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2024-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Friday 26 June 2026 @ 7.30 PM BARNSWOOD CAMPSITE AGENDA

  1. Introduction & Welcome

  2. Apologies for absence

3. Governance topics :

4.

Review of the previous year :

5. Making appointments :

6. Closing Remarks

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

MACCELSFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL

2025 ANNUAL REPORT

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL, CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

Contents

FOREWORD: ................................................................................................................................. 4 AGM MINUTES: ........................................................................................................................... 5 CONSTITUTION: ....................................................................................................................... 11 CHAIRS REPORT: ..................................................................................................................... 24 COUNTY REPORT: .................................................................................................................... 25 DISTRICT LEAD VOLUNTEERS REPORT: ......................................................................... 29 CAMP REPORT: ......................................................................................................................... 33 4-14 REPORTS: ......................................................................................................................... 34 14-25 REPORT: ......................................................................................................................... 35 PROGRAMME SUPPORT REPORT: ...................................................................................... 36 VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT REPORT: ............................................................................. 39 RESOURCES REPORT: ............................................................................................................ 42

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

FOREWORD:

2025 has been a difficult year for Scouting in general, as new essential diktats have been issued from HQ for local districts to implement. Through perceptive foresight and meticulous planning by the Core Team and Trustees Macclesfield and Congleton District have been ahead of the game and things have progressed relatively smoothly.

The “new” IT systems that have been introduced still have significant glitches which required operational workarounds and tolerance from all parties. The “can do” and cooperative ethos in the district have ensured that excellent Scouting has continued unabated.

The year has seen the bedding in of a new trustee board and it is now working both efficiently and effectively making use of the external experiences and knowledge that the new members have brought. Special thanks go to the departed chairman, Alex Fletcher, for both his steering towards implementation of the Xero accounting system and induction of the new Chairperson, Louise Sheridan.

Please take time to read the reports. People have taken time to write these in addition to all the other activities they do to keep this district among the best in the country.

If you can’t make the time, here is a summary; Macclesfield and Congleton District

I invite you to share my pride in all that is done in this district in the name of Scouting, and continue to help it continue.

Mark Eden

District President

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

AGM MINUTES:

MACCLESFIELD & CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUTS COUNCIL

MINUTES OF THE DISTRICT AGM HELD ON Friday 11 July 2025 @ Barnswood Campsite

1. Introduction and Welcome:-

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

There were approximately 20 people in attendance.

2. Apologies for absence:-

Apologies were received from Becky Heyes, Ben Jacobs, Mike Fennell, Christine Scott, Diana Stafford, Ian Blore, Paul Nichols, Ian Mackintosh, Neil & Marge Dutton, Steve Blackburn, Martin Hardy, Daniel Inman, Richard Hodges, David Garton, Jill Scarlett, Martin Wood, Piotr Kula and Mike Brown.

Alex Fletcher explained that in Mike Brown’s absence he will cover the parts of the meeting usually led by the District Lead Volunteer.

3. Governance Topics:-

a) Approval of the minutes for the 2024 AGM:

The minutes were approved by the Board of Trustees at their meeting on 22 July 2024.

The minutes were approved by the District Scout Council as a true record of the AGM meeting on 5 July 2024 with Neil Raval seconding the proposal by the Chair.

b) Adoption of the District Constitution:

In line with Scout Headquarters, the District Trustee Board proposes to adopt the model constitution from Chapter 5 of POR. A copy of the constitution was provided in the annual report.

Alex Fletcher proposed the adoption of the District Constitution.

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

The District Constitution was adopted with Mark Eden seconding the proposal.

c) Note the District’s financial year:

Alex Fletcher asked the District Scout Council members to note that our Charity’s year is 1 January to 31 December.

d) Approve appointed and community members of the District Scout Council:

Alex Fletcher highlighted that the District Scout Council can admit other people to members. These are to be admitted as members of the District Scout Council as well as the ex officio list in POR Rule 5.5.4.

e) Agree the number of members appointed to Trustee Board:

Alex Fletcher highlighted that good practice within POR states that the District Trustee Board should have a minimum of 5 and no more than 12 Trustees in total, including ex-officio and co-opted Trustees.

The District Scout Council were asked to agree the number of people to be appointed to the Trustee Board. The Trustee Board recommended that 9 people are appointed to the District Trustee Board.

The number of members was agreed by majority vote.

f) Agree quorum for future meetings of the District Scout Council (excluding AGMs):

The District Scout Council must agree its quorum. The Trustee Board recommends the quorum should be set at 3 people which will be increased to 4 if 1 or 2 District Youth Leads joins the Board.

The quorum numbers were agreed by majority vote.

4. Review of the previous year:-

Alex Fletcher proposed that this part of the meeting reflects on the District activities of the past year.

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

In Mike Brown’s absence, Alex Fletcher highlighted the following from the District:-

a) Consideration of the Annual Report, including annual statement of

accounts:

Alex Fletcher invited the District Treasurer, Dave Bird, to provide an explanation of the Statement of Accounts which were available at the meeting.

It was stated that this has been a year of adjustment to orientate his knowledge of our finances and that the Board are trying to future proof the District accounts, by:-

It was confirmed that the accounts have been well scrutinised by the independent examiner with the accounts being signed off on Monday 7 July.

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

Alex echoed the voice of the Trustees and acknowledged that Dave took on a hard task and thanked our independent auditor for all his hard work helping us to bring the accounts together.

Neil Raval highlighted that the highest risk on the District Risk Register is the Barnswood income and stressed that there is a need to encourage groups across the District to use the campsite.

It was also noted that having the bookkeepers has worked well. However it was noted that greater transparency of payments is still required for those running events. It was confirmed that this will be resolved with the new accounting system.

County Representative Presentation:

The Country Representative, Val Thompson, provided the County’s highlights over 2024:-

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

Val thanked everyone for all they do within their Groups, District and for Cheshire and hopes it continues into the next year.

5. Making appointments:

Alex Fletcher explained that this part of the meeting will be used to appoint members to the District Trustee Board to oversee good governance of our charity over the next year.

a) Appoint District Chair:

Alex Fletcher, in Mike’s absence, recommended that Louise Sheridan be appointed as District Chair for a 1 year term. Approved

b) Appoint District Treasurer:

Alex Fletcher explained that we are not required to appoint the District Treasurer as Dave Bird is still part way through his term. He did highlight that we will be looking to expand the finance team with an accountant role.

c) Appoint members of the District Trustee Board:

This was not required based on terms still to be served.

Alex Fletcher highlighted that we will be electing two co-opted members to the Board:-

d) Appoint District President:

It was noted that this was not required this year.

e) Appoint Independent Examiner/Auditor:

It was confirmed that Jack Paton was our independent auditor last year. However, due to his work helping us with the accounts this year we will need to appoint an independent auditor for the 2024 accounts.

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

Alex Fletcher proposed that Jack Paton should continue however with the role of independent examiner to approve accounts for 2025.

