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URMSTON AND DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT 2024/2025

2025 DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL

Annual General Meeting

15th September @ 8pm

1[st] Davyhulme HQ

AGENDA

1. Introduction and welcome

2. Apologies for absence

3. Governance topics

a. Approve the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 10[th] September 2024
b. Adopt the model constitution from Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR)
c. Note the District’s financial year
d. Agree the number of members that may be appointed to the Trustee Board
e. Agree the quorum for future meetings of the District Scout Council (excluding this AGM)

Review of the previous year

a. The District Lead Volunteer’s review of Scouts during the last 12 months in Urmston and District
b. The County Lead Volunteer’s remarks
c. Receive and consider the Annual Report of the District Trustee Board, including the annual Statement of the Accounts

5. Making appointments

a. Re-appoint District President and Vice Presidents
b. Appoint the Independent Examiner
c. Nominate representatives of the District Scout Council to represent the District on the County Scout Council

Closing remarks

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD 1[ST] APRIL 2024 TO 31[ST] MARCH 2025

District President – Mr Chris Knowles

District Vice Presidents – Mrs Vera Crossley

Mrs Ellen McCaig

Charity name – Urmston and District Scout Council

Registered charity number – 520234

HQ registration number – 16809

Charity’s principal address – Mr William Outhwaite

5 Broadoaks Road, Urmston,

Manchester

M41 9DN

Names of the Charity trustees’ who manage the charity

Names of the Charity trustees’	who manage the charity
Trustee Name	Office	Dates acted if not for whole year
Bob Wilson	District Lead Volunteer ex- offico
Graham Barrick	District Chair - Appointed
Jenn Carline	District Treasurer – Appointed
IssyBrett	District Youth Lead ex-offico
William Outhwaite	Appointed
Connor O’Neill	Appointed
Derek Jones	Appointed
Carol Knowles	Appointed
AndySpear	Appointed
Hannah Wilson	Appointed
Chris Knowles	Co-opted	From 7thNovember 2024
Janet Pearce	Nominated	Until 10thSeptember 2024

Names and addresses of advisors

Type of advisor	Name	Address
Bank	Trustee Savings Bank	PO Box 373 Leeds LS14 9GQ
Bank	Barclays	1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP
Bank	Shawbrook Bank	The Drive Great Warley Brentwood Essex CM13 3BE
Independent Examiner	Mrs Elizabeth Armstrong	32 Westmorland Road, Urmston, Manchester M41 9HL

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of Urmston District Scout Council held on Wednesday 10[th] September 2024

Total attendees: 39 (see Appendix 1) Apologies: 9 (see Appendix 1) Meeting chaired by Graham Barrick – District Chair Minutes taken by Jackie Wilson – District Administrator

1. Introduction and welcome

Chair

The meeting opened to take a moment to remember those Scouters who gave so much for the benefit of young people in the District but have sadly ‘Gone Home’ in the last year.

Thank you.

Welcome and good evening, it’s always nice to see Leaders, Members, Explorer Scouts, and guests who have joined us this evening, especially Jacob Bond our Acting County Lead Volunteer and Andy Connellan from Wigan District, both of whom are regular attendees at our AGM.

On behalf of the District, I would like to offer a thank you to Andy Spear and 1[st] Davyhulme for the use of their HQ and facilities this evening.

Getting ready for change.

Scouts are making changes to volunteering so it’s easier and more fun.

Introducing a warmer welcome for everyone by redesigning the appointment process and introducing a welcome conversation. There will be an improved self-service for new volunteers.

Simplifying how we volunteer together with a team-based approach, allowing tasks to be shared, and a new digital tool for adult volunteers.

More accessible and engaging learning. A new digital learning tool, with personal and engaging content. Including new co-designed Safeguarding learning.

Before the end of 2024, we will move to digital tools and processes. It will be easy to use, mobile friendly, with fewer steps and less administration.

Webinars for volunteers have already started, and there will be more, prior to go-live of the new system. Alongside the live sessions will be a suite of guides on the website.

It’s important we remember the core of the volunteer experience transformation is about culture change.

From 1 April this year, Trustee Boards made changes to their membership. Doing this brought us in line with good practice guidance set by charity regulators. It also clarified our

purpose. Trustee Boards focus solely on the governance of the charity, not charity operations.

As Trustees we are volunteers who work together as charity trustees, to make sure Scouts is run safely and legally. We all have the same rights and responsibilities, have an obligation to ensure the Trustee Board meets legal requirements, and complies with the law.

There is, however, something that will not change, and that is what you do for young people week in week out, consistently, and safely delivering a great programme.

