 647
District Administration 2,973 3,125
Bank Charges 262 314
Major Improvement Projects 44,192 0
Depreciation of Equipment 23,309 11,606
Sundry Expenses 5,936 3,909
Sub total 160,606 117,344
Fundraising expenses
Shop Purchases 14,551 15,211
Sub total 14,551 15,211
Total Gross Expenditure 175,157 132,555
Net of receipts/(payments) (4,311) 41,423
Transfers between funds 0 0
Total funds last year end 41,423 0
Total funds this year end 37,112 41,423
----- End of picture text -----

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----- Start of picture text -----
Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the year
31-Dec-23 31-Dec-22
Assets Total funds Total funds
£ £
Cash funds
Bank current accounts 49,414 62,431
Bank deposit accounts 140,524 117,219
Shop Bank Account & Cash 5,152 3,173
Cash 15 131
Total cash funds 195,105 182,954
Other monetary assets
Debtors and Prepayments 13,339 7,754
Sub total 13,339 7,754
Non monetary assets for
charity's own use
Shop stock 6,000 6,000
Other stock 2,600 1,500
Land and buildings 300,000 307,765
Scouting equipment, furniture etc 0 15,544
Sub total 308,600 330,809
Total Assets 517,044 521,517
Liabilities
Accounts not yet paid 4,452 4,612
Other liabilities- Explorers 8,002 8,002
Sub total 12,454 12,614
Net Assets 504,590 508,903
The funds of the charity:
Unrestricted funds 0
General funds 504,592 508,903
Total charity funds 504,592 508,903
----- End of picture text -----

(0)

The above Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of assets and liabilities were approved by the Trustees on 22 May 2024 and signed on their behalf by Alexander James Fletcher (Chair).

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Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

District and Shop

----- Start of picture text -----
Income 2023 2022
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
£ £
Donations, legacies and similar
income
Membership subscriptions received 60,956 61,880
Less: Membership subscriptions paid
(55,980) (51,170)
on
Net membership subscriptions retained 4,976 10,710
Donations 60 1,165
Legacies 0 0
Transfer from Closed Groups 6,982
Gift Aid 0 0
Sundry Income 217 131
Rent of HQ Building 3,730 1,290
1st Aid Training Fees Received 800 450
Income from Scouting Activities 9,731 3,787
Sub total 26,496 17,533
Grants
Covid-19 Grants 500 2,667
Sub total 500 2,667
Fundraising (gross)
Various Fundraising activities 0 0
Shop sales 15,847 16,803
Sub total 15,847 16,803
Investment income
Bank interest 487 193
Sub total 487 193
Total Gross Income 43,330 37,196
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Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Expenditure	2023	2022
	Total funds	Total funds
	£	£
Charitable Payments

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----- Start of picture text -----
Youth programme and activities 8,714 6,023
Grants Made 0 257
Jamborees- World & Eurojam 5,118
Adult Support and training 500
Water 308 299
Electricity and Gas 2,771 1,260
Insurance 1,827 1,228
Repairs and Renewals 2,746 2,132
New Alarm & CCTV System 2,608
New Website 1,010
Replacement Audio Visual Equipment 633
Waste Disposal 0 0
Cleaning 833 778
Telephone 588 277
District Administration 2,973 3,125
Bank Charges 190 242
Major Improvement Projects 0 0
Depreciation of Equipment 0 0
Sundry Expenses 4,279 2,882
Sub total 25,729 27,872
Fundraising expenses
Shop Purchases 14,551 15,211
Sub total 14,551 15,211
Total Gross Expenditure 40,280 43,083
Net of receipts/(payments) 3,050 (5,887)
Transfers between funds 0 0
Total funds last year end (11,774) (5,887)
Total funds this year end (8,724) (11,774)
----- End of picture text -----

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----- Start of picture text -----
Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the year
31-Dec-23 31-Dec-22
Assets Total funds Total funds
£ £
Cash funds
Bank current accounts 5,160 6,612
Bank deposit accounts 75,012 67,012
Shop Bank Account & Cash 5,152 3,173
Cash 0 0
Total cash funds 85,324 76,797
Other monetary assets
Debtors and Prepayments 399 7,754
Sub total 399 7,754
Non monetary assets for
charity's own use
Shop stock 6,000 6,000
Other stock 0 0
Land and buildings 300,000 300,000
Scouting equipment, furniture etc 0 0
Sub total 306,000 306,000
Total Assets 391,723 390,551
Liabilities
Accounts not yet paid 1,352 3,228
Other liabilities- Eurojam 0 0
Sub total 1,352 3,228
Net Assets 390,371 387,323
The funds of the charity:
Unrestricted funds
General funds 390,373 387,323
Total charity funds 390,373 387,323
----- End of picture text -----

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Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

----- Start of picture text -----
Barnswood Camp Site
Income 2023 2022
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
£ £
Donations, legacies and similar
income
Membership subscriptions 0 0
Less: Membership subscriptions paid
0 0
on
Net membership subscriptions retained 0 0
Donations 0 0
Legacies 0 0
Transfer from Closed Groups
Gift Aid 0 0
Sundry Income 123 453
Rent of HQ Building
1st Aid Training Fees Received
Income from Scouting Activities 113,091 100,062
Sub total 113,214 100,515
Grants
Grants (inc Covid-19) 0 2,667
Sub total 0 2,667
Fundraising (gross)
Various Fundraising activities 0 0
Shop sales 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Investment income
Bank interest 1,035 213
Sub total 1,035 213
Total Gross Income 114,249 103,395
----- End of picture text -----