Jack Paton was re-appointed as the Independent Examiner of the District accounts for 2025 by majority vote.

f) Nominate representatives to County Scout Council:

Alex Fletcher asked for District representatives to the County Scout Council and noted that whilst we do not have volunteers at the time of the meeting, a communication will be sent around the District asking for representatives.

6. Closing Remarks

Alex thanked everyone for attending and for everything they do within the District and stated that he can see the impact it has on the young people in our District.

He brought the meeting to a close.

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

CONSTITUTION:

5.4.1 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.

5.4.2 The Scout Council - membership

5.4.2.1 The Scout Council is the body which has charity governance responsibility for Scouting in the Group, District or County. The Trustee Board is accountable to the Scout Council.

5.4.2.2 Membership of the Scout Council does not provide membership of the Scouts.

5.4.2.3 There are four categories of membership of each Scout Council:

5.4.2.4 A Secretary must ensure that nominated and co-opted Scout Council Members are recorded in the minutes of the Scout Council meeting which is normally the Annual General Meeting. Nominated and co-opted Scout Council members must not be recorded on The Scout Association’s membership system.

Ex officio Scout Council members must not be recorded as Scout Council Members on The Scout Association’s membership system.

5.4.2.5 Group Scout Council membership

The ex officio members of the Group Scout Council are:

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

The nominated members of the Group Scout Council are other supporters of the Group appointed by the Group Scout Council on the recommendation of the Group Scout Leader and the Group Trustee Board. The number of nominated members must not exceed the number of ex officio members.

A nominated member of the Group Scout Council must be appointed for a fixed period not exceeding three years. Subsequent reappointments are permitted.

5.4.2.6 The County Commissioner has a right of attendance at all Group Scout Council meetings in the County.

5.4.2.7

District Scout Council membership

The ex officio members of the District Scout Council are:

The nominated members of the District Scout Council are other supporters of the Group appointed by the District Scout Council on the recommendation of

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

the District Commissioner and the District Trustee Board. The number of nominated members must not exceed the actual number of elected members.

A nominated member of the District Scout Council must be appointed for a fixed period not exceeding three years. Subsequent reappointments are permitted.

5.4.2.8 County Scout Council membership

The ex officio members of the County Scout Council are:

The nominated members of the County Scout Council are drawn from these four categories:

The number of persons nominated annually to the County Scout Council from each of the above categories is decided by the County Scout Council at their

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

Annual General Meeting. The number of Nominated Members must not exceed the number of ex officio members.

Nominated members of the District Scout Council must be appointed for a fixed period not exceeding three years. Subsequent reappointments are permitted.

The County Scout Council may co-opt members at their Annual General Meeting. Such co-opted members may include representatives of organisations with whom it is desired to maintain co-operation. For example Girlguiding, religious bodies, schools or Education Authorities, Parish or Local Authorities, and other youth organisations.

Co-opted members are nominated by the County Commissioner. They are not required to be members of the Scouts.

The number of co-opted members must not exceed the total of ex officio and nominated members.

Co-opted (and other) members of Council have no membership status within Scouts (see 5.4.2.2).

5.4.2.9 Membership of the Scout Council ends upon:

5.4.3 Scout Council - Annual General Meeting

5.4.3.1 Each Scout Council must hold an Annual General Meeting within six months of the end of the charity’s financial year.

5.4.3.2 The Annual General Meeting must:

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ. 

        - meetings of the Scout Council

        - meetings of the Trustee Board

        - meetings of any sub-Committees

5.4.3.5 Following each Annual General Meeting, the Secretary must ensure that:

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

  1. all nominated or elected Trustees are recorded on the membership system, as required by Rule 16.1.3

  2. the Trustee Annual Report and Accounts are filed as described in Rule 5.5

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

5.4.3.6

Governance roles must be distinct to help manage conflict of interest. This means that the roles of Chair and Treasurer must not be combined in any way.

5.4.4 Trustee Board - purpose

This rule reflects the Trustee Board responsibilities until the point of the County’s transition (in November 2023 or February 2024). From the point of transition, some of the Trustee Board responsibilities transfer to the

appropriate Support Team or function – these changes will show in the October 2023 edition of POR.

The 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.

5.4.4.1 Members of the Trustee Board must act collectively as charity trustees of their charity, and in the best interests of the charity’s members. SV

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

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

5.4.4.3 The Trustee Board members must themselves collectively:

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

5.4.4.4 A Group Trustee Board must also:

5.4.4.5 A District Trustee Board must also:

5.4.4.6 A County Trustee Board must also:

5.4.4.7 A Trustee Board may create sub-committees to manage the work it deems necessary ensuring that:

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

Members of sub-committees are not Trustees unless they are members of the Trustee Board.

5.4.4.8 In support of effective governance:

5.4.5 Trustee Board - membership

5.4.5.1 Subject to the conflict of interest rules (see Chapter 16 and the definition of ‘conflict of interest in the Definitions chapter), a Trustee may be a member of more than one Trustee Board.

5.4.5.2 Ex officio, nominated, elected and co-opted members of the Trustee Board are charity Trustees of the Group, District or County as appropriate.

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

5.4.5.3 Certain people are disqualified from being charity trustees by virtue of the Charities Acts. (See rule 16.1.1.5).

5.4.5.4 Some Groups, Districts and Counties may also need to register as a charity. (See Rule 13.1.2). SV

5.4.5.5 All Trustees must complete training as specified in Rule 16.2.1 and the Roles Table.

5.4.5.6 At County and District, all Trustee Boards and any sub-committees should, wherever possible, have as full voting members at least two people aged between their 18th and 25th birthdays.

Groups are encouraged to follow this good practice wherever possible.

5.4.5.7 The Group Trustee Board

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

to the AGM (in writing or orally at the meeting) that they are willing to be an ex officio member of the Group Trustee Board. (See also the introduction to Rule 4.6.)

The Explorer Leader (if stated in a Partnership Agreement), subject to that Explorer Leader expressly indicating to the AGM (in writing or orally at the meeting) that they are willing to perform such a function.

5.4.5.8 The District Trustee Board

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

jointly by the role holders in consultation with the District Commissioner and the District Chair.

5.4.5.9 [Replaces 5.5.2.9 from the January 2023 POR]

The County Trustee Board

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

5.4.5.10 If a Trustee Board Chair, Secretary (if appointed as a Trustee) or Treasurer resigns, then rule 16.6.3 must be followed.

5.4.6 Trustee Board - Conduct of meetings

5.4.6.1 Only members of a Trustee Board as defined in 5.4.5 may vote in meetings of the Trustee Board.

5.4.6.2 At its Annual General Meeting, the Scout Council must make a resolution defining a quorum for meetings of the Scout Council and the Trustee Board and its sub-Committees.

5.4.6.3 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.

5.4.6.4 In order to discharge their responsibilities, the Trustee Board may meet by telephone and/or video conference as well as face to face when agreed by the appropriate Chair. This includes ‘hybrid’ meetings, where some members join by telephone or video.