As volunteers in Scouts, I know you are proud to help young people. Thanks to you, young people find their place in the world, learn to believe in themselves.

We are all role models for our young people, so no matter what your experience is, or which team you are in, your time and skills help young people gain skills for life.

2. Apologies for absence

Chair:

We have received apologies from nine (9) people for their absence today and are detailed in appendix.

3. Governance topics

3a. Approve the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 12[th] September 2023

Chair:

The District Trustee Board have reviewed the minutes of the previous AGM at their meeting held on 12[th] December 20023. I put forward these minutes are taken as read and ask the District Scout Council to agree they are a true record of that meeting.

Seconded by Bill Outhwaite. A show of hands approved the minutes .

3b. Adopt the model constitution from Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR)

Chair:

In line with the recommendation from Scout Headquarters, the District Trustee Board proposed the adoption of the model constitution from Chapter 5 of Policy, Organisation and Rules. A copy of this was available for review and inspection prior to the meeting, and copies were also available on request.

Seconded by Jenn Carline. A show of hands approved the adoption of the model constitution from Chapter 5 of Policy, Organisation and Rules .

3c. Note the District’s financial year.

Chair :

The charity’s financial year is 1 April to 31 March.

3d. Approve appointed and community members of the District Scout Council

Chair:

The District Scout Council can admit other people to membership. However, there are no nominations for District Scout Council members.

3e. Agree the number of members that may be appointed to the Trustee Board

Chair:

Following good practice recommendations from the Charity Governance Code, POR states Trustee Boards should have a minimum of five (5), and no more than twelve (12), Trustees in total. This includes ex officio and co-opted Trustees.

The District Scout Council must agree the number of people to be appointed to the Trustee Board. The outgoing Trustee Board recommends that six (6) people are appointed. The Chair proposed the District Scout Council approves that recommendation.

Seconded by Simon Field. A show of hands approved the Chairs proposal.

3f. Agree the quorum for future meetings of the District Scout Council (excluding this AGM)

Chair :

The District Scout Council must agree its quorum – the minimum number of District Scout Council members that must be present at District Scout Council meetings. The outgoing Trustee Board recommends the quorum should be set at 15 people. The District Scout Council was asked to approve that recommendation.

Seconded by Daniel Easdon. A show of hands approved the Chairs proposal.

4. Review of the previous year

Chair:

We will now use this part of the meeting to reflect on the activities of the past year.

4a. The District Lead Volunteer’s review of Scouts in the Urmston District

Chair:

Bob Wilson, District Lead Volunteer presented his Annual Review and gave his thanks to all who volunteer within District and the support they have given in the last year. The latest census shows that numbers have steadily increased, as well as an increase in volunteers.

There is still more to do, and a growth plan has been submitted to the County Lead Volunteer.

A full District Team is now in place.

14-24 Lead – Simon Field
Youth Team Lead – Isabel (Issy) Brett
Programme Team Beavers – Michelle Millington/ Jemma Williamson
Programme Team Cubs – Becky Shaw
Programme Team Scouts – Dan Easdon
District Young Leader Unit – Bev Kerrs, Becca Easdon, Becky Shaw.

Bob expressed his thanks for all the hard work in running events in the past year, and the support provided to District, as well as enjoying time together which included a District trip to the Pantomime in December. During the last year as DLV, Bob has enjoyed presenting awards to our volunteers who have done an incredible job, without them nothing would be possible. The time and commitment given was recognised and additional thanks for everything they have and continue to do. The outlook for Urmston District is very positive.

In the past year annual compliance training is nearly at 100%, with a new training system ready to implement, which is a real step forward. Bev Kerrs will provide information as, and when this is available. Paediatric 1[st] Aid Training with the current provider has continued, with positive feedback received. It was felt important to continue with this higher level of training.

Bob thanked Michelle Millington, who has stepped down from her Programme Team Beaver role.

Chair: Thanks to Bob for his review.

4b. Receive and consider the Annual Report of the District Trustee Board including the annual Statement of Accounts

Chair:

The District Trustee Board approved the Annual Report and Statement of Accounts and has received the report on the accounts from the Independent Examiner.

Jenn Carline, District Treasurer gave her explanation of the Statement of Accounts.

There have been two major changes in the past year.

Interest on the Naylor and Shaw funds has ceased due to CAFF withdrawing their products and are not a good option going forward. Investment options are underway to identify the best options, but this is not straightforward and is taking time.
Move to digital online banking has been adopted.

An opportunity was given to raise questions on the Trustee Annual Report, and the Annual Accounts.

No questions were asked or received.

The Chair thanked Jenn for the work she has done.