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Expenditure	2023	2022
	Unrestricted	Unrestricted
	funds	funds
	£	£
Charitable Payments

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----- Start of picture text -----
Youth programme and activities 0 0
Grants Made
Jamborees- World & Eurojam
Adult Support and training
Water 88 87
Electricity and Gas 12,296 10,229
Insurance 4,357 2,984
Repairs and Renewals & Mowing 18,729 31,039
New Alarm & CCTV System
New Website
Replacement Audio Visual Equipment
Waste Disposal 4,738 4,762
Cleaning 2,632 2,338
Telephone 351 370
District Administration
Bank Charges 72 72
Major Improvement Projects 44,192 0
Depreciation of Equpment 23,309 11,085
Sundry Expenses 1,657 1,027
Sub total 112,421 63,993
Fundraising expenses
Shop Purchases 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Total Gross Expenditure 112,421 63,993
Net of receipts/(payments) 1,828 39,402
Total funds last year end 78,804 39,402
Total funds this year end 80,632 78,804
----- End of picture text -----

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----- Start of picture text -----
Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the year
31-Dec-23 31-Dec-22
Assets Total funds Total funds
£ £
Cash funds
Bank current accounts 9,077 12,146
Bank deposit accounts 65,512 50,207
Shop Bank Account & Cash 0
Cash 0 0
Total cash funds 74,589 62,353
Other monetary assets
Debtors 12,940 0
Sub total 12,940 0
Non monetary assets for
charity's own use
Shop stock 0 0
Other stock 2,600 1,500
Land and buildings 0 7,765
Scouting equipment, furniture etc 0 15,544
Sub total 2,600 24,809
Total Assets 90,129 87,162
Liabilities
Accounts not yet paid 2,523 1,384
Other liabilities- Eurojam 0 0
Sub total 2,523 1,384
Net Assets 87,606 85,778
The funds of the charity:
Unrestricted funds
General funds 87,606 85,778
Total charity funds 87,606 85,778
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Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

----- Start of picture text -----
Explorers
Income 2023 2022
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
£ £
Donations, legacies and similar
income
Membership subscriptions 11,187 13,634
Less: Membership subscriptions paid
(7,350) (7,020)
on
Net membership subscriptions retained 3,837 6,614
Donations 0 40
Legacies 0 0
Transfer from Closed Groups
Gift Aid 323 1,780
Sundry Income 0 0
Rent of HQ Building
1st Aid Training Fees Received
Income from Scouting Activities 7,390 24,953
Sub total 11,550 33,387
Grants
Grants (inc Covid-19) 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Fundraising (gross)
Various Fundraising activities 1,717 0
Shop sales 0 0
Sub total 1,717 0
Investment income
Bank interest 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Total Gross Income 13,267 33,387
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Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Expenditure	2023	2022
	Unrestricted	Unrestricted
	funds	funds
	£	£
Charitable Payments

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----- Start of picture text -----
Youth programme and activities 22,456 24,958
Grants Made
Jamborees- World & Eurojam
Adult Support and training
Water 0 0
Electricity and Gas 0 0
Insurance 0 0
Repairs and Renewals 0 0
New Alarm & CCTV System
New Website
Replacement Audio Visual Equipment
Waste Disposal
Cleaning
Telephone
District Administration
Bank Charges
Major Improvement Projects 0 0
Depreciation of Equipment 0 521
Sundry Expenses 0 0
Sub total 22,456 25,479
Fundraising expenses
Shop Purchases 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Total Gross Expenditure 22,456 25,479
Net of receipts/(payments) (9,189) 7,908
Total funds last year end 43,975 36,067
Total funds this year end 34,786 43,975
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----- Start of picture text -----
Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the year
31-Dec-23 31-Dec-22
Assets Total funds Total funds
£ £
Cash funds
Bank current accounts 35,177 43,673
Bank deposit accounts
Shop Bank Account & Cash
Cash 15 131
Total cash funds 35,192 43,804
Other monetary assets
Debtors 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Non monetary assets for
charity's own use
Shop stock 0 0
Other stock 0 0
Land and buildings 0 0
Scouting equipment, furniture etc 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Total Assets 35,192 43,804
Liabilities
Accounts not yet paid 577 0
Other liabilities- Fundraising Acct 8,002 8,002
Sub total 8,579 8,002
Net Assets 26,613 35,802
The funds of the charity:
Unrestricted funds
General funds 26,613 35,802
Total charity funds 26,613 35,802
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Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

----- Start of picture text -----
CONSOLIDATION ADJUSTMENTS
Income 2023 2022
Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
£ £
Donations, legacies and similar
income
Membership subscriptions (5,171) (5,171)
Less:Membership subscriptions paid
5,171 5,171
on (National/County/Area/District)
Net membership subscriptions retained 0 0
Donations 0 0
Legacies 0 0
Gift Aid 0 0
Sundry Income 0 0
Rent of HQ Building
1st Aid Training Fees Received
Income from Scouting Activities
Sub total 0 0
Grants
Covid-19 Grants 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Fundraising (gross)
Various Fundraising activities 0 0
Shop sales 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Investment income
Bank interest 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Total Gross Income 0 0
----- End of picture text -----