5.4.6.5 Electronic voting (such as email) is allowed for decision making of the Trustee Board when deemed appropriate by the Chair (for example, where a pressing matter arises between meetings). In such instances at least 75% of

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

its members must approve the decision, and the outcome of the voting must be reported and recorded in the minutes at the next Trustee Board meeting.

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

CHAIRS REPORT:

2025 has been a year of progress, growth and consolidation for Macclesfield and Congleton District Scouts. Building on strong foundations, the District has continued to expand its reach, strengthen governance and deliver high-quality Scouting to an increasing number of young people. It has been a privilege to serve as District Chair this year and to work alongside so many committed volunteers.

Growth and Development

The District has continued to see positive growth , with particular success in the expansion of Squirrels , allowing us to offer Scouting to younger children and engage families earlier in their Scouting journey. This growth reflects both strong local demand and the dedication of our volunteers. Overall membership trends remain encouraging, ensuring Scouting continues to thrive across Macclesfield and Congleton.

Programme, Events and International Scouting

A strong and varied District programme has been delivered across all sections this year. Key events such as Macc Hike once again brought together young people and leaders from across the District, showcasing teamwork, challenge and adventure at its best.

International Scouting has developed significantly with the establishment of a District International Team, providing greater focus and support for international opportunities. Looking ahead, preparations for the District Jamboree Unit for Poland 2027 , with selection of the team, offering an exciting and aspirational opportunity for our young people and adult volunteers.

Trustees, Governance and Finance

The benefits of the completed Transformation Programme continue to be evident, with Trustee Boards operating confidently and effectively at both Group and District level. I would like to thank all Trustees for their support during my first year as Chair. We are fortunate to have a committed team, with everyone making a positive contribution to the District.

Special thanks go to our outgoing Trustees, David Bird and Neil Raval , for their significant contribution to the District. David has carried out the demanding role of Treasurer with professionalism and care, while Neil’s insight, experience and leadership, particularly through the Transformation Programme, has been invaluable.

I am pleased to report a positive and sustained financial position at Barnswood , with reduced reliance on external income following the end of the Entrust partnership. This year has demonstrated that the site can operate on a stable and sustainable footing while remaining a vital District asset and enabling continued investment in the site and District HQ. District financial processes continue to develop, and the introduction of Xero has been a major achievement and is expected to simplify systems further into 2026.

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

Thanks and Leadership

I would like to record my sincere thanks to Alex Fletcher for his outstanding contribution as District Chair. His leadership through a period of significant change has left the District well positioned for the future.

We will also be sorry to see Mike Brown step down as District Lead Volunteer. Mike has provided exceptional leadership and will be hard to replace. We look forward with interest to welcoming his successor and continuing to build on the strong foundations already in place.

Looking Ahead

The introduction of a new Assurance Framework and the national strategy provide a positive and structured direction for the future of Scouting in the District. Alongside these opportunities, we recognise the ongoing challenge of maintaining a strong volunteer base. Volunteer recruitment, development and retention will remain a continued focus to ensure every section is well supported and able to deliver a safe and high-quality programme.

Closing

My sincere thanks go to every volunteer, trustee, leader, parent and supporter who contributes to Scouting across Macclesfield and Congleton. Your commitment ensures that young people continue to access meaningful opportunities, challenge and adventure.

Louise Sheridan

District Chair Macclesfield and Congleton District Scouts

COUNTY REPORT:

A Year of Adventure

What a year it’s been. Across Cheshire, thousands of young people have found fun, friendship and adventure, thanks to the incredible effort of our volunteers. As we bring the Skills for Life strategy to a close and look ahead to a brand-new chapter for Scouts, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who makes Scouting happen week after week.

This year, our youth membership grew again, up 1.1% to 9,752 young people, supported by over 3,300 amazing volunteers. That’s an achievement we should all be proud of.

Early Years Thriving and Sections Growing

Our biggest growth this year came from our Early Years programme. Squirrels has gone from strength to strength with 52 Dreys now open, including 17 launched this year. It’s wonderful to see so many 4–6 year olds joining the movement and

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

beginning their Scouting journey. Scouts and Explorers have stayed broadly the same in size, while Beavers and Cubs saw a small decline, despite very long waiting lists.

Our overall waiting list sits at 2,117 young people, including 654 Squirrels, 594 Beavers and 507 Cubs. Helping more young people join, especially in Beavers and Cubs, remains a key priority for next year.

A Year Packed with Adventure

2025 has been one of our busiest and most exciting programme years ever.

Cheshire Hike: bigger than ever

Our flagship event saw 720 young people walk an incredible 27,000km, that’s over 40 million steps, with support from 300 volunteers. It was an inspiring achievement from everyone involved.

International adventures everywhere

This year was officially our biggest year of Visits Abroad, ever: 329 young people, 115 adults, over half a million kilometres travelled. Trips included: 10 visits to Kandersteg (KISC); Adventures in the Azores, Norway, and Dublin; And a brilliant showing at the World Scout Moot in Portugal, with 20 participants and 2 IST.

We also launched our plans for the World Scout Jamboree in Poland and other international opportunities in 2027, which will open up even more opportunities for Cheshire Scouts.

Taking part in national moments

We were proud to see Cheshire represented at VE Day 80 at Horse Guards Parade, attended by His Majesty the King, a truly memorable occasion.

Two Cheshire members also performed in the National Scout & Guide Symphony Orchestra & Concert Band, showcasing their incredible talent on a national stage.

Delivering an Adventurous and Inclusive Programme

Early Years and Section Growth

Our growth this year has come predominantly from Squirrels, reflecting the continued success of Early Years Scouting. We now have 52 Squirrel Dreys, including 17 opened this year, giving more 4–6 year olds the chance to experience fun, friendship and adventure.

Numbers in Scouts and Explorers have remained broadly stable, while Beavers and Cubs saw modest declines despite heavy demand, making volunteer recruitment and section support a priority for 2026.

Waiting Lists

Our waiting list remains high and broadly unchanged at 2,117 young people, including: 654 Squirrels, 594 Beavers, 507 Cubs.

This demand demonstrates how much young people want to belong to Scouting and how essential our focus on volunteer growth will be in the coming year.

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

Celebrating Young People and What They Achieve

This year, we’ve recognised over 300 Top Awards, including many Chief Scout’s Awards.

A special congratulations goes to our 11 King’s Scouts, who took part in the prestigious Windsor Parade.

Our Duke of Edinburgh’s Award participants also had a fantastic year, achieving: 71 Bronze Awards, 42 Silver Awards, 21 Gold Awards.

Our Young Leaders continue to excel and once again exceeded target, showing the strength of youth leadership across Cheshire.

Reaching More Young People Than Ever

Through the Under-Represented Communities Fund, we have now opened 20 new sections across two years, helping bring Scouting to communities where it hasn’t always been available.