5. Appointment of the Trustee Board.

Chair: The purpose of the Trustee Board is to organise the set-up of the charity and oversee good governance for until the next AGM.

5a. Appoint the District Chair, following recommendations from the open selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board

District Lead Volunteer - following the open selection process agreed by the Trustee Board, the recommendation to the District Scout Council was that Graham Barrick be appointed as District Chair. This was approved by a show of hands.

District Lead Volunteer thanked Graham for all the work he has done in the past year to support with the transformation which has meant that Urmston District is prepared and ready. Graham has also been appointed as the County Chair and will continue in his role as District Chair.

5b. Appoint the District Treasurer, following recommendations from the open selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board

Chair:

Following the open selection process agreed by the Trustee Board. The recommendation to the District Scout Council was that Jenn Carline should be appointed as District Treasurer. This was approved by a show of hands.

5c. Appoint members of the District Trustee Board, following recommendations from the open selection process initiated by the District Trustee Board

Chair:

Following the open selection process agreed by the Trustee Board. The recommendation to the District Scout Council is that:

Andy Spear Derek Jones Connor O’Neill Bill Outhwaite Hannah Wilson Carole Knowles

should be appointed as members of the District Trustee Board.

This was approved by a show of hands.

Chair:

Thanks to the Trustees for their work during the year and in particular, Janet Pearce who is standing down after over a decade of service as a Trustee and former District Secretary. A personal thanks to Janet who has undertaken a variety of roles and could not attend the AGM.

5d. Re-appoint District President and Vice Presidents

Chair:

The District Scout Council re-appoints the District President and Vice Presidents.

Chair advises that Chris Knowles is proposed as President and Vera Crossley and Ellen McCaig as Vice Presidents. Please show your hands to re-approve.

5e. Appoint the Independent Examiner

Treasurer Proposed Liz Armstrong

Chair:

Confirmed that Liz Armstrong had been proposed, seconded, and is qualified for the role, and asked for a show of hands to approve Liz Armstrong’s nomination, which was received.

5f. Nominate a representative of the District Scout Council to represent the District on the County Scout Council

Chair:

One member needs to be nominated as the District representative to the County Scout Council. Mike Ellis had been proposed and seconded. This was approved by a show of hands.

6. Closing remarks

Chair:

Closed the AGM and thanked everyone for attending.

Chair invited Bob Wilson, District Lead Volunteer to present awards to members of the District.

Who	Award	DLV thanks and recognition
Wood Beads	Nicola Stubbs	Thanks for the work at 8thFlixton and running sections for Cubs and Scouts.
Wood Beads & Medal of Merit	Jemma Williamson	Section Leader, Scout Active Support Band, ADC Beavers

		Incredible amount of work that Jemma has put into the band, very well deserved
Medal of Merit	Dave Kerrs	Took on the GLV role at 2ndUrmston, and have built the Group up, under your tenure made 2ndUrmston the success that it is.
10-year Service	Jenn Carline	Thanks for taking on the District Treasurer role and moving us onto online banking as well as running section at 1stFlixton.
Wood Beads	Simon Field	Thanks for taking on a role again, now GLV at 3rd Davyhulme and District Lead for 14-24

Chair – Congratulations to all.

Chair invited Jacob Bond to speak on behalf of the County.

Jacob Bond – Acting County Lead Volunteer

Huge thank you on behalf of the County Team and Trustees, there are hundreds of young people who benefit from your volunteering, I can see that there are exciting times ahead for Urmston District. It was great to see the open day on Sunday at Partington.

I would like to express my thanks to Graham and delighted that he has accepted the role of County Chair.

I am also delighted to present Bob Wilson with Silver Acorn in recognition for his achievements both within District and County.

Chair: Thanked Bob and all the trustees on the transformation journey and the support that Jacob has provided, which has enabled him to ensure the transformation for Urmston District.

Meeting closed 8:40pm

Refreshments followed with presentations from:

3[rd] Davyhulme Band following their trip to Disneyland Paris
The Districts International trip to Switzerland.