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Expenditure	2023	2022
	Unrestricted	Unrestricted
	funds	funds
	£	£
Charitable Payments

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----- Start of picture text -----
Youth programme and activities
Grants Made
Jamborees- World & Eurojam
Adult Support and training
Rates and water 0 0
Electricity and Gas 0 0
Insurance 0 0
Repairs and Renewals 0 0
New Alarm & CCTV System
New Website
Replacement Audio Visual Equipment
Waste Disposal
Cleaning
Telephone
District Administration
Bank Charges
Major Improvement Projects 0 0
Depreciation of Equipment 0 0
Sundry Expenses 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Fundraising expenses
Shop Purchases 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Total Gross Expenditure 0 0
Net of receipts/(payments) 0 0
Total funds last year end 0 0
Total funds this year end 0 0
----- End of picture text -----

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Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the year

----- Start of picture text -----
31-Dec-23 31-Dec-22
Assets Total funds Total funds
£ £
Cash funds
Bank current accounts 0 0
Bank deposit accounts
Shop Bank Account & Cash
Cash 0 0
Total cash funds 0 0
Other monetary assets
Debtors 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Non monetary assets for
charity's own use
Shop stock 0 0
Other stock 0 0
Land and buildings 0 0
Scouting equipment, furniture etc 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Total Assets 0 0
Liabilities
Accounts not yet paid 0 0
Other liabilities- Eurojam 0 0
Sub total 0 0
Net Assets 0 0
The funds of the charity:
Unrestricted funds
General funds 0 0
Total charity funds 0 0
----- End of picture text -----

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COUNTY REPORT:

A year of achievement

Each year I look back with nothing but pride at what we’ve achieved together. This year, I truly believe we’ve more to be proud of than ever.

Cheshire Scouts recorded a further 3% growth in youth membership this year, with over 304 young people and 65 adult leaders joining our 12,668-strong movement.

Just two years ago, Squirrels – the section for 4-6 year olds – was launched, and this year we’ve opened another 12 Squirrels Dreys across the County, giving us a total of 21, with another 7 planned for 2024 so far.

We’ve secured funding to support our ambitious Inclusive Growth Plan, recruiting two full-time Local Growth Officers to help us open more than 40 new sections in underrepresented communities over the next two years.

We were awarded Charity of the Year 2023 by The Cheshire and Warrington Pledge for Chamboree – our international Scout and Guide Jamboree.

Our annual Cheshire Hike event in April was a sell-out, with over 700 Scouts and Explorers taking part. Whilst 275 Cub Scouts slept under the GAIA Earth Artwork at Chester Cathedral.

We opened our Skills Day out to Young Leaders, with over 120 taking part.

We had our first ever Cheshire ‘King’s Scouts on Parade’ at Windsor this St. George’s Day. Over 560 Scouts and Explorers were awarded top awards at our Celebrating Success event this autumn, including 60 Explorer Belts, 130 You Shape Awards. The High Sheriff of Cheshire also made special awards to our Explorer Belt and World Scout Jamboree adult leadership teams in celebration of our global summer.

Over 100 Cheshire Scouts and leaders had an unforgettable experience out in South Korea for the 25th World Scout Jamboree. Despite the hurdles, our Scouts broadened their horizons and showed incredible adaptability, while exploring the cultural heritage of South Korea during the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In addition, our Explorer Belt contingent of 60 Explorer Scouts and Scout Network members had an amazing two-week European international expedition this Summer, with teams traveling across Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany.

We held two successful Community Impact Days at Tatton Park for under-represented communities, and children in foster care, as well as 24 ‘Big Help Out’ events across our 9 Districts for the King’s Coronation.

I am really excited to have appointed Dan Skinner as the next as Youth Lead for Cheshire Scouts, a role designed to ensure young people are empowered to share

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their ideas and have a meaningful voice, getting them involved and engaged in our decision making.

Dan said, “I can’t wait to get out and meet as many young people as I can and get them engaged in everything we do. Young people have brilliant ideas and talent that can drive Scouting forward and. drive growth. Let’s inspire and support our youth – to shape their own adventure!”.

Scouts is a team game, and everyone plays their part. Thank you for all you do, making Scouts open to all, supporting our young people, and most of all, looking out for each other, as we continue to transform our volunteering experience and help more young people gain the skills, they need to shine bright.

Dave Hopley County Lead Volunteer

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CHAIRS REPORT:

It is my pleasure to present the Chair's report for the last year of Scouting in Macclesfield and Congleton District. This has been a year of growth, development, and adventure for our young people and adults, who have enjoyed a range of activities and opportunities from within our local Scout huts to the other side of the world. I would like to thank all the volunteers, parents, supporters, and partners who have made this possible and contributed to the success of our district. I do encourage you to read the other reports in the AGM papers, as they give a real insight into the breadth of Scouting, we have provided across the district in the last 12 months.

One of the major achievements of this year has been the final roll out of the Transformation Strategy, which has brought positive change across the district. This strategy has involved alterations to the function of the Trustee Boards, which will help govern our Scouting activities in the district with a greater level of control and accountability. On a personal note, this change has allowed us to shift the focus of the District Trustee Board, and it has been a pleasure to welcome new Trustees in from both inside and outside of Scouting. I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of Neil Raval, who has led this transformation and ensured its smooth implementation.