We’re pleased that this project has been extended into next year, with an even wider focus including re-energising existing sections and supporting inclusive growth across all communities, not just those in IMD 1–3 areas.

Our ethnicity profile remains the same: 5% of young people and 1% of volunteers are from an ethnic minority background. We know we have more to do to make our volunteer teams better reflect the young people we serve.

Celebrating and Supporting Our Volunteers

Our volunteers make everything possible, and 2025 has been a standout year for volunteer development and recognition.

Four Cheshire volunteers received national honours, an amazing achievement

Training and skills at scale

Volunteers completed: 18 Section Wood Badges, 7 Manager Wood Badges, 68 First Response courses plus 8 blended courses, and 143 Adventurous Activity Permits gained.

This training reflects the passion and commitment of our volunteers to support young people safely and confidently.

We also continued to support leaders through the national changes to volunteering and digital tools, with more volunteers becoming confident in using the new systems as ongoing improvements rolled out through the year.

Serving our communities

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

Volunteers played a huge part in major community events, including the Royal Cheshire Show and delivered another successful Foster Carers Activity Day, giving children in care a brilliant taste of Scouting.

Looking Ahead: Big Celebrations, Big Adventures and a Big New Strategy

2026 is shaping up to be an incredibly exciting year for Cheshire Scouts.

Chamboree 2026

We cannot wait to welcome thousands of young people from across the UK and the world to Chamboree, our international Scout and Guide Jamboree hosted right here in Cheshire.

Preparations are well underway and excitement is building.

Birthday celebrations

Next year brings some big milestones: Squirrels turn 5, Beavers turn 40, Cubs turn 110. There are wonderful opportunities to celebrate Scouting’s history and look ahead to its future.

Explorer Programme refresh

Explorers will see more of the refreshed programme rolled out, with redesigned badges, new challenge awards (including a Values Award), and a stronger youth-led approach

26in26 for Scout Network

Our 18–25 year olds can take on 26in26, a national year of challenges, adventures and skill-building designed to help Network members try new things and take the lead.

A New National Strategy

2026 also marks the start of the Scouts’ new Strategy called Place to Belong, setting the direction of the movement up to 2035, alongside the first Three-Year Plan (2026– 2028). The new strategy focuses on two big priorities:

  1. An adventurous and inclusive programme

  2. More outdoors, more adventure, and a programme where every young person belongs and thrives.

  3. Better support for volunteers

  4. Simpler roles, better tools and learning, and less admin so volunteers can focus on what they love.

With the following aims for 2035:

It’s exciting, ambitious and perfectly aligned with the direction we’re already heading here in Cheshire.

Thank You

MACCLESFIELD AND CONGLETON DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL,

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

2025 has been an unforgettable year. From record-breaking hikes and international adventures to national celebrations, outstanding volunteer recognition and incredible achievements from our young people, Cheshire Scouts has once again shown the very best of Scouting. To every volunteer, young person, parent, partner and supporter: thank you. Together, we will continue giving young people a place to belong, a place to explore, and a place to thrive.

Dave Hopley

County Lead Volunteer

DISTRICT LEAD VOLUNTEERS REPORT:

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scouts – building a “Place to Belong”.

The last 12 months have been defined by one thing above all else: keeping every young person and volunteer safe. Safety and safeguarding remain our highest priorities, and the District has continued to demonstrate strong, proactive practice. Incidents have been well-managed, learning has been shared quickly, and leaders have shown real professionalism in responding to challenges. Our compliance picture is healthier than ever, with DBS, mandatory learning and first aid being actively monitored and improved. Thank you to Diana Stafford and Ann Eden for all the support given in this area.

This culture of vigilance is the foundation on which everything else this year has been built and it aligns directly with the Scouts’ national ambition to ensure every young person has a place to belong that is safe, fun and filled with adventure.

Programme: Adventure, Investment and a Strong Sense of Belonging

Thank you to Steve Richmond and the Programme Support Team for taking our district activity provision to the “next level” of safety, quality and availability.

Our programme delivery has been vibrant, varied and full of energy; the kind of Scouting that makes young people feel they truly belong. Across the District, young people have enjoyed climbing, abseiling, kayaking, sailing, bell-boating, navigation exercises, sleepovers, camps, JOTI/JOTA, MaccHike, Pinewood Derby and more. We have replenished our climbing equipment, ensuring our adventurous activities remain safe, modern and accessible.

The Programme Support Team has also worked hand-in-hand with the Barnswood Team to develop a robust plan for a “have-a-go” Target Sports Range at Barnswood, which Trustees will review with the ambition of delivering it ready for the 2027 season. This partnership embodies the national strategy’s focus on high-quality experiences and local collaboration.

Our Scout Active Support team continue to provide excellent support for community run activities as well as scouting activities; delivering a professional standard of

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communication using new and traditional technology, maintaining safety through marshalling, and promoting scouting through high visibility in the community in roles that provide immediate benefit.

A huge thank you to our 4–14 Team led by Tim Hope , and our 14–24 Team led by Martin Taylor . Their leadership, alongside the tireless work of our Group Lead Volunteers, Trustee Boards and Section Leaders , ensures that Scouting happens week in, week out. Their commitment is the reason more young people than ever are enjoying and benefiting from Scouting across our District.

The numbers prove it: our membership grew by 5.17% last year , significantly outperforming the national growth rate of 2% . This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the dedication of our volunteers.

Barnswood: A New Leadership Era and a Sustainable Future

This year marks a significant transition at Barnswood — one that strengthens our long-term sustainability. Val Hussein has taken on the role of Chief Warden, Graham Naismith now leads on Site Strategy and Geoff Smith continues to strengthen Operations and Safety.

With a commitment from every group to help warden one weekend a year, along with plans to make strategic investment in more suitable warden accommodation that is welcoming and family friendly, we have strong foundations to secure the longevity of the site. Thank you to all the Duty Wardens who have supported the site visitors over the last year, and of course the maintenance teams that work so hard to keep the space looking great, and most importantly safe foe everyone. If you have not visited Barnswood recently please do arrange to take a look.

We extend our sincere thanks to Mark Eden , who has handed over his operational responsibilities after more than five years of exceptional service. His leadership has shaped Barnswood into a safer, more resilient and more welcoming site. We are delighted that he will continue to serve on the District Trustee Board. His contribution has set Barnswood up for a long and successful future — a perfect example of the national strategy’s call for strong places and strong teams.

Explorers & 14–24: Growth, Stability and New Opportunities

The Explorer section led by Martin Taylor has seen real progress this year.

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With over 100 Explorers preparing for Chamboree; possibly the largest contingent in the County; we are living the national strategy’s ambition to reach more young people with life-changing experiences.

Youth Leadership: A Reinvigorated Network

Our youth leadership has taken a real step forward this year, particularly through a reinvigorated Scout Network section.