Appendix 1

Appendix 1	Appendix 1	Appendix 1

	Attendees
Name	Group/ District/ County	Role
Graham Barrick	District	Chair
Chris Darn	District	Scout Active Support
Bob Wilson	District	DLV
Derek Jones	1stDavyhulme	Scout Active Support
Sandra Jones	1stDavyhulme	Scout Active Support
Riley Frederickson	1stDavyhulme	Explorer
Evan Burnott	1st Davyhulme	Explorer
Chris Knowles	District	District President
Carole Knowles	District
Dave Kerrs	2ndUrmston	GLV
Bev Kerrs	2ndUrmston
Simon Field	3rdDavyhulme	GLV, 14-24 Lead
Nicola Stubbs	8thFlixton	Scout Leaver
Andy Spear	1st Davyhulme	GLV
Sue Lowe	District Shop	SAS
Daniel Easdon	District/ 5thUrmston	ASL, Programme Lead Scouts
Rebecca Easdon	2ndUrmston/ District	ASL, YL Unit
Andy Connellan	Wigan District	DPTL
Barbara Spear	1stDavyhulme	CLV
Bruce Chapman	Ist Davyhulme	Explorer
Tracey Outhwaite	District Music Group	District Skills Instructor
Bill Outhwaite	District	District Secretary for Trustees
Beccy Shaw	District	District Cub Lead

Jenn Carline	District	District Treasurer
Jemma Williamson	Urmston/3rdDavyhulme/ GMW	District Beavers/ Bandmaster
Alison Yarwood	3rdDavyhulme	Cub Leader
Ian Yarwood	3rdDavyhulme	Cub Leader
Hannah Wilson	5thUrmston	Cub Leader
Jacob Bond	GMW	Acting County Lead
Isabel Brett	District	Youth Lead
Angela Yarwood	8thFlixton	GLV
Connor O’Neil	5thUrmston	ACV
Gill Cook	2ndDavyhulme	Beaver Leader
James Cooke	5thUrmston	Occasional Helper (Scouts)
Margaret Marshall	5thUrmston	Group Administrator
Alan Marshall	5thUrmston	Occasional Helper
Jackie Wilson	District	District Administrator

Apologies

Apologies	Apologies	Apologies
Name	Group/ District/ County	Role
Vera Crossley	District	Scout Active Support
Mike Ellis	5thUrmston	Scout Leader
Debbie Pullen	2ndDavyhulme	GLV
Stuart Pullen	2ndDavyhulme	Scout Leader
Janet Pearce	District	Scout Active Support
Steven Moore	2ndDavyhulme	Occasional Helper
Darren Grace	3rd Davyhulme	Scout Leader
Janice Glennon	1stDavyhulme	Cub Volunteer

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

The District’s governing documents are those of The Scout Association. They consist of a Royal Charter, which in turn gives authority to the Bye Laws of the Association and The Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association.

The District is a trust established under its rules which are common to all Scouts.

The Trustees are appointed in accordance with the Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association.

The District is managed by the District Trustee Board, the members of which are the ‘Charity Trustees’ of the Scout District which is an educational charity. As charity trustees they are responsible for complying with legislation applicable to charities. This includes the registration, keeping proper accounts and making returns to the Charity Commission as appropriate.

The Trustee Board consists of the Chair, Treasurer, and 9 Trustees (including 2 Ex Officio Trustees, and 1 co-opted trustee) and meet every 2 months. Members of the Trustee Board complete Being a Scouts Trustee learning within the first 6 months of joining the Board.

This District Trustee Board exists to make sure the charity is well-managed, risks are assessed and mitigated, equipment are in good working order, and everyone follows legal requirements and the organisation's policies and rules. Their support helps other volunteers run high quality and safe programmes that gives young people skills for life.

Members of the Trustee Board must act collectively as charity Trustees of the Scout District and in the best interests of its members in accordance with the Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association.

The District Trustees has identified the major risks to which they believe the District is exposed, these have been reviewed and systems have been established to mitigate against them. The main areas of concern that have been identified are: the District is primarily reliant upon income from the District Levy and the Scout Shop. The District does hold a reserve to ensure the continuity of activities should there be a major reduction in income. Otherwise, the Trustee Board would have to raise the value of the District Levy to increase the income to the District on an ongoing basis, either temporarily or permanently.

The District has sufficient contents insurance in place to mitigate against permanent loss of the Scout Shop stock.

Injury to leaders, helpers, supporters and members. The District through the membership fees contributes to the Scout Associations national accident insurance policy. Risk Assessments are undertaken before all activities.

The District has in place systems of internal controls that are designed to provide reasonable assurance against material mismanagement or loss, these include 2 signatories for all payments.

The District Finances continue to be in a healthy position as detailed in the Annual Statement of Accounts compiled by our Treasurer Jenn Carline, and the District wishes to record its thanks for the work she has done.

The District Scout Shop continues to provide valuable support to District finances, and the Trustees on behalf of the District, wishes to record its thanks to the team of volunteers who freely give their time to staff the shop on Saturday mornings.

OBJECTIVES, ACTIVITIES, ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

The Purpose of Scouting

Scouting exists to actively engage and support young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.