We have also seen another excellent year in the usage and maintenance of our key district assets: the Barnswood Campsite and the District HQ. Barnswood has seen fantastic Scouting usage from those both inside and outside of the district, with a particular highlight being District Camp in early May 2024, which brought together Scouts and leaders from all over the district for a sunny weekend under canvas. Across the year we have also welcomed non-Scouting groups to use the site, who have benefited from the facilities and the natural environment we can offer. These strategic partnerships with non-Scouting organisations have also generated revenue, which we are ensuring we re-invest into Barnswood to maintain this unique asset. We have also seen a busy year at our HQ, with a wide variety of users making use of the space. It has been great to see the long-term future of this building being secured in early 2024 with a new roof being installed to ensure this asset remains a key asset for the district.

It has been a pleasure to act in the role as District Chair across the last year. I would also like to commend the brilliant contribution of Mike Brown, our district lead volunteer, who has been an inspiring and supportive leader for our district. I am looking forward to another busy and exciting year of Scouting, with more challenges, opportunities, and achievements for our young people and adults. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our district and our Scouting movement.

Alex Fletcher

District Chair of Trustees

DISTRICT LEAD VOLUNTEERS REPORT:

Last year in my report, I talked about how as a district we needed a fresh vision – imagining what Scouting in Macclesfield and Congleton would look like, sound like and feel like in 2030. Shortly after our AGM the Core District Team met to agree our “view from the summit”.

We are THE Choice for Fun, Safe Adventures and Experiences that give Skills For Life to all Young People and Adults.

What does this mean?

“THE choice” acknowledges that young people have many choices for how they spend their time. This could be in front of a screen, or taking part in many of the clubs and societies available. Scouting offers a compelling choice; very few organisations offer such as wide range of opportunities.

“Fun” – we all should enjoy what we are doing in Scouting; young and old. If you are not enjoying Scouting, come and talk to us; there are lots of ways to get involved and do something different. Remember, this is a hobby!

“Safe” – Safety is our highest priority for all our members. In everything we do we consider risks and do everything we can to ensure that everyone has a safe experience. Whilst we operate to a high standard, we should not be complacent, and we must operate within the rules we are given.

“Adventures and Experiences” – from walking into the hall for a first ever Squirrels meeting, to wild camping with Explorers on the top of Glaramara in the peaks; I’ve had some amazing adventures and experiences with Scouting in the last 12 months. Imagine what these are like for our young members!

Everything we do provides an experience or an adventure; or both!

“Skills for life” – through our Scouting we should strive to learn, and provide opportunities to everyone to learn and practice new skills that are useful in future. Why turn to YouTube to learn how to do something when you can have hands on experience through Scouting?

“To all young people and adults” – we are a youth led organisation, and young people are at the heart of everything we do. We should not overlook what we offer to adult volunteers though… each of us has our reasons for volunteering – making new friends, practicing skills to support professional development, giving back to the community, improving our mental health and more. By asking the question “What can Scouting offer YOU?” we are more likely to attract volunteers. At a recruitment event in Macclesfield last year we took this approach and despite a low foot-fall, we were successful in recruiting 4 new volunteers.

You can read more about our vision for 2030, and the strategic principles that - - - - - - underpin it at https://www.mcscouts.org.uk/our journey to 2030 vision and

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principles. Over the coming months the District Team will be mapping out our outcomes; the areas we will be setting our sights on to get us to where we want to go.

As well as defining our vision, there has been much change nationally in Scouting. We have made huge strides towards adopting the shift from Executive Committees to Trustee Boards. The role of trustees is much more clearly defined so that legal obligations are understood. Trustees are now talking about risks to our charities and assuring safety and compliance; less about what colour the walls need to be painted.

We are “ready” for the implementation of the new adult membership system. This is another huge change that has been deferred nationally due to data transfer issues from Compass, but when that hurdle is resolved we are very much looking forward to the new learning systems, changes to the welcome process and simplification of awards and nights away approvals that it will bring. It will be a lot of change in one go, so we need to fasten our seatbelts ready for the ride ahead. It will likely be a bumpy ride, but the destination will be one well worth travelling to.

Much change is likely following the inquest into the death of Ben Leonard in 2018. We continue to be saddened by the loss of Ben and our thoughts are forever with his family and friends.

It is clear from the association’s response to the inquest that nationally we have to do more to ensure that we further improve our training and our assurance of safety. Again, change can be uncomfortable to adapt to, but we absolutely must adopt the changes to ensure that tragedies like this never happen again. We are all keen to support the association learn and change.

As you read through the reports from our team, I’m sure you will join me in awe at the amount of amazing adventures and experiences that are being delivered week in, week out across all of our sections, all of our groups.

It’s been particularly warming to see Groups working together to support each other. As recently as District Camp we saw 1[st] Buglawton joining together with Leaders from Dane Valley to provide opportunity for cubs and leaders at 1[st] Congleton to experience a camp for the very first time as a newly launched pack. Also recently, leaders from 3[rd] Macclesfield teamed up with 1[st] Buglawton, 1[st] Gawsworth and 6[th] Macclesfield to provide extra training opportunities for MaccHike teams.