Macclesfield & Congleton Network have supported a county-wide Network gathering in January 2026; established regular meetings both in person and online for those away from home, and taken part in a growing range of activities including paintballing organised by our team for the whole county.

A huge thank you to Hannah Drennan for her energy, leadership and commitment to rebuilding Network into a thriving, youth-led community, supported by Ben Jacob, Ben Borg-Heffernan,Ben Anderson and Hannah Eccleston.

Volunteer Development: Our Most Important Challenge

The national strategy is clear: volunteers are the heartbeat of Scouting , and we must make volunteering easier, more supported and more rewarding.

Locally, this remains a key priority.

A special thank you to Elizabeth Insley , whose leadership has moved this work forward significantly through the introduction of welcome sessions, promotion and distribution of adult awards and representation of our best practice to County team.

Resources Team: The Unsung Heroes

Our Resources Team , led by Ian Mackintosh , quietly keep the “engine” running. From maintaining our website, to keeping the shop running smoothly, to providing a welcoming Tuesday evening drop-in space, to ensuring our District HQ is safe, professional and generating income through room hire… this team quietly keeps the District moving. His work helps keep our membership fees low and our facilities in excellent condition.

Thank you to Steve Blackburn, Diana Stafford, Trevor Mackay and Jill Scarlett for creating a genuine hub and a place to belong.

Growth, Challenges and Community Impact

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This year has brought both opportunities and challenges.

Looking Ahead: A Time for Reflection and Renewal

The Scouts’ new long-term strategy, “Place to Belong” , sets out a bold vision to 2035. It focuses on belonging, growth, volunteer experience and sustainable delivery. 2026–2027 is the perfect moment for our District to reflect, align and refresh our own direction as we continue on our 7 year “Journey to 2030”.

Over the last four years we have:

With this strong foundation in place, fresh eyes are now needed to take the District into its next chapter. I have shared with the district team and trustees that I have decided that I will not be renewing my term as District Lead Volunteer when it ends in February 2027. The search for the next DLV will begin at the appropriate time, led by our County Lead Volunteer, Dave Hopley . Over the remaining period of my term I will support recruitment and handover to ensure a smooth, confident transition. Of course, Scouting has something for everyone so I won’t be going too far away… for me, Macclesfield and Congleton District remains our Place to belong.

Mike Brown

District Lead Volunteer

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CAMP REPORT:

The big news is that Barnswood broke even financially despite losing the significant commercial letting by Entrust, owing to a change in government priorities. This balance has been achieved through diligent work by an expanding Friday maintenance team and a halt to any major development expenditure. Barnswood has also welcomed some new non-scouting bookings including a film crew and a commando training course. Non-district scout bookings have also significantly increased.

The Barnswood website now has a fresh new look. It is structured to meet potential users' information needs rather than what Barnswood wants to say. Go and have a look at https://www.mcscouts.org.uk/barnswood . Not only is it structured differently, it makes use of new technology. Try navigating a virtual walk through our buildings.

Many visitors have been impressed by the new appearance around the Wardens Lodge. That work is still ongoing. There have also been good comments on the appearance of the site; striped grass thanks to a contractor, no litter thanks to a culture of “see it, pick it up”.

The weather in 2025 had a few nasty surprises with very high winds, some very cold nights and rather more rain than desired. The preparations taken every winter meant that there was no impact from the cold. Also, Barnswood’s well-draining sites meant that it coped well with all the rain. The same cannot be said about the winds. They brought down over 100 healthy trees by uprooting them. It was all hands to the pump (well chainsaw) to make the site safe. At least we have plenty of wood for fires and shelter building.

For a few years now, I have reported that Barnswood needs to find additional wardens to cater for the increased usage. The group Lead Volunteers have agreed that each group will volunteer to warden one weekend during the high season. Training has been scheduled. This does not stop you joining one of our teams.

As this is the last Barnswood report that I will be writing, I am taking the opportunity to express my thanks to:-

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I have appreciated the time, energy and humour you have put in. It has been a pleasure working with you.

Mark Eden

Camp Lead

4-14 REPORTS:

The 4 – 14 Sub team have engaged with all Group across District in 2025, meeting Group Lead Volunteers via the termly District GLV meetings, and across each section via the termly District Squirrel, Beaver, Cub and Scout Leader meetings. We have helped to manage the sad situation of a staged closure of 1[st] Moss Rose Scout Group, with Notice of Beavers and Cubs closing being sent out just before Christmas. This is primarily due to ongoing challenges securing a leader team, coupled with dwindling numbers from that area of Macclesfield

Squirrels:

2025 has been a year of consolidation for Squirrels, with no new dreys opening. Most Groups with a drey have long waiting lists and are running with reduced numbers due to a lack of leaders. Other Groups in District have started to show an interest in opening a Squirrell Drey, but they are unable to generate enough interest from parents or volunteers to secure the required levels of leaders to open a drey. The District Squirrel team are working with the District Beaver team to plan a fun day in 2026 to celebrate the 5[th] Birthday of Squirrels and the 40[th] Birthday of Beavers which should be a fantastic celebration event at Barnswood

Beavers:

Beaver Coloneys across District continue to run near to capacity, with just a few groups having spaces. This situation will not be helped by the closure of 1[st] Moss Rose, but there are plans in place to ensure all 1[st] Moss Rose Beavers are secured a place in another Group. This challenging situation regarding spaces continues to be a great reflection that our programmes are exciting, relevant and adventurous for this age group. Whilst not as much of a challenge as in Squirrels, challenges remain securing the necessary levels of volunteers to enable Colonies to grow. The District camping events at Barnswood and the Abney Centre have once again proved very popular in 2025, as was the Beaver Challenge with 9 Colonies taking part. Beavers got to join in for a day at the Joti camp in October, and Dazzle the clown was a huge hit at the Christmas party too!

Cubs:

Cub Pack numbers across the District remain strong, and attendance at the termly District Cub meetings continues to reflect that Cubs is a strong section. There have been some reports of challenging behaviours, and this could be related to the effects of the Covid period. The Senior Cub camp and Pinewood Derby events run by the

CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

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District Cub team were both very popular again in 2025. The District Cub team have continued with their work in Groups across District to help build confident and strong leadership teams.

Scouts:

The District Scout meetings have continued through 2025, with great content, ideas sharing and we are seeing an increased level of support and attendance from the leaders across District. Scout numbers were low for the 2025 Macc Hike, but using the hut and grounds at 2[nd] Poynton enabled the hike to go ahead on a much-reduced budget. The training hikes and the event do a lot to build skills and resilience in the Scouts across our District. The District team is continuing to look at additional events for Scouts including a Scout Pinewood Derby, and more camping for 2026.

The District team continues to run termly GLV meetings. As was reported in 2024, the pressure for places and long waiting lists common for the younger sections. The Groups across District still struggle to secure a sufficient level of leaders to grow their sections, and the challenging behaviours are now more evident in the Cubs section. The new adult volunteer system continues to provide operational challenges, but it has started to settle in. Whilst not fully up to speed, most groups have now engaged with the new starter process, with many now having a Group welcomer, but this does still have to be complimented by events run by District.

Tim Hope 4-14 Team Lead

14-25 REPORT:

Another solid year in Explorers (14-17), the existing 6 Units (Maasai, Maori, Spartan, Titan, Trojan and Zulu) continued to provide a great variety of Activities, and also worked together to allow all Explorers the opportunity to camp at the District JOTI camps, and another very popular Service Camp at Barnswood. It’s a tribute to our Leaders that, when adult availability is short, Units will join together to run shared Unit nights – our Volunteers all work together as a District, and truly act as a single Team.

Thanks to all for this inclusive and proactive attitude.

2025 saw Scout-Explorer “Link” events provided by most units – for example the Zulu Barnswood Wide Game, Fire, Food and Fireworks evening has been running >20 years, with typically 5 Scout Troops attending, and all activities possible run by Explorers. Maasai Unit has joined recently as this evening has grown, and Titans are now running their own version, so Scouts get to see what Explorers are capable of!

Volunteers (Leaders) from every Unit support the Duke of Edinburgh scheme Expedition Training, Practice Hike and Qualifying Hike weekends run by Holly and Steve – without their help these could not happen. The District DofE provision is a very active part of Cheshire Scouts’ DofE programme – Explorers and Network

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members sign up through the District - we provide Expeditions, plus sanity checks and Approvals for the other DofE sections.

In 2025, we had 23 Bronze, 14 Silver, and 10 Gold DofE expedition participants, with even more signed up for 2026! The DofE awards lead directly to Scout Top Awards (Platinum, Diamond and King’s Scout Awards) so are a great opportunity for 14-24 year old Scouts to gain both awards.

Now, a big thank you to Paul Thompson for an excellent analysis of 10 year’s census data (provided by Diana Stafford). This showed we needed more District Explorer capacity, so we introduced a “waiting/allocation” process and, with Mike Brown’s support we recruited for a new Unit in Gawsworth in 2026 – more news next year, but since you may know of the new Valkyrie Unit, you can guess it’s been a success (and thanks to Amy, Heather, 1[st] Gawsworth and the new Unit members!)

We had 3 teams in Dragnet in 2025 (dragnet.org.uk ) – it’s a huge evasion challenge for experienced hikers, and our teams were excellent, 2 placing in the top 10 teams. Next year, we have 5 teams entered!

An example of outstanding swift thinking and action by an Explorer was in the actions of Jervis Brown, whose quick thinking and swift action probably saved his Grandad’s life when he fell down a slope into a river. Jervis was nominated for (and has received) the Gilt Cross – one of the top Scout bravery awards, and it was very well deserved – we should all get to see it at the next Remembrance Day parade!

Scout Network (18-24 year olds) has changed hands again, with Hannah Drennan taking over from Ephram Graves (thanks Ephram), and the District Youth Commissioners (the “3 Bens”) ably supporting. Regular meetings were proposed in 2025 and are now up and running, and a couple of Network events (including a weekend activity camp) were enjoyed by some District NW members in Autumn ’25.

So, loads going on – wonderful, active Young People who are up for a challenge, and a coherent adult team providing great opportunities. Come and join us!

Martin Taylor

14-25 Team Lead (martin.taylor@mcscouts.org.uk )

PROGRAMME SUPPORT REPORT:

The programme support team brings together sub teams which provide support to Groups and the District to help them deliver a broad, developmental and interesting programme across all age ranges. The team became well established during the period and now includes the following:

Programme Area Lead volunteer
Team Leader Steve Richmond
Nights Away Ian Mackintosh

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DofE Holly Platt Wells
Adventurous Activities Tom Grindey
Top Awards Ben Anderson
SAS–Communications Team Martin Wheeler
SAS–General Martin Wheeler
International Alex Fletcher

1. Nights Away

The Nights Away Team have been busy in 2025 supporting leaders to deliver safe and enjoyable overnight camping and sleepovers. In March, the team delivered a 2-day skills camp for 12 leaders to help them get their Nights Away Permits. The team also carried out 13 permit assessments for both new permits and renewal permits. The main challenge in 2025 was the move to the National Nights Away notification system and the appointment of a district Nights Away approver. We had to move back to local control of Nights Away notification whilst some issues were sorted out and we are now back on the national system. The team has met the challenges over the last 12 months and continues to support all Nights Away activities in the district in 2026. My thanks to all the Nights Away advisors for their continued input and help.

2. DofE

Last year the DofE team supported:

This year:

3. Adventurous Activities

The Adventurous Activities (AA) Team supported the delivery of many activities during the year. The most common activities being included in programmes are - Climbing, Walking, Mine Exploration, Target Sports & Dry Slope Skiing.

The AA approval process is very well established and covers activities provided by Scout Permit Holders and External Providers. Risk assessment and other appropriate documentation are being checked before approval of an activity is recommended. This

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ensures, to the best of our ability, that activities are delivered safely, to a high standard and with appropriate consideration of safeguarding requirements.

The team are now busy progressing plans to build a target sports range at Barnswood. This project is not fully sanctioned yet, but we are hopeful that it will be shortly and that construction can be completed in the near future.

4. District Events

Macc. Hike: This ever-popular event was safely and successfully delivered by a fantastic team of volunteers. Approximately 80 youth members completed a challenging hike over two days, carrying all the equipment they needed to camp and feed themselves. This is now a very established annual event. Good succession planning has been implemented within the core team, which should ensure the success of the event for many years to come.

Our cycle of District events will see the delivery of a Macc-Hike, a Beaver and Squirrel Fun Day and JOTA camp in 2026. There will be a District camp in 2027 – Watch out for details.

5. Top Awards

In District Celebration Events are being planned for all sections in 2026. Watch out for information and joining instructions from Ben.

6. SAS - Radio Comms Team

Over the last year many Scouting and External events were supported. The team do an excellent job of reaching out into the community providing communications or loaning equipment to a wide range of charities and events. In addition to providing practical support, this publicises the professional nature of Scouting and provides a positive revenue stream for equipment upkeep.

The District radios, GPS trackers and PA system are available to all groups via the contact details on the website.

7. SAS - General

The Scout Active Support Unit (SASU) has continued to assist with Scouting activities in the district with adult support to supplement regular leaders at events. There are approximately 30 people in the SASU membership.

8. International

A team is now well established and has started a series of annual events which will build a fund to support the delivery of international experiences open to all the young people in the district during their membership.

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The first of these was a highly successful whiskey tasting. This will shortly be followed by an opportunity for members to volunteer at a local steam fair, the organisers of which will then donate to the international fund. 9. General / Thank you

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Programme Support Team for everything they have done during the year. As you can see from the reports above, they are an amazing, diverse and talented group of volunteers who work together and with other members of the District to provide the youth members of our organisation with outstanding opportunities delivered in a safe and compliant manner.

Steve Richmond

Programme Support Team Leader

VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT REPORT:

Welcoming New Volunteers

Scouting wouldn’t happen without our volunteers. The quality of the welcome, training and on-going support and recognition each person receives is key to keeping adults in Scouting. So, this report opens by thanking all those who support new and less new volunteers in their Scouting journey. This is particularly experienced volunteers working in our local Groups as team leaders and Group Lead Volunteers.

In 2025 we continued to build the new Welcome process, so that we are able to provide Welcome Conversations for all new volunteers. 16 Welcome conversation volunteers were trained and accredited, representing 10 scout groups, with volunteers with District roles, including Explorer Scouting and Barnswood Team also accredited.

Welcome conversations have replaced the former Appointments Committees for sign-off off new volunteers. The new volunteer is met “where they are at”, often in their regular meeting place, for an informal conversation between their team leader and an external accredited Welcome Conversation Volunteer. The Scout Association has made it clear this is about checking the person is in tune with Scouting values, and a fit for the role. Those who have supported Welcome conversations so far have really enjoyed it, however we need to continue to train volunteers to get full coverage throughout the district.

Towards the end of the year, work began to take the welcome team into groups to sign off new volunteers with 13 volunteers across three groups welcomed this way. A District Welcome Event is planned for January 2026 and training dates to bring more Welcome Conversation Volunteers into the team.

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It has taken time for groups to understand the new system with so many other tasks driven by the Transformation.

Just after the end of the year, there were 63 individuals awaiting a conversation. While the number has steadied at around 65 each quarter there is still quite a lot of work to do to reach a steady state and build a sustainable model for joining up Welcome Conversation volunteers and people needing welcoming.

Elizabeth Insley

Volunteer Team Lead

AWARDS

Wood Badges:

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

Andrea Cartlidge Becky Heyes Hannah Eccleston

Long Service Awards:

Long Service Awards are awarded automatically when volunteers reach a milestone. Service is not always continuous. Good Service Awards are awarded to volunteers that go above and beyond in their volunteer role.

Nominations can be made by any volunteer by logging into the membership system at https://membership.scouts.org.uk/#/awards/nominatesomeone

5 years long service award: 10 years long service award:

Angela Raval Ben Amey Emily Parrish Huw Morgan
David Cusick Gillian Newcombe John Jackson Lynsey Franklin
Hannah Woolrich Heva Simpson Martina Crump Michael Nancollis
James Raval Karen Moss Nick Day Paul Johnson
Nathanael Cockburn Nicola Hill Sam Smith Victor Crawford
Paul Banford Richard Davies
Steve Massey Tricia Wheeler
15 years long service award: 20 years long service award: 20 years long service award:
Gavin Capper Gregory Wood Jules Skirvin Peter Forse
Janette Wood Jess Ewing
Richard Fieldhouse Ryan Bennett
Stephan Bird Tom Grindey

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

25 years long service award:

Daniel Smith Jane Wood Steve Richmond

30 years long service award:

Alan Wadley Mark Johnson Neil Owens Peter Skirvin

40 years long service award:

Jill Scarlett Kathy Walton

Recognition Awards:

Gilt Cross: Jervis Brown

District Commendation for Good Service:

Benjamin Plant

Award for Merit:

Holly Platt Wells Joanne Lund Martin Hardy Nicholas Phythian

Silver Acorn: Steven Blackburn

Silver Wolf: No awards this year

Marjorie Dutton MBE: Neil Dutton

Chief Scout Commendation for Good Service:

Ann Pocock George Ventris Grace Hampson Ian Pocock Gair Ford Paul Nichols Jim Cartlidge Martin Wheeler

Bar to the Award for Merit:

Neil Raval Richard Hodges Steve Richmond

Bar to the Silver Acorn Martin Taylor

King’s Scout Award: No awards this year

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CHARITY NUMBER 520227. Registered Address: 32 W Bond St, Macclesfield SK11 8EQ.

RESOURCES REPORT:

Building:

Lettings

The lettings on the building have built through 2025 with an increasing number of U3A groups using the facilities. In total, the lettings income for 2025 was £2,535 against £1,815 in 2024.

The cost of hiring the top floor had not increased for 4 years and as a result, the hire charge was increased from £10 per hour to £12 per hour for 2026.

Compliance

All the statutory and routine internal checks. external services and 3rd party audits were carried out throughout 2025 date for the building.

The Shop and Tuesday Team:

We established a group of leaders that will be at HQ on Tuesday evenings to welcome any visitors as well as to run the shop.

Steve Blackburn continues to provide a great service to the district by running the shop. The shop contributed £3,000 to the district from its trading in 2025

Thanks to the Tuesday team of Steve and Jane Blackburn, Trevor Mackay, Jill Scarlett and Diana Stafford for their contributions in 2025.

Digital:

National Membership System

We went live on the new National Membership system in Jan 25. Richard Hodges was the main contact between district and National HQ logging issues as they arose. Richard also ran training g sessions and workshops throughout the year to support users, particularly the GLV’s.

Website

The website continues to be our main face to the world and we are keeping this up to date and adding additional resources as requested by leaders. The updated version of the Barnswood Camsite pages in now live following a review during the year.

Microsoft 365

During 2025, the district went live with its Microsoft 365 installation. All District leaders, team members and trustees now have district email addresses. We also have a central digital filing system for all documentation that is backed up to the cloud.

Ian Mackintosh

Resources Lead

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Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Income 2024 2023 2022 Unrestrlcted funds Unrestrlcted funds Unrestrlcted funds Donatlon5, legacies and slmllar Income Membershlp 5vbs¢rlptlon$ recalved Les¥.' Memb¥rshlp sub5crlptlons pald on 7,422 66,972 70,342 14,9411 158,1591 153,0191 Net meryibershlp svbscrlptlons retalned 2,582 8,813 17,324 Donallon$ 60 1.205 Legacles Transfer from Closed Group5 Gllt Ald 6,962 323 2,178 8,498 1.780 584 Sundry Income Ment of HQ BuSldlng Is¢ Ald TrolnSng Fpgs Recelvod InGorne from Scoijtlng Acllvllles Sub total 340 3.730 800 1.290 450 B8,317 130,212 128,802 Grants Grants Ilnc Covld-191 Stsb total Fundra151ng (gr0551 V8rltsu¥ Fundralslng actlvllles Shop Sale5 500 5,334 4,217 1.717 15,B47 16,803 Sub total Investment Income Bank Interosl 1,782 1,522 4De Sub total rol41 Gr055 Income

Macclesfield & Congleton Distrlct Scout Councll Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2024 2024 2023 Total fund Expenditure 2022 Total funds Total funds harltsble Payments Youth programme an(t actlvltles Grants Made 1S,534 31.170 30.gB1 2S7 Jamboroe&- Worlfl & Eurolam Adult Support and tralnlng Wator 5,118 soo 116 13,427 2,7S3 26.541 121 396 386 Electrl¢lly and Gas Insurance 1S.067 6,184 2#,475 4,212 33,171 2,60 1.01U Repalis and Ren6wa15 ew Alarm & CCTV System New W&bslle Roplacement Audlo Vlsual Equlpment V¥aste Dlsposal Cleanlng Telephone Dlstrlct Admlnlstratlon Bsnk Charges Malor Improvemonl Prolects Depreclatlon ol Equlpment Sundry Expenses Sub total Fundralslng expenses Shop Purch35e$ Sub total rol81 Gross Expendlture Net of rec&lpts/{paymontsJ Transfers between funds Total funds last year ond Total fiinds th1$ year end 633 5.194 1,800 253 4.738 3.46S 939 4,762 3,116 2,973 262 3,125 314 82 14,200 44,192 23,309 5,936 11,606 3,909 4.570 14,551 15,211 37,110 41.423

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Incorne and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Statement of assets and Ilabilitie$ at the end of the year 31-Dec-24 Total funds 31-Dec-23 Total fund 31-Dec-22 Total fiinds Assets Cash funds Bank currttnt aGcount5 56,993 161,41S 1,566 49,414 140.S24 5,152 Is 63,431 117,219 3,173 131 Bank dgposll aceounls Shop Bank Account & Cash r.#Ah Total cash funds Other monetary assets DolJtDT& and Prepaymonts Sub total Non monetary assets for chaTity's own use Shop stock Other stock 13,339 7.754 8,700 6.000 2,600 JOD,000 6,000 1,500 3Q7.7fj5 Land and bulldlng5 Scuutlng equlpment, furnlture etc Sub total Total Assets Llabllitles 300,000 15,544 '4.*4Fi'.'IV, Accounts nol yet pald other Ilablllllgs. E¥plorBIs Sub lotal 4,452 8,002 4,612 e,002 990 Net Assets The funds of the charlty: Unre5trlcted funds General funds Total charity funds 527.695 527,695 504,590 504.590 508,903 508,903

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2024 In my opinlon, thèse flnanclal statèments glve a truè and fair vlew of the Macclesfleld & Congleton Dlstrlct Scout Councll flnanclal affalrs as at 31 Dècember 2024. Signature Print Name Dated T). Is .(. The aceounts have been 8udlted by Harts.The Treasurer has revlewed to conflrm the accounts are true reflectlon of the assets and Ilabllitles and the Chalr Is slgnlng on behalf of thè BOT on the basls of the checks by the audltor and Treasurer. The accounts wlll b• approved by thè Board at the Board meetlng 19 June 2026. Sion2liJm Print Name Dalcd Louise Sherldan, ChaiT 1010612026 Davld Bird. Treasurer 1010612026

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Income 2024 2023 2022 Unrestrlcted funds Unrestrlcted funds Unrestrlcted funds Donatlon5, legacies and slmllar Income Membershlp 5vbs¢rlptlon$ recalved Les¥.' Memb¥rshlp sub5crlptlons pald on 7,422 66,972 70,342 14,9411 158,1591 153,0191 Net meryibershlp svbscrlptlons retalned 2,582 8,813 17,324 Donallon$ 60 1.205 Legacles Transfer from Closed Group5 Gllt Ald 6,962 323 2,178 8,498 1.780 584 Sundry Income Ment of HQ BuSldlng Is¢ Ald TrolnSng Fpgs Recelvod InGorne from Scoijtlng Acllvllles Sub total 340 3.730 800 1.290 450 B8,317 130,212 128,802 Grants Grants Ilnc Covld-191 Stsb total Fundra151ng (gr0551 V8rltsu¥ Fundralslng actlvllles Shop Sale5 500 5,334 4,217 1.717 15,B47 16,803 Sub total Investment Income Bank Interosl 1,782 1,522 4De Sub total rol41 Gr055 Income

Macclesfield & Congleton Distrlct Scout Councll Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2024 2024 2023 Total fund Expenditure 2022 Total funds Total funds harltsble Payments Youth programme an(t actlvltles Grants Made 1S,534 31.170 30.gB1 2S7 Jamboroe&- Worlfl & Eurolam Adult Support and tralnlng Wator 5,118 soo 116 13,427 2,7S3 26.541 121 396 386 Electrl¢lly and Gas Insurance 1S.067 6,184 2#,475 4,212 33,171 2,60 1.01U Repalis and Ren6wa15 ew Alarm & CCTV System New W&bslle Roplacement Audlo Vlsual Equlpment V¥aste Dlsposal Cleanlng Telephone Dlstrlct Admlnlstratlon Bsnk Charges Malor Improvemonl Prolects Depreclatlon ol Equlpment Sundry Expenses Sub total Fundralslng expenses Shop Purch35e$ Sub total rol81 Gross Expendlture Net of rec&lpts/{paymontsJ Transfers between funds Total funds last year ond Total fiinds th1$ year end 633 5.194 1,800 253 4.738 3.46S 939 4,762 3,116 2,973 262 3,125 314 82 14,200 44,192 23,309 5,936 11,606 3,909 4.570 14,551 15,211 37,110 41.423

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Incorne and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Statement of assets and Ilabilitie$ at the end of the year 31-Dec-24 Total funds 31-Dec-23 Total fund 31-Dec-22 Total fiinds Assets Cash funds Bank currttnt aGcount5 56,993 161,41S 1,566 49,414 140.S24 5,152 Is 63,431 117,219 3,173 131 Bank dgposll aceounls Shop Bank Account & Cash r.#Ah Total cash funds Other monetary assets DolJtDT& and Prepaymonts Sub total Non monetary assets for chaTity's own use Shop stock Other stock 13,339 7.754 8,700 6.000 2,600 JOD,000 6,000 1,500 3Q7.7fj5 Land and bulldlng5 Scuutlng equlpment, furnlture etc Sub total Total Assets Llabllitles 300,000 15,544 '4.*4Fi'.'IV, Accounts nol yet pald other Ilablllllgs. E¥plorBIs Sub lotal 4,452 8,002 4,612 e,002 990 Net Assets The funds of the charlty: Unre5trlcted funds General funds Total charity funds 527.695 527,695 504,590 504.590 508,903 508,903

Macclesfield & Congleton District Scout Council Income and Expenditure Account For the Year Ended 31st December 2024 In my opinlon, thèse flnanclal statèments glve a truè and fair vlew of the Macclesfleld & Congleton Dlstrlct Scout Councll flnanclal affalrs as at 31 Dècember 2024. Signature Print Name Dated T). Is .(. The aceounts have been 8udlted by Harts.The Treasurer has revlewed to conflrm the accounts are true reflectlon of the assets and Ilabllitles and the Chalr Is slgnlng on behalf of thè BOT on the basls of the checks by the audltor and Treasurer. The accounts wlll b• approved by thè Board at the Board meetlng 19 June 2026. Sion2liJm Print Name Dalcd Louise Sherldan, ChaiT 1010612026 Davld Bird. Treasurer 1010612026