The Values of Scouting

As Scouts we are guided by these values: Integrity - We act with integrity; we are honest, trustworthy, and loyal. Respect - We have self-respect and respect for others. Care - We support others and take care of the world in which we live. Belief - We explore our faiths, beliefs, and attitudes. Co-operation - We make a positive difference; we cooperate with others and make friends.

The Scout Method

Scouting takes place when young people, in partnership with adults, work together based on the values of Scouting and: - enjoy what they are doing and have fun - take part in activities indoors and outdoors - learn by doing - share in spiritual reflection - take responsibility and make choices - undertake new and challenging activities - make and live by their Promise.

The District meets the Charity Commission's public benefit criteria under both the advancement of education and the advancement of citizenship or community development headings.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

District Chair’s Report

I would like to start by saying a huge THANK YOU and WELL DONE to you all.

A lot of work has been undertaken within Urmston and District over the past 12 months, all testament to the commitment and dedication of everyone. Whatever your role, and wherever you carry out your Scouting week in week out, you do it with commitment to ensure everyone is included, providing fun activities and adventures for all.

Our transformation journey is now complete, It’s goodbye to Compass and hello to the new Digital Membership System, which despite some teething issues is a major step forward. HQ are continuously improving the system, resolving issues, and implementing new features, based on what Leaders need. On behalf of the Trustee Board, I would like to thank you for your work on the progress that has been made.

As volunteers in Scouts, we’re all proud to help young people step up, speak up, dream big and gain the skills they need for life. Thanks to you, young people find their place in the world, learn to believe in themselves, and make a difference to their communities and society. No matter which team you’re in, your time and skills help young people gain skills for life.

By working together, and living our values of integrity, respect, care, belief and cooperation, our aim is to have a positive, safe, and rewarding experience as volunteers. That means that as volunteers we should all think carefully about the impact of our words and actions, and behave as role models for our young people.

The Trustee Board is a team of volunteers who work together, as charity trustees, to make sure Scouts is run safely and legally. All Trustees are equally responsible and work together. However, we were saddened when we had to make the decision not to hold a St George’s Day Parade after 2024 due to ever increasing costs. We can no longer justify spending almost £2,000 to hold a parade around the streets of Urmston. The money saved will be spent for the benefit of our young people in Scouting in the forthcoming years. We will however hold a day of celebration in 2026, where we can renew our promises and promote Scouting to the general public of Urmston.

The work carried out by Sue Lowe and her team in the Scout shop, makes a significant financial contribution to District Funds from which all Groups benefit. Without this income, the District Levy would increase by several pounds. Please DO NOT make purchases for other sources.

The Annual Census has indicated our membership to be 534 youth members, a decrease of 22. Beavers decreased by 11, Cubs decreased by 16, Scouts decreased by 5 and Explorers increased by 10. Our adult Leader numbers have increased by 17.

Thank you to all our volunteers in the District who have continued to deliver Scouting to young people over the past year.

My thanks to Dib Dob and all members of the Trustee Board for the contribution and support you give me, the District team, and to everybody in the District who freely give their time for the benefit of young people.

Finally, let us not forget those who after many years of service to Scouting in Urmston and District have sadly ‘Gone Home.’

Graham Barrick – District Chair

District Lead Volunteer’s Report

Bob Wilson – District lead Volunteer

Review of the Year 2024 – 2025

What a year we have had in the District. All sections have been extremely busy with events and competitions. We have had two international trips. 3[rd] Davyhulme Band having their highly successful trip to Disney where they took part in the Disney Parade. We also had our District trip Adelboden in Switzerland.

Our District Census showed our membership remained stable and actually saw a 10% increase in Explorers! We also saw an increase in volunteers but need to do more work around this in ensuring we attract more volunteers where we need them. In support of this we have plans in place to begin opening Squirrel Drays as this has proven to be successful in other Districts in growing volunteers’ numbers. Plans are also well underway to re-open 1[st] Partington Scout Group and we held a very successful open day at the proposed new HQ Building on Oak Road in Partington.

We have submitted a Grant Application to West Lancashire Masonic Charity for £25,000 to purchase a District Mini-Bus. If successful this will be an invaluable support to programme delivery for all groups.

Planning is also underway for out District Camp in May 2025. This has been a team effort and should be an amazing event.

All our groups do a wonderful job in providing high quality scouting. I can’t thank them all enough for all their hard work and dedication, especially our Group Lead Volunteers who are incredible. We had some changes during the year as Michelle Millington stepped down as GLV at 3[rd] Davyhulme. I would like to thank Michelle for all her hard work and wish her well in her future scouting. Simon Field took over the role and is doing a superb job.