Our young leader scheme continues to thrive, with young leaders experiencing Scouting not only within the groups they came through, but also spreading their wings wider to other groups to enrich their experiences. It’s fantastic to see young people grow, without boundaries, and even more so when they volunteer as adults to further grow Scouting in the area.

I would like to end my report with my sincere thanks to each and every volunteer that makes Scouting happen. From delivering a skill, buttering sandwiches, taking kit to camp through to serving on a trustee board, planning, and delivering weekly

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programmes, and spending time on administration and learning; we could not move forward without these acts of kindness and without your dedication.

Thank you for all you do,

Mike Brown

District Lead Volunteer / District Learning Lead Volunteer Macclesfield and Congleton District Scouts District HQ: 32 West Bond Street, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK11 8EQ

http://www.mcscouts.org.uk

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CAMPSITE REPORT:

2023 saw the publication of the Barnswood website and introduction of a new booking system. These have helped potential campers find the information they require and then easily make a booking. A minor claim to fame is that one month the Barnswood website was the most accessed Scout camp website.

It seems such a long time ago given the record rainfall experienced, but May and June were very hot and dry. Barnswood’s trees provided welcome shade and mitigated against the worst effects. The rapidly draining sites continued to allow camping in the subsequent very wet weather.

Obvious developments on site have been the provision of the very popular benches located in the Dome, by Campfire Circle and on Beaver Base. Less obvious was the submission of a pre planning application for capital development and the starting of nature trails with the involvement of Staffordshire Fungus Group who, in 2 hours in September, found 25 different fungi.

We also had another successful year of working with Entrust who used the site during the week throughout high season, providing archery & axe throwing targets and parachute shelters for use by other campers at weekends.

Barnswood has hosted campers on more than 80% of high season nights, with some coming from over 200 miles away (to go to Alton Towers). In summary, there were over 3400 children staying overnight from around 100 different organisations, with only 16 of these from M&C. The camps vary from large district camps of 300+ to small groups of DofE hikers.

The continuing lack of new volunteers has meant that the load on the current number of willing troopers has been high and resulted in additional expenditure through contracting out what has been done by volunteers in the past.

Mark Eden

Benches in the Dome

District Campsite Lead Volunteer

Parachute on Beech Tree

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4-14 REPORTS:-

This year the District 4 - 14 sub team have met several times to review the activities taking place across the District for the Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs and Scout sections.

For the 2023 year, the District team has once again been very busy.

In addition to working with all of the Groups across District on the up and coming changes to the structure of the Governance across Scouting, and the introduction of Trustee Boards, replacing Exec Committees, there has been the organising and running of District events for each of the Sections

The Squirrels colonies in District are continuing to thrive, with very positive feedback from the section leads at 1st Hurdsfield and Dane Valley. Looking to the next Scouting year, the District Squirrels team are happy to support a phased roll out of additional Squirrels sections to increase the number sections across District. As Groups feel they have the right foundations, they can reach out to District for a review, and we are ready to support them.

Beavers sections across the District are full to capacity, with only a few Groups having any spaces at all. The challenges are particularly acute in the Poynton area with large waiting lists building. As for activities this year, there have been two District Beaver sleep overs, at Barnswood and at the Abney Centre in Cheadle. These are really well supported and every Group that attends reports on how much fun the Beavers and their leaders have had. With District managing all of the planning and organising, the leaders can join in, and support without having to arrange the Risk Assessments, have a nights away permit holder, and everything that running a camp entails. The annual Beaver Challenge day was also a great success with a range of bases set up and run by each colony that attended.

Meanwhile, the Cubs took part in a Pinewood Derby. 150 car kits were distributed to Packs across the District at the last District Cub Leader meeting. The Cubs then used the kits to build their cars to a specific specification. The District Cubs team then organised the Pinewood Derby race day in November at Tytherington primary school. There were 63 cars entered and they raced to find the fastest car and the most economical car (the slowest car to cross the line). There was also an award for the best designed car based on the Super heroes theme. To finish the event there was a leaders race, and it was with great interest to everyone at the event to watch Thor's hammer racing down the track. Great fun was had by everyone involved, and thanks go out to everyone who supported this 'super' hero themed event. The older Cubs also enjoyed a weekend at Barnswood for Senior Cub camp. This is always a great annual event and the older Cubs really get a tremendous amount of experience out of this camp.

We still urgently need to fill the role of District Lead for the Scouts section, and would love to include more District events. The annual Macc Hike 2023 took place, this year seeing the teams walk over the hills from Poynton to Linnet Clough on the first day,

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and back to Bollington on the second day. Safety remains the first priority on this challenging expedition for the Scouts and the Groups work hard on the training in the months ahead of the hike. For 2024 the plan is to allow more time for this ahead of the hike that will take place in April rather than in March. Hopefully the weather will be improved with the later date as well.

All sections from many Groups took part in the bi-annual Jota/Joti Camp, though with challenging weather conditions on the Friday evening, this was cut short with Groups given the option of arriving on Saturday morning, to avoid the worst of the conditions. Despite this the camp went ahead, the weather brightened up, and there were some great activities run, that worked well across all the ages that attended. Everyone got their Jota/Joti passports stamped and had a great time around the campfire.

With more 4 - 14 District Sub team meetings planned, we look forward to working with all the Groups across District, and to supporting the adult volunteers that give their time to helping our youth members develop, grow and most importantly have great fun and adventures, whilst keeping them safe.

I’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all of the District 4 – 14 team, and to all of the Group Lead Volunteers for the time they volunteer, and for helping to provide such great opportunities for the 4 – 14 year olds that take part in Scouting across the Macclesfield and Congleton District each week. Thanks also to all of the other volunteers that are so key to delivering a safe, fun and engaging programme to the 4 – 14 year olds across the District

Thanks and regards

Tim Hope

District 4-14 Lead Volunteer

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14-24 REPORT:

Network Scouting (18-24 year olds) was very quiet in 2023, with the wonderful exception of some DofE and King’s Scout Awards - Congratulations to Joe L and Tom S. Two Network members participated in the World Scout Jamboree as staff, and 2 Network members participated in the Explorer Belt expedition – more below. Katie (our Network lead, has communicated with a large number of potential Network members, and we hope to have more news from 2024 – watch this space!

Explorer Scouting (14-17 year olds) provided an active and varied programme through 2023 - the Young People and Leaders of the six weekly Units (Maasai, Maori, Spartan, Titan, Trojan and Zulu ESUs), and the Leaders of the Young Leader (Samurai) Unit and the District DofE team all contributed to planning and running activities as varied as cooking food for people living in hostels, hiking under a full moon, kayaking, rock climbing, formal debating, environmental work, sorting several tons of food for our local foodbank, and training for and running programmes for younger sections (Thanks to Alan W for his continued leadership of our very popular Young Leader Unit – the Samurai Unit – providing opportunities and training for Explorers to work as Young Leaders in Beaver, Cub and Scout sections in most of the District’s Groups). The dedication and energy of the Explorer Scouts themselves is always inspiring to see, and the effort put into planning and running this variety of activities is impressive – all Units now set their own programme each term, and Explorers run activities regularly, with the support of their Leaders.

We started 2023 running a “Level 4” First Aid qualification, open to Explorers from all Units, which took 6 nights (plus homework!) to complete. We try to run these every 3-4 years to give all Explorers a chance to attend in their time in Explorers. This year was particularly important, since we had Explorers attending both the World Scout Jamboree and an Explorer Belt expedition (more later). Thanks go to Ann Eden for being our assessor at the end of the course.

We run camps as a District, and our Service Camp in Feb 2023 was attended by members of 5 Units, with fences repaired, drains dug, and new benches built for the Campfire, Dome and Beaver activity area (picture right), in teams led by (among others) Phil and Hannah (Zulu Leaders). Martin H (Maasai Leader) looked after us on this camp, and also on “Jamboree on the Air” (JOTA) camp later in the year.

Macc Hike was again supported by Explorers in 2023, helping at the Start, the Base camp, and supporting hikers on the actual route. The District Climbing Team (esp Tom, Alex and Steve) ran climbing and abseiling sessions again - it’s great to have indoor walls to practice, but real rock, views across valleys, and finding a natural route can’t be beaten. (Btw, these are eagerly requested again in 2024 and yes, there will be veggie burgers Steve!)

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Alex (and Mike, our DLV) led the 2023 Remembrance wildcamp to Glaramara in November, another Remembrance Peak – these hikes are only open to very experienced Explorer hikers, and are very popular.

Martin Wheeler planned and ran another overnight navigation exercise –drier than the previous one! - and sunrise on Gun Hill was very atmospheric. All the teams learned a lot from this. Thanks Martin!

We welcomed Steve and Holly Platt-Wells as the new Leaders of the Duke of Edinburgh provision towards the end of 2023 – the 2023 programme went smoothly, with other 35 Explorers gaining awards across Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. Simon Appleton, Jon and Laura Smith and Paul Nichols (supported as needed by all the other ESLs!) provided a great DofE experience and welcomed Steve and Holly. Thanks to all.

Last Summer saw 10 Macc&Cong Explorers head to South Korea for the World Scout Jamboree, after a very challenging 18 months of fundraising. The Jamboree did not run to plan (as reported in the press) – the UK Contingent, including the 2 Units from Cheshire, were taken off the site for several days to continue an impromptu programme around Seoul.

One Cheshire Unit arrived just after the opening ceremony, and immediately helped put up tents for other Units in a rainstorm – their attitude was brilliant, and they made the most of all their opportunities throughout, including visiting the Royal Palace in traditional costume (hanbok) a few days later, meeting lots of Scouts from around the world, and trying lots of food! The Korean people were welcoming and generous, and the closing ceremony was moved to a sports stadium with a K-Pop band (picture right). One Unit member said “it wasn’t what we expected, but I’d not change the experience, it was amazing”. Huge thanks to their Parents, Leaders and District Exec (as was) for their support.

Another huge undertaking was the County Explorer Belt expedition. EB requires a minimum 10 day expedition based around a major project, including 50 hours travelling and another 10 minor projects. ALL the travel, accommodation, route in country, food, and project work MUST be planned and executed by the Young People. The Belt is only awarded to those fully engaged in planning and doing their team’s expedition (each team of 3-7 planned a different route), and formally reporting on the major project afterwards.