The biggest change this year has been the implementation of the new membership system. This has brought its challenges and caused many more hours of hard work for many of our volunteers. The system is not perfect but is better in many ways to the system it replaces. Work continues in improving it based on the feedback we receive. I would like to thank everyone for the way they have embraced the changes in the true spirit of scouting.

I am supported by Graham Barrick, our highly capable District Chair, who is an invaluable help to me. I also have a fantastic District Team who wear multiple scouting hats. Their dedication and hard work is inspirational and I couldn’t do my role of DLV without them.

Support Team Lead – Carole Knowles

Learning and Development Team Lead – Bev Kerrs

14- 24 Team Lead – Simon Field

Youth Team Lead – Issy Brett

Programme Team Beavers – Jemma Williamson

Programme Team Cubs – Becky Shaw

Programme Team Scouts – Dan Easdon

District Young Leader Unit – Bev Kerrs / Becca Easdon / Becky Shaw.

Beavers – Jemma Williamson

“2024 has been a year of change for Urmston District Beavers.

We said farewell to Michelle as she moved on from Urmston District. I would like to pass on my thanks to Michelle for all her hard work during her time in the role.

I myself took on the role October time, since then we have had lots of meetings to plan forward to what we can do as a district with Beavers, resulting in the starting of planning a district Beavers Sleepover at Gulliver’s World combing up in September 2025!

In February we had the District Beavers Cooking Competition. It was a fantastic event. We had 1 team from 2[nd] Davyhulme and 2 teams from. 3[rd] Davyhulme. Huge congratulations to 2[nd] Davyhulme who took 1[st] place!!

I am looking forward to working more closely with our groups within the district to support them and put on events together to give our youth members the best experiences we can in 2025!”

Cubs – Becky Shaw

The cubs have been busy this year taking part in lots of different activities. All cub packs were represented at the district St Georges Day Parade. It was great to see the cubs looking so smart and displaying excellent behaviour. At the end of April 8F cubs took part in the Cub Water Sports day at Scotsman Flash. In June the cubs had lots of fun taking part in a range of different activities at the cub activity day down at 5[th] Urmston.

In July the cubs had great fun taking part in the cub’s sports day. 1[st] place went to 3D with 5U in 2[nd] place and 8F in 3[rd] . Well done to all the teams who took part you were all amazing. In September both the cubs from 3D and 8F helped raise much needed funds for MacMillan by holding a Macmillan coffee evening.

In November the cubs took part in the Barbara Hughs where the cubs had to use Lego to build a mini camp site and Aston trophy where the cubs had to complete several scout related activities. Well done to 8F and 3D for winning the Barbara Hughs and 3D and 5U Romulus for winning the Aston Trophy.

In March Cubs from 5U and 3D took part in the inter district chess competition alongside cubs from different districts. I have had the honour of presenting some silver awards across different cub packs and look forward to presenting more later in the year. I would like to say a massive thank you to all the cub leaders for the amazing job they do.

Scouts – Dan Easdon

“Scouts this year have had a busy year with the following competitions and the respective winners;

Lord Derby: 3D
Football comp: 2D
Backwoods Cooking: 8F & 1F
Row Flag: 8F
Shooting comp: 3D
Cooking: 8F/5U (joint team)
Bowling: 2U

All the competitions and events have been really well supported and the scouts in attendance have done themselves proud representing their groups and their district. I’d like to thank all the scout leaders within the district for their support in providing fantastic experiences for all our young people!”

14-24 – Simon Field

“This has been a brilliant year for the Explorer section.

We have record numbers taking part on a weekly basis.

We have also been making huge strides in the units supporting each other more, culminating in the joining of the units from 2nd Urmston, 5th Urmston and 8th Flixton into the 258 Unit.

Each unit will still have its own separate identity but for weekly meetings they are one unit, sharing leaders and resources. Thank you to all the leaders and GLV's for making this possible.

In September, the Jack Beeson camping competition returned. During an amazing weekend, the units from 1st Flixton, 2nd Urmston and 3rd Davyhulme competed in a high-quality event. It was a very close contest in which 2nd Urmston pipped 3rd Davyhulme by the narrowest of margins. It was lovely to see Jack’s Son Graham attend to present the trophy.

We also held bowling and the Silver Hatchet competitions. Congratulations to 2nd Urmston who completed the clean sweep and won these as well.

The section has also seen many Platinum awards this last year and several have completed the Young Leader Scheme.

BRAVO to you all. “

Youth Lead – Issy Brett and Young Leader Unit – Bev Kerrs

The Young Leader Unit is going from strength to strength.