The County took 13 teams (around 70 young people including 9 Explorers and Network members from our District) to Belgium, Netherlands and Germany with 4

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adult mentor pairs supporting. Some wonderful memories were made including standing on the “tri point” of the three countries, and mini projects including cooking and serving a cream tea in a Scout Hut, cycling in a mine, visiting the 230m high Rhine Tower (picture left), an incredible 3 hour boat journey going “back in time” round Amsterdam given by another local Scout leader, and one team travelling on foot and bicycle to Arnhem, learning about and experiencing the “Operation Market Garden” route. Congratulations to Maria, Olly, Jess (setting off from our chateau, right), Reuben, Tom, Hugo, James, Jason and Joey for gaining a really challenging award, and having some incredible experiences!

These experiences are only possible because of the wonderful Leaders who volunteer including all those mentioned above, plus Chris (Maori), Alan F (Maasai), Gavin and Su (Titan), Hannah, Phil and Bee (Zulu), Claire, Nicola and Rich (Trojan), and our new Leader team at Spartans (thanks Mike B (DLV )for support in encouraging volunteers, and to these people for being so positive) – David, Kev, Andrea, Helen, Rob, Maria and Richard, who’ve joined Alan M, are settling in well and providing a really varied programme.

We’re looking to build bigger Leader Teams now at several units – if you’re inspired to get involved as a Leader, Outdoor Instructor, or to help with admin, and want to know more – please call for a chat…

Martin Taylor

District 14-24 Lead Volunteer 07765 283300

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PROGRAMME SUPPORT REPORT:

During 2023 the Programme Support Team became more established. Most roles are now filled as follows:

Team Leader – Steve Richmond
Adventurous Activities – Tom Grindey
Nights Away – Ian Mackintosh
Top Awards – Ross Massie
SAS (General) – Angela Raval
SAS (Communications) – Martin Wheeler
D of E Coordination – Holly Platt Wells
District Events – Sally Ward
International – To be confirmed.

It is hoped that the appointment of a Team Lead for International will be confirmed in 2024. This will enable us to start planning for the next World Scout Jamboree and a parallel international event for the district in 2027.

During 2023 the team supported the district by planning and delivering a range of events including but not limited to:

Macc. Hike
Patrol Challenge
International events
D of E expeditions
Nights away and other adult training events.
District delivered adventurous activities including climbing, abseiling, walking, kayaking, bell boating, caving, shooting and archery to name a few.

There has been a good return to youngsters and adults attaining top awards, including our first Kings Scout awards and several Wood badges.

A good number, although it would be great to see more, adults obtained activity and nights away permits during the year.

The process for approving adventurous activities has become well established. The team are now routinely providing a service to review risk assessments and external suppliers in order to facilitate the delivery of a wide range of activities and residential events.

In 2024 the team aim to fully develop their 5-year vision, aligned to the district vision and support groups across the district to deliver more safe, exciting and developmental programmes.

Steve Richmond

District Programme Support Team Lead Volunteer

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PEOPLE REPORT:

Welcome and Appointments:-

None of the scouting activities in Macclesfield and Congleton could take place without adult volunteers, and all our volunteers need to be brought into the Scouting family following proper process. The district appointments committee carry out this essential but often unseen work, making sure that volunteers feel welcomed, are properly informed about the role they have agreed to take on, and that the role is the right fit for them.

In 2023, the Appointment Committee members continued to develop the shift from “Appointment” with its formal overtones to less formal “Welcome conversations” whilst still covering the essential elements of the existing process. New adult volunteers are offered a choice of dates to meet committee members and a choice of medium: either face to face or via Zoom as best suits their personal circumstances. The committee are commended for their hard-work and dedication making sure welcome conversations are carried out in a timely manner, especially for their support in recruiting new teams to explorer units around the district, with seven new volunteers at once in one unit! In total, the appointments committee welcomed over 80 adult volunteers either into new roles or re-starting Scouting after a break or relocation this year.

As Scouts UK has delayed transformational changes to the Welcome process, thanks are due to the appointments committee for keeping the show on the road while we wait for further information from UK headquarters, and for anticipating the shift in formality proposed by Scouts UK with their flexible approach to Welcome. The committee would like to thank Diana Stafford for her help behind the scenes managing references and systems.

Adult Learning:-

Macclesfield and Congleton District continues to demonstrate its capability to deliver Scouting in a safe and compliant way through its commitment to mandatory training. The district has continued to consistently achieve its compliance goal of over 98% of adult volunteers having completed or renewed safety and safeguarding modules before the due/expiry date.

We also have an excellent track record in completion of first aid training, with 96% of volunteers having completed module 10A and 10B training prior to expiry. This would not have been possible without the dedication of our First Aid Trainer – Ann Eden.

There are many changes on the horizon for adult learning, with the re-vamped core learning “My Roots” modules launching alongside the new digital system early in 2024. Wood badges will be gained by completing additional modules that are relevant to the needs of the volunteer. The wood badge will no longer be section specific (gain one wood badge regardless of change of roles) and will become optional – but still a high accolade demonstrating a high level of skill as a volunteer.

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Wood Badges – June 23 / May 24

The wood badge continues to be a symbol of excellence in adult leadership – awarded to volunteers who complete all the training modules required for their role. This is done through learning via a mixture of courses, online training and workbooks; and by validating the knowledge with a training adviser.