We have had 102 youth members both current and past who have attended the unit.

We currently have 49 youth members 20 of whom have completed their full award.

We have had 74 youth members in total complete their full award to date with many becoming leaders at their home groups.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank Becky, Issy and Becca for their support in running the unit.

I am extremely proud to be the District Lead Volunteer for Urmston & District. All our volunteers should be proud of all that they achieve for the benefit of the Young People in their charge.

WELL DONE and BRAVO!

Bob Wilson (Dib Dob)

District Lead Volunteer.

Scouts Urmston & District Av•l. A, (/. ii ai4 Scouts 21

Sadly, we have had to say goodbye to some Scouters.

Joan Shaw – Aunt of Tina Winterbottom and former District Badge Secretary.

Graham Foxall – Former Cub Leader at 2[nd] Urmston.

FINANCIAL REVIEW

The District accounts have been independently examined by Liz Armstrong.

The accounts are presented in a Receipts and Payments format recommended the ‘Charity Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP),’ which forms part of The Scout Association Policy, Organisation & Rules (POR).

The District's Income and Expenditure is very small and therefore does not have sufficient funds to invest in longer-term investments such as stocks and shares. The District has therefore adopted a low-risk strategy to the investment of its funds. All funds are held in cash using only mainstream banks or those who are registered with the FCA and covered by the FSCS.

The District Trustee Board regularly monitors the levels of bank balances and the interest rates received to ensure the District obtains maximum value and income from its banking arrangements. Occasionally this may involve using an account that requires a period of notice before funds may be withdrawn, before doing so the District Trustee Board considers the cash flow requirements.

The District’s policy on reserves is to hold sufficient resources to continue the charitable activities of the District Scout Council should income and fundraising activities fall short. The District Trustee Board considers the District should hold a sum equivalent to 24 months running costs, circa £28,000 The District held reserves of approximately £45,000 against this at year end. Some of reserves will be held for contributing to the next World Scout Jamboree to be held in Poland in 2027 should any of our young people be selected, supporting a grant application for a District Mini-Bus, and the District Camp to be held in May 2025. The Trustees are also in the process of re-investing our reserves, for the benefit of Scouting in Urmston and District.

Only the Scout Shop records its own financial accounts and these are consolidated within the District Accounts.

Apart from the General Funds and Designated Funds, the Urmston District Council has two Restricted Funds:

The L T Naylor Disbursement Fund. The District can make awards to Groups within the District up to the value of the total interest received in any single year. The purposes for which awards are made are special projects. Awards are not for routine maintenance.

The Shaw Memorial Fund was established to assist Groups in relation to projects (other than the International Jamboree) connected to the furtherance of International Scouting assistance and to enable members with disabilities to enjoy and participate in the activities of the movement more fully.

Awards from both funds help to further the aims of Scouting within the District. Awards can be made only prior to the commencement of the project.

The rules of the L T Naylor fund require any surplus of the income received but not disbursed, to be re-invested in the capital. Any surplus of income from the Shaw Memorial Fund but not disbursed may either be held for disbursement at a later stage or alternatively added to the capital sum at the discretion of the Trustee Board.

The District Trustee Board has determined that applications for the above funds should be made to the District Lead Volunteer on an annual basis and not later than 31[st] January in any one year.

All applications must be strictly in accordance with the Constitution and Rules for Administration of the respective Fund, details of which can be obtained from the District Lead Volunteer.

The Trustees are currently in the process of re-investing both restricted funds to ensure we receive improved returns.

Declaration

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

Signatures

G Barrick

R Wilson

Full names

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Graham Barrick Robert Wilson
Position
District Chair District Lead Volunteer
Date
0 2 0 6 2 5
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Urmston and District Scout Council (Charity no. 520234) Receipts and Payments Account

For the year from

1st April 2024

To 31st March 2025

Receipts and payments

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2024/25 2023/24
Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Endowment funds Total funds Total funds
£ £ £ £ £
Receipts
Donations, legacies and similar income
- -
Membership subscriptions 31,761.00 31,761.00 30,652.50
Donations 5.00 - - 5.00 1,055.00
- -
Training Courses 1,085.00 1,085.00 1,499.00
- -
Youth Programme and Activities 3,676.00 3,676.00 1,179.00
- -
Scout Shop Income 4,619.73 4,619.73 9,084.91
Sub total 41,146.73 - - 41,146.73 43,470.41
Grants
- - - - -
Maintenenace grant
- - - -
Other grants
Sub total - - - - -
Fundraising events (gross)
- - - - -
- - - - -
Other fundraising activities
Sub total - - - - -
Investment income
Bank interest - - - - -
Shawbrook Interest 181.03 - - 181.03 145.15
Lesley T Naylor - - - - 558.79
Shaw Memorial - - - - 356.01
Other investment income - - - - -
Sub total 181.03 - - 181.03 1,059.95
Total Gross Income 41,327.76 - - 41,327.76 44,530.36
- - - - -
Asset and investment sales, etc.
Total receipts 41,327.76 - - 41,327.76 44,530.36
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Urmston and District Scout Council (Charity no. 520234) Receipts and Payments Account

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For the year from 1st April 2024 To 31st March 2025
Receipts and payments
2024/25 2023/24
Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Endowment funds Total funds Total funds
£ £ £ £ £
Payments
Charitable Payments
- -
Membership subscriptions paid 26,966.00 26,966.00 26,319.00
- -
Youth programme and activities 3,073.03 3,073.03 3,109.72
- -
Adult support and training 2,327.30 2,327.30 1,430.02
Grant from L T Naylor Fund - 2,047.36 - 2,047.36 149.90
Grant from Shaw Memorial Fund - 1,600.00 - 1,600.00 -
- -
Scout Shop 5,458.79 5,458.79 8,951.71
Parade Costs 1,650.00 - - 1,650.00 55.00
Marketing - - - - 297.60
Video License 208.69 - - 208.69 193.96
Uniforms 205.75 - - 205.75 289.50
AGM - - - - 34.28
Website 82.09 - - 82.09 150.00
Sum Up Fees re Scout Shop 20.34 - - 20.34 42.48
Miscellaneous 55.00 - - 55.00 68.30
Sub total 40,046.99 3,647.36 - 43,694.35 41,091.47
Fundraising expenses
- -
Other fundraising costs
Sub total - - - - -
-
Total Gross Expenditure 40,046.99 3,647.36 43,694.35 41,091.47
Asset and investment valuation -648.77 - 648.77 804.41
-
Total payments 40,046.99 2,998.59 43,045.58 41,895.88
Net of receipts/(payments) 1,280.77 - 2,998.59 - - 1,717.82 2,634.48
Transfers between funds
Cash funds last year end 82,542.78 79,908.30
Cash funds this year end 1,280.77 - 2,998.59 - 80,824.96 82,542.78
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Urmston and District Scout Council (Charity no. 520234) Receipts and Payments Account

For the year from

1st April 2024

To 31st March 2025

Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of 2024/25 2023/24 Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Endowment funds Total funds Total funds £ £ £ £ £ Cash funds TSB Current Account 17,096.96 - - 17,096.96 27,978.85 - - TSB - L T Naylor 19,732.42 19,732.42 21,779.78 TSB Shaw Memorial 13,803.63 - 13,803.63 1,699.60 CAF Fixed Interest - Shaw Memorial 119.89 Shawbrook Bank 25,972.18 - - 25,972.18 25,791.15 - - Barclays Scout Shop 2,170.96 2,170.96 3,329.13 Cash/Floats 59.00 - - 59.00 29.95 ==ae==: Total cash funds 45,299.10 33,536.05 - 78,835.15 80,728.35 Other monetary assets - - Shop stock 1,989.81 1,989.81 1,814.43 Sub total 1,989.81 - - 1,989.81 1,814.43 Non monetary assets for charity's own use - - - - - Land and buildings Motor vehicles - Scouting equipment, furniture etc Sub total - - - - - Liabilities - - - - - Accounts not yet paid - Expenses incurred but not invoiced - Subscriptions not yet paid Sub total - - - - - _ Total net assets E55: 47,288.91 33,536.05 - 80,824.96 82,542.78 The above receipts and payments account and statement of assets and liabilities were approved by the Trustees on (the date of the Trustee Board meeting that approved the accounts) and signed on their behalf by

Signature

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||| |---|---| |Print Name| |Graham Barrick|Chair| |Jenn Carline|Treasurer|

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England & Wales

Unqualified report for a non-company charity preparing receipts and payments accounts with a gross income of £250,000 or less in the relevant financial year

Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of Urmston and District Scout Council

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of Urmston and District for the year ended 31[st] March 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity trustees of Urmston and District you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).

I report in respect of my examination of Urmston and District accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner’s statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

accounting records were not kept in respect of Urmston and District as required by section 130 of the Act; or
the accounts do not accord with those records.

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Signed:

Name: ELIZABETH R ARMSTRONG

Relevant professional qualification or membership of professional bodies (if any): FCCA

Address: 32 WESTMORLAND ROAD, URMSTON, MANCHESTER, M41 9HL

Date: 30[th] July 2025

2025-03-31-accounts