Congratulations to the following volunteers who gained their wood badge in the last 12 months:

Alan Firth Carl Reens Chris Evans Linton Foat Amy Shorley-Smith Matthew Hartley Jon Wright

AWARDS – June 23 / May 24

5 Year Long Service Award 15 Year Long Service Award Mark Alston James Bennett Andy Brammer Martin Hardy Anna Burke Jo Pater Geoff Cook Lesley Rodgers Gill Davies Amy Shorley-Smith Sarah Dean Heather Tebay Mandy Finch Linton Foat 20 Year Long Service Award Vicky Gostelow Claire Halsey Dave Hulse David Jones Ian Humphrey Mildred Ross Fred Marshall Claire Moores 25 Year Long Service Award Hannah Scott Richard Hodges Louise Sheridan Jane Johnson George Ventris Ben Ward 40 Year Long Service Award Mark Eden 10 Year Long Service Award Diana Stafford Andrew Aitchison Helena Binder David Bradshaw Barry Bridge Chris Fenton Roger Lomas Joanne Lund Carl Reens Marion Tugwood Nicola Wood Jon Wright

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District Commissioner

Commendation for Good Service

Jessica de Sousa Joe Lomas Martin Taylor Eli Stewart (Beaver Scout, 1[st] Rainow) Phoebe Burdock (Beaver Scout, 1[st] Rainow)

Award for Merit Alan Firth yw Bar to the Award for Merit

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Commendation for Good Service

Victor Crawford Mike Fennell Paul Green Elizabeth Grindon Ruth Linde Roger Lomas Peter Nash Edward Parrish Dave Pegg Malcolm Wood

Silver Acorn Heather Millington

Bar to the Silver Acorn

King’s Scout Award Ben Anderson Thomas Sheridan Thomas Gillman

Elizabeth Insley

District People Team Lead Volunteer

Mike Brown

District Learning Lead Volunteer

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RESOURCES REPORT:

Headquarters:

1. Compliance report HQ

The current status of all internal and external service, checks and reviews are up to date and are shared with the Trustees at Each meeting.

All keyholders have received the building safety brief and fire extinguisher training links and signed they have received this.

2. Equipment.

During the year, we created a recruitment resource for the District which has been used at a number of events locally. The kit from the closure of Prestbury Scouts was distributed across the district to where it is needed.

A list of activities and equipment held at HQ has been published on the District Website

3. HQ Building Condition

The building overall remains in good condition. The Trustees agreed that given the condition of the roof, a complete overhaul of the roof will be carried out in 2024. This will include stripping slates, removal of the chimney, re-felt and replacement of the slates. This was carried out in April 2024

4. Lettings report

A number of 3[rd] party groups used the building during 2023 which generated an income of £3,930. This level of income will not continue into 2024 as Petty Pool, who contributed £2,900 to this income have ceased to use the building.

Digital:

The District Website continues to be developed with additional resources uploaded and new pages created for events and activities.

The licence fees on the Bookalet system that is used for all the Barnswood bookings has significantly increased for 2024. Scout Websites is currently building their own system and we will be part of the beta testing however the current level of costs for the booking system will remain at the current level even when this goes live.

District Shop:

Steve Blackburn continues to do a good job running the district shop based at HQ with openings every Tuesday evening. The shop continues to support scouting in Macclesfield and Congleton and contributed £3,000 back into district funds in 2023.

2023-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Friday 5 July 2024 @ 7.30 PM BARNSWOOD CAMPSITE AGENDA

3. Governance topics :

4. Review of the previous year :

5.

Making appointments :

6. Closing Remarks

MACCELSFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL

FOREWORD

Mark Eden

District President

2023 AGM MINUTES

MACCLESFIELD & CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUTS COUNCIL

MINTUES OF THE DISTRICT AGM HELD ON Friday 16 June 2023 @ Barnswood Campsite

Apologies:

Approval of 2022 Minutes:

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Chairman’s Address:

Treasurer’s Report:

Election of Officers:

Election of District Board of Trustees:

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Approval of Independent Examiner

DLV’s address:

DLV nominations for member to the District Executive Committee:

Election of a Scouter from a Group to represent the District at the County Scout Council:

County Commissioner Update

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Awards:

AOB:

CONSTITUTION 2024

Preamble

The District Scout Council and the District Trustee Board

5.5.4. The District Scout Council - membership

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5.5.5. District Scout Council - Annual General Meeting

5.5.5.2 The AGM must:

c) Make appointments

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5.5.6. District Trustee Board - purpose SV

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5.5.7. District Trustee Board - membership SV

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5.5.8. District Scout Council - Conduct of meetings

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5.5.9. District Trustee Board - Conduct of meetings

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FINANCE REPORT:

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

District and Shop

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2023

Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the year

COUNTY REPORT:

A year of achievement

Each year I look back with nothing but pride at what we’ve achieved together. This year, I truly believe we’ve more to be proud of than ever.

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CHAIRS REPORT:

Alex Fletcher

DISTRICT LEAD VOLUNTEERS REPORT:

We are THE Choice for Fun, Safe Adventures and Experiences that give Skills For Life to all Young People and Adults.

What does this mean?

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Mike Brown

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CAMPSITE REPORT: