2023-03-31-accounts - Harborough District Scout Council

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One Amazing Year!

Harborough District Scouts Annual General Meeting 2023

Agenda for Annual General Meeting

21 June 2023

Welcome by Chair
Apologies
Approval of minutes for 2022 AGM
Trustees’ report
District Treasurer’s report
Approval of Auditor
District Commissioner’s report
DC’s nomination for Chair
Election of District Secretary
Election of District Treasurer
Election of members to the District Executive
DC Nominations to the District Executive
Co-opted members for District Executive
Nominations to the County Scout Council

Welcome by Chair

Can I extend a warm welcome to you all at this AGM, the first we have held in person since before lockdown. I started last years report by reporting an increase in membership and this year is no different. Our district now has 1085 members, a 9.2% increase. With this and further potential as the area housing grows, it brings us the challenge of finding more places to meet; something your Trustee Board is working on and of high priority.

After 10 years we say our thanks to Debbie Billington as she stands down from her role as District Commissioner. I am sure you will join with me in thanking her for the work and enthusiasm she has put into the role. We now welcome Paul Allenby who has accepted the challenge to be the next Harborough District Commissioner.

Our Executive Committees are being transformed into Boards of Trustees with new constitutions, but our governance role will continue.

My thanks go to all those who have served on the Executive in the past year and on the various Sub Committees. One such committee, which has been kept extremely busy this year, is the Appointment Sub Committee under the leadership of Phil Humphrey.

Due to the increase in our Youth Membership, we have been able to keep the District Capitation Fee frozen for yet another year, whilst still funding Online Scout Manager for every section. Financially, the district is in good shape and we have supported all those from the district going to the World Scout Jamboree in Korea this summer.

I would like to close by thanking all those who work within the District to make Scouting happen, for your time and expertise, you are appreciated.

Derek Catt, District Chair

2022 AGM Minutes

HARBOROUGH DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 24 May 2022 7.30pm Online via Zoom

Attendees

Debbie Billington, Eric Gamble, Pete Dove, Derek Catt, John Lacey, Sue Gardner, Phil Reed, Alistair Helm, Sue Lamont, Yan Provins, Eddie Harman, Pip & John Braint, David Mugridge, Stewart Harrison RBL, Jean Webb, Zoe Knox, Rebecca Byrne, Richard Brooks, Adrian Wray, Elizabeth Cockbill, Jo Osborne, James Ward, Sally Gambles, Ruth Tallis, Rebecca Humphrey, Jo Baynes-Clarke, Lillian Heaps.

Welcome by Chair

Derek Catt welcomed everyone to the AGM and thanked people for attending via Zoom. He also extended a warm welcome to Richard Brookes, District President and Adrian Wray, County Secretary.

Apologies

Toby Taylor, Kate Helm, Ben Reed and Georgia Dove.

Approval of Minutes for 2021 AGM

Proposed: Pete Dove, 2nd: Sue Gardner, all in favour.

Trustees’ Report

Derek summarised the report and encouraged people to read it.

District Treasurer’s Report

Eddie Harman – highlighted various items on the report. Proposed: Eddie Harman, 2nd: Debbie Billington. All in favour.

Approval of Examiner

It was proposed that we retain Graeme Reed as the examiner for the District accounts. Proposed: Eddie Harman, 2nd: Debbie Billington. All in favour

District Commissioner’s Report

Debbie Billington gave a verbal report on the activities over the last year and the challenges and focus for the coming year, full details available in the annual report.

Elections and Nominations

See table.

Position	Nominee	Nominator	Seconder
District Chair	Derek Catt	Debbie Billington	n/a
District Secretary	Ruth Tallis	Eric Gamble	Pete Dove
District Treasurer	Eddie Harman	Phil Humphrey	Alistair Helm
Elected Members (up to 5)
Elected Member	Jean Webb	Ruth Tallis	Eddie Harman
Elected Member	Elizabeth Cockbill	Debbie Billington	Alistair Helm
Elected Member	John Lacey	Eric Gamble	Jean Webb
Elected Member	David Mugridge	Jean Webb	Eric Gamble
Elected Member	Alistair Helm	Pete Dove	Phil Humphrey
DC Nomination (up to 5 or less if less Elected)
DC Nomination	Phil Reed	DC Nomination	Eric Gamble
DC Nomination	Sue Gardner	DC Nomination	Phil Humphrey
DC Nomination	Peter Dove
Ex-Offcio members
DC	Debbie Billington	DSNC	vacant
DESC	Toby Taylor	Youth Commissioner	Katie Rollason
Nominations to the County Scout Council
E-O DC	Debbie Billington	Youth Commissioner	Katie Rollason
Chairman	Derek Catt	Another	Eric Gamble
Secretary	Ruth Tallis	Another	Peter Dove
Treasurer	Eddie Harman	Another	Phil Reed

Trustees’ Report

Harborough District Scout Council

Trustees' Annual Report

For the period 1 April 2022 to 31st March 2023

SECTION A REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATION DETAILS

Charity Name Harborough District Scout Council Registered Charity Number 521764 Charity’s Principal Address c/o Derek Catt, 62 Weir Road, Kibworth, Leicester LE8 0LP

List of Trustees

Trustee Name	Office (if any)	Period Acted (if not wholeyear)	Method of Appointment
Deborah Billington	District Commissioner		Ex Officio
Derek Catt	Chair		Ex Officio
Edward Harman	Treasurer		Ex Officio
Ruth Tallis	Secretary		Ex Officio
Toby Taylor	District Explorer Commissioner		Ex Officio
Fred Cooper	Youth Commissioner	From 18 Nov 22	Ex Officio
Katie Rollason	Youth Commissioner	To 6 Nov 22	Ex Officio
Alistair Helm			Elected
Diana Webb	Badge Secretary		Elected
John Lacey	Safety Officer		Elected
David Mugridge			Elected
Elizabeth Cockbill			Elected
Eric Gamble			Nominated
Suzanne Gardner			Nominated
Peter Dove			Nominated
Philip Humphrey			Nominated
Philip Reed			Nominated

SECTION B STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Description of the charity’s trusts

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.

Trustee selection methods

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

Management

The District is managed by the District Executive Committee, 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 Committee consists of 3 independent representatives, Chair, Treasurer and Secretary together with the Ex Officio officers, Elected, Nominated and Co-opted members. The District Executive meets usually 6 times each year.

This District Executive Committee exists to support the District Commissioner in meeting the responsibilities of the appointment and also to support the Executives of each of the Scout Groups within the District and is responsible for:-

The maintenance of District property;

The raising of funds and the administration of District finance;

The insurance of persons, property and equipment;

District public occasions;

Assisting in the recruitment of leaders and other adult support;

Appointing any sub committees that may be required;

Appointing District Administrators and Advisors other than those who are elected.

Overseeing the correct running of the Groups within the District and providing support where needed.

Risk and Internal Control Section 1

The District Executive Committee 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:

Damage to buildings, property and equipment. The District would request the use of buildings, property and equipment from Scout Groups as appropriate. Similar reciprocal arrangements exist with all Groups within the District and some other organisations. The District has sufficient buildings and contents insurance in place to mitigate against permanent loss.
Injury to leaders, helpers, supporters and members. The District through membership fees contributes to the Scout Association’s national accident insurance policy and has additional cover for those not included within this. Risk Assessments are undertaken before all activities.
Reduced income from fund raising. The District is primarily reliant upon income from member fees and other fundraising. The District does hold a reserve to ensure the continuity of activities should there be a major reduction in income. The Committee could raise the value of member fees to increase the income to the District on an ongoing basis, either temporarily or permanently or approach other organisations for grants or loans.
Reduction or loss of leaders. The District is totally reliant upon volunteers to run and administer the activities of the District. If there was a reduction in the number of leaders to an unacceptable level in a particular Group or the District as a whole then there would have to be a contraction, consolidation or closure of a Group. In the worst case scenario the complete closure of the District.
Reduction or loss of members. The District provides activities for all young people aged 6 to 25. If there was a reduction in membership in a particular Group or the District as whole then there would have to be a contraction, consolidation or closure of a section. In the worst case scenario the complete closure of the District.

Risk and Internal Control Section 2

The District has in place systems of internal controls that are designed to provide reasonable assurance against material mismanagement or loss. The District also has comprehensive insurance policies to ensure that insurable risks are covered.

The responsibility for control of the finances falls collectively to the Executive Committee and they may be held responsible for any loss. As such we implement the following requirements:-
A budget is set annually as soon as possible after the start of the financial year to give an indication of the level of income / expenditure and thus what fundraising may be required. This budget is set by the Finance Sub Committee and is approved by the executive committee.
All sectional events are self-financing and the event organiser must keep an accurate record of income and expenditure so that a balance sheet can be produced to demonstrate compliance.
Any expenditure not included in the budget must be approved by the executive committee beforehand. No individual has the right to commit the use of any funds without this approval. This does not include reasonable personal expenses and occasional items below £25 in value.
There is no pre-signing of cheques under any circumstances.
All online banking transactions are set up and authorised by two people independently with their own secure login details.
Wherever possible the person authorising an online payment or countersigning the cheque should compare it to an appropriate invoice.
Bank statements are presented at all executive meetings with a brief review of all major transactions from the treasurer.
An auditor (not necessarily professional) is appointed annually from outside of the District. This is done at the AGM preceding the financial year.
The secretary or chair (not the treasurer) should invite the auditor to attend the AGM at the year end.

SECTION C OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

Summary of the objects of the charity set out in its governing document

The objectives of the District are as a unit of the Scout Association. Scouting exists to actively engage and support young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.

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; and
make and live by their Promise.

Summary of the objects of the charity set out in its governing document

The District supports the Groups within its boundaries to enable them to provide activities to achieve the Scouting aims.
The District also runs camps, competitions and activities for the various sections to achieve Scouting aims and in particular badges.
The District interviews and arranges DBS checks on all Adults working in the District to ensure a safe environment for young people.
The District Executive follows the safety policies and code of practice as laid down in the Association’s Policies, Organisation and Rules.

SECTION D ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year

Beau District Camp which included St George’s Day celebrations with 650 participants.
GSL support at 1[st] Welland Valley.
Continued focus on TSA Skills for Life strategic plan and our corresponding action plan.
Adult awards evening to celebrate the achievements of our volunteers including National Awards.
Online Scout Manager District Dashboard and Adults account with discount subscription for sections.
Appointments Sub Committee meeting monthly with District inductions and completion of Module 2 training.
Recruitment and induction of new Youth Commissioner.
Support and advice to Groups to open Squirrel Dreys.
Support and advice for youth member and adult recruitment at 1st Great Glen, including opening a Squirrel section.
Volunteer training and support sessions through Zoom.
Continued management of joining enquiries and waiting list system across the District.
Support and advice to 1st Fleckney for the building of their new headquarters.
Scout and Explorer District Dodgeball Competition.
Swimming Gala for Beavers to Explorers.
Land at Wellington Place, Market Harborough for a new community centre, secured for Harborough Scouts ownership.
Member of the Harborough Lotto and income generated is being used to support the District.

SECTION E FINANCIAL REVIEW

Reserves Policy

The District's policy on reserves is to hold sufficient resources to continue the charitable activities of the District should income and fundraising activities fall short. The District Executive Committee considers that the District should hold a sum equivalent to 12 months running costs, circa £8,000.

The District held reserves of approximately £14,000 against this at year end. This is within the limits set. Additionally a balance is held in a separate account for administration of the Explorer Scout Units. This is controlled by Harborough District Scouts but administered separately on a day to day basis for effective running of the units.

Investment Policy

The District’s Income and Expenditure is very small and as a consequence 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 building societies.

SECTION F OTHER INFORMATION

Plans for future

Continue to work on the objectives as set out in our #Skills for Life Action Plan as well as continuing to make the new Scout Centre at Wellington Place a reality.

SECTION G DECLARATION

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

----- Start of picture text -----
31/03/2023
Derek Catt Deborah Billington
District Chair District Commissioner
01/05/2022
----- End of picture text -----

Independent Examiner’s Report

I report on the accounts of the Harborough District Scout Council for the year ended 31/03/2023

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year

under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to:

examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act,
to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b)) of the Charities Act, and
to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of independent examiner’s report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair’ view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner’s statement

In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my attention, which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 120 of the Charities Act or
the accounts do not accord with the accounting records
I have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Name: Graeme Reid Relevant professional qualification or body: ACCA Address: 22 Goldsmith Road, Braunstone Frith, Leicester LE3 1PT Date: 09/05/2023

Signed:

Treasurer’s Report

Another successful year see our membership increase by a further 10.3% taking our youth membership (4 – 18 years) to 825.

During 2022/23 there was a deficit of funds amounting to £5,574 (£13,683 surplus 2021/22) and the consolidated bank balance was £59,541. The majority of the deficit has arisen due to the timing of funds being received for the district camp as the majority of the expenditure occurred in this financial period.

The district makes a provision each year to assist the contingent attending the World Jamboree. This money is held in reserve and a contribution of £3,333 was made to them during the year.

Within the various bank accounts there are certain amounts that have been designated for the following purposes:-

Camp Account £ 5,200 money set aside from fundraising for ESU members to use against activities Explorer Units £18,164 includes £6,500 in deposits for the summer camp in France

District Events £ 5,744 funds relate to District Camp, Fraser Shield, Sectional Events & Gang Show* Reserves £15,000

Total £44,108

All other funds are unrestricted.

*£1,270 of the events account balance belongs to MH Girl Guides due to Gang Show being a 50/50 joint venture.

Eddie Harman

District Treasurer

Financial Report	Financial Report	Financial Report	Financial Report	Financial Report

Receipts andpayments accounts
	For the period from	Period start date	To	Period end date
		1st April 2022		31st March 2023	31st March 2022

Section A Receipts and payments
	Unrestricted funds	Restricted funds	Endowment funds	Total funds	Last year
	to the nearest £	to the nearest £	to the nearest £	to the nearest £	to the nearest £
A1 Receipts
Donation	275			275	107
Badges	751			751	969
Fundraising	5,501			5,501	908
MembershipFees	43,452			43,452	38,948
Traffic Management	1,100			1,100	755
Miscellaneous	-			-	585
Interest	27			27	1
Trips & Activities	29,246			29,246	11,700
Fraser Shield	2,648			2,648	155
GangShow	-			-	-
Gift Aid	520			520	581
Subs	4,524			4,524	3,184

*Sub total*(Gross income for AR)	88,044	-	-	88,044	57,895

A2 Asset and investment sales, (see table).
	-	-	-	-
	-	-	-	-	-
*Sub total*	-	-	-	-	-

*Total receipts*	88,044	-	-	88,044	57,895

A3 Payments
Donation to PoppyAppeal	-			-	25
Badge Purchases	802			802	1,330
St Georges Day	-			-	133
Training& Leader Packs	1,852			1,852	720
Equipment	-			-	-
Equipment Maintenance	-			-	-
Gifts Comemorations	-			-	-
District Expenses	702			702	246
Insurance	1,683			1,683	42
Award Evening	642			642	801
MembershipFees	38,198			38,198	33,884
District OSM	1,935			1,935	1,625
Printing& Stationery	-			-	-
Room Hire	106			106	-
Branding& Media	562			562	490
Storage	-			-	100
Licences	246			246	225
Traffic Management	126			126	76
FundraisingExpenses	-			-	-
Trips & Activities	41,209			41,209	3,538
Fraser Shield Expenses	2,223			2,223	- 23
~~J~~amboree Payment	3,333			3,333	1,000

**Sub total **	93,617	-	-	93,617	44,213

A4 Asset and investment purchases
		-	-	-
Camping Equipment	-	-	-	-
**Sub total **	-	-	-	-	-

*Totalpayments*	93,617	-	-	93,617	44,213

*Net of receipts/(payments)*	- 5,574	-	-	- 5,574	13,682
A5 Transfers between funds	-	-	-	-	-
A6 Cash funds lastyear end	65,115	-	-	65,115	51,433
*Cash funds thisyear end*	59,541	-	-	59,541	65,115

Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period

Categories	Details	Unrestricted funds	Restricted funds	Endowment funds
		to nearest £	to nearest £	to nearest £
B1 Cash funds	Bank Accounts	59,541

		-
	*Total cash funds*	59,541	-	-
	(agree balances w ith receipts and payments account(s))	OK		OK
		Unrestricted funds	Restricted funds	Endowment funds
	Details	to nearest £	to nearest £	to nearest £
B2 Other monetary assets






	Details	Fund to which asset belongs	Cost (optional)	Current value (optional)
B3 Investment assets





	Details	Fund to which asset belongs	Cost (optional)	Current value (optional)
B4 Assets retained for the charity’s own use









	Details	Fund to which liability relates	Amount due (optional)	When due (optional)
B5 Liabilities





Signed by one or two trustees on behalf of all the trustees	Signature	Print Name		Date of approval
		Derek Catt		25/04/2023
		Eddie Harman		25/04/2023

District

Commissioner

What a fantastic year to end my ten years’ service as Harborough’s District Commissioner!

It began with our long awaited and biggest yet District Camp – Beau 2022 – with over 650 young people and adults at Beaudesert campsite in Cannock Chase. Having been originally planned for 2020 and delayed for two years because of the pandemic, it was great to finally go ahead. The weather was perfect and our extended planning didn’t go to waste. I was particularly thrilled to get so many new adults there taking part. My thanks go to Phil Reed and Jo BaynesClarke who with me masterminded the whole thing and spent the week after catching up on sleep. Our young people clocked up several hours of adventurous activities and of course several nights away - that are such a vital part of scouting and missing during covid times.

Our census figures had bounced back to pre-covid levels last year so this January we steamed ahead - now with more young people and adults in the District than ever before. I take great pride in this achievement as it has been the main focus while I have been DC. In 2013 when I started, we had 496 Young People and 111 adults, total 597, and this year reached 854 YP and 231 adults, total of 1085. That’s an 82% increase over the ten years! Of course, I can’t really take all the credit because so much of it has been down to the GSLs getting more young people in existing sections and opening new ones but then, my other priority has been supporting the GSLs so maybe that has paid off. Much of the continued success of our District is down to our awesome team of Group Scout Leaders so I need to remind them how great they are and that they are doing the hard work!

What we’ve not been so good at recently is getting young people through Chief Scout Awards, especially at Explorer level. We have slightly increased the numbers of Bronze and Gold but slipped back on Silver, although we have had some Acorns for the first time. We’ve had no Queen’s Scouts for the last three years and over the last five years only scraped a total of 6 Platinum, Diamond or Queen’s Scout Awards. Whereas in the first half of my “reign”, we clocked up 36. I hope this is something that gets back on track as we continue the post pandemic recovery and the Explorer programme is revised by The Association including the change to the King’s Scout Award.

The numbers on waiting lists across the district continues to increase. Well done to Sam Arnold at Kibworth for increasing section sizes and reopening the second Troop to clear some of their waiters but mainly it’s been 3, 4 and 5 year olds wanting to join Squirrels that have caused the increases. We have been working hard there too, with Welland Valley and 3rd Market Harborough opening Dreys in May

2022 and Glen and Bowdens set to open more at Easter 2023 and Kibworth and possibly Fleckney in September 2023.

Our Appointments Committee Welcome Meetings continued alternating between Zoom and face to face at Gartree Prison Visitors’ Centre. Thanks to Phil Humphrey and Jo Baynes-Clarke for continually keeping on top of this, listening to feedback and making changes to improve the volunteer journey.

We have continued to work on our training compliance and having to close roles of those who do not update their training has become commonplace. Fortunately, most adults are very quick and conscientious, so we do not lose our top volunteers. Our Training Managers, Sue and Pete Dove have kept us on top by ensuring new volunteers and renewals complete compulsory training in a timely manner.

I recently completed several training and validation Zoom sessions for our adult volunteers and have been encouraged by their commitment to learning and development. Transformation – the changes being implemented to our movement - will shift responsibility for training from county to districts and providing we can find trainers, I am now thinking this could be a positive change.

The District Team have not been supporting sections in the way I would have liked or visualised, with the exception of Sally Gambles with Squirrels. Yan’s and Sue’s work commitments made it difficult for them to get to Beaver and Cub meetings. Ben has attended a few county meetings for the Scout section but couldn’t make the one Zoom we arranged for district Scout Leaders. I did however spend much effort on planning and running Fraser Shield in 2022, with the help of Phil Reed, which paid off with record numbers taking part. It proved a great weekend not only for the Scouts but Leaders, enabling them to network with each other. We also arranged a District Dodgeball competition for Scouts and Explorers which was well attended and a great afternoon. Then in February, I masterminded the Swimming Gala, again with more participants than ever before and surprisingly finished earlier than ever before. Thanks in particular to the Dove family for doing all the bits (like judging) that I am truly hopeless at. I think it’s OK for me to admit to such failings now as I pass the DC baton onto Paul Allenby. I have spent several hours with Paul imparting knowledge and experience. I am sure that Paul will shine through as DC as his aversion to admin won’t let him get bogged down where I have been susceptible and in addition he is better at picking up the phone and sorting things here and now verbally. Sue Gardner resigned as ADC Cubs earlier this year and Paul has since recruited Hannah Dove and Jackie Freestone to the ADC Cub and Scout roles for his new District Team. This is great start and I am sure Paul will continue adding more adults to make an awesome team.

Our adult awards evening in January was a fantastic event. We recognised and thanked our Champion Scouters and awarded Commissioner’s Commendations along with various National

Awards. Nominations were received from across all groups and sections, along with presentations of a Chief Scout Commendations for Laura Grist, Chris Winton, Nicola Lawtie, Aaron Shelton and Denise Firth and an Award for Merit for Chris Thompson. The citations explaining the commitment, dedication and achievements of these Champions made for awesome listening. As was the last surprise citation, for me, that Phil Reed and Jo Baynes-Clarke had managed to include without me knowing. Instead of a guest speaker, we ended the evening with tales from nine young adults who have come through Harborough Scouting explaining what it did for them – or rather what our adult volunteers did for them, with the aim of thanking them and inspiring them further. I certainly found it very emotional, not only because I had played a part is so many of their journeys but also realising what a truly amazing, capable and sincere, thankful bunch of responsible citizens we have turned out. They affirmed that here in Harborough we are fulfilling the purpose of Scouting by actively engaging and supporting young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.

The most exciting project for me over the last year has been the new build Scout Centre on the Wellington Place (Airfield Farm) estate on the north side of Harborough. Curiously, this area is eligible to apply to the Youth Investment Fund for a share of their £368m available to build new premises to provide out of school provision for 11-18 year olds in levelling up areas. After convincing the County Council they should give the land allocated for a community building to Harborough Scouts for a new Scout Centre, we have set about applying for the grant. At present I am not convinced this will be forthcoming from the YIF (we are told we don’t have enough time to complete the build!) but Alistair Helm, Derek Catt, Eric Gamble and I are not put off that easily and are arguing as well as looking at alternative funding sources. As we have the land, the Centre needs to, and will, become a reality, even if it takes a bit longer to achieve via other funding sources. So, while my DC role comes to an end, I am certainly going to stick with and see this project to fruition. There is something addictive and compulsive about such a legacy and I can see how similar circumstances drove Ted Mantle to build the 3rds HQ and Glen to build theirs.

So, to come to a close, not only for this annual report but my 10 years as your District Commissioner, I think maybe over this time, I have completed some of the longest scouting weeks of all our district volunteers, but it’s been worth it. Worth it to know that all those young people have gained skills for life and personal development and are now the responsible empowered citizens we aimed for. It has been a privilege to serve as your DC. I have developed and improved my own skill set, gained a whole new family, had some amazing experiences, and made lasting memories and friendships. Thank you for the part you’ve played in our winning team. Let’s keep on with these scouting successes. Over to you Paul!

Debbie Billington, District Commissioner

A year on from our opening the District’s first Drey, Squirrels in Harborough is going from strength to strength. There are now four Dreys; Ash and Birch at Bowdens, Seaton at 3[rd] Market Harborough and Welland Valley. Between them they have over 60 Squirrels, 6 young leaders and around 20 adults.

Over the last year Squirrels sections have been very busy and some have made day visits to their group camps to get a taster of what is to come as they move up through the sections. In November, they all came together for the first time to have some swashbuckling fun at the District Pirate Day. Squirrels also took part in remembrance parades across the district.

The Bowdens Squirrels had an amazing trip to Gallones ice cream parlour and made their own ice cream, choosing the flavour and colour before putting it into the machine, they chose to have blue, strawberry flavoured ice cream – yummy! They were also visited by some cuddly (and some not so cuddly) creatures from Fudge and Co animal handlers. They were all very brave holding snakes, rats, tarantulas and even a skunk!

Seaton Squirrels have enjoyed getting to grips with some badges in order to move towards their Acorn awards and also celebrated Burns night with haggis, neeps and tatties. They are very much looking forward to expanding their numbers and gaining some new leaders very soon.

At Welland Valley the Squirrels enjoyed a trip to Farndon Fields Farm shop as part of their Super Chef badge. They learnt all about where their food comes from and had a tour around the shop.

In January, Squirrels across the country were given the go ahead to have nights away events. Although there are no District plans to take the Squirrels on any sleepovers, this does open up the opportunity for them to gain some nights away experience in the future,…watch this space!

Looking ahead, a new Drey will be opening at Great Glen after Easter, potentially followed by another one at Kibworth after the summer. All Dreys across the district will be involved in the St George’s Day celebration and we have another District event in the pipeline for the end of June, where we plan to have a ‘day camp’ at the Sir John Lowther Centre.

Sally Gambles, ADC Squirrels

Yet another challenging year for both the Leaders and the Beavers, as each colony continues to develop and build up their section from the previous years.

Lots of activities some old and some new have shown that our Beaver Sections offer what the youngsters need and want to enjoy the fun. Sleepovers were being held across a number of groups and some new leaders taking the decision to run a first sleepover too.

The year saw a few changes in leadership though but overall the continuation of existing leaders has helped the sections to build on the successes of last year.

We’ve kept up the number of Bronze awards being presented. This is despite new Beavers joining in 2021/2022 may not have had time to cover everything from lockdowns etc

Beavers across the district also attended the District camp at Beaudesert where fun galore was had by all, as well as St. George’s Day celebrations and an attendance at this year’s Remembrance.

In December the District organised ‘Ye Olde Fayre’ which was attended by 27 Beavers from 5 of the groups in the district. It was a day of fun and games, and at the end of the event the Beavers really had achieved their own motto of ‘fun and friends’ as they had met Beavers from other groups within the district.

I would like to thank all the Leaders and Helpers who without them Beavers could not happen. I would like also to welcome all the new members who have joined the Beaver community and wish them a happy time in the Beaver section.

We all look forward to an even better Beaver year ahead.

Yan Provins, District Assistant Commissioner (Poppa Beaver)

Having only very recently taken on this role, writing an annual report for Cubs has been somewhat of a challenge! I’ve definitely drawn the short straw.

What I can say is I am looking forward to getting stuck in across the District, meeting all the Cubs and amazing Cub leaders. So when you’re short of an adult on a section night, are doing something exciting, or need some support with anything Cubs, drop me a line and I’ll be there. I would really like to get some District Cub events off the ground so watch this space…

Hannah Dove, District Assistant Commissioner

It was great to see Scouts bounce back after the trials of the pandemic, and to see how resilient all of the troops have been in some challenging times.

As all the restrictions were lifted, we saw just under 1600 Scout Nights Away, and 17 CSA Gold awards.

Also returning from one of it's rare (wars and pandemics only!) breaks of course was The Fraser Shield, with lots of teams of varying experience coming to have a go at Willesley Scout campsite, with Bowden To The Queen patrol emerging victorious.

Brilliant work by all the leaders across the District who have kept their troops engaged and prepared them to compete in the competition with very little time to practice recently. It will be great to see how they develop in the coming years.

Looking forward to an even closer competition this year and to lots of CSA Gold awards going forward.

On one final note, we are delighted that Jackie Taylor has agreed to step into the role of ADC Scouts, with Sue Dove joining her as a District Scout Leader. Both are continuing with their group roles as well, but Welcome to the District Team to both of them. Ben Reed, Deputy DC / Acting ADC Scouts

Over the last 12 months, Explorer Scouting in the Harborough District has again continued to flourish and grow. Inclined ESU has successfully relaunched - with a number of leaders who are new to Explorers delivering an exciting and stimulating programme. Mad Hatters ESU thrives with its wellestablished team and numerous members and Lynx ESU – the Young Leader unit - has continued to support a number of our young people in their Scouting journey.

The rebirth of Inclined ESU at Foxton has been integral in ensuring that Explorers is open to as many of our 14 – 17-year-olds as possible and hopefully this is only the start of greater expansion. Although Explorers come from all parts of the District, there is a well-recognised need for an Explorer offering closer to Great Glen, Fleckney and Kibworth as distance can be a barrier for some potential members. Preparatory work is already starting to meet this need. Furthermore, as Market Harborough continues it’s expansion, it is the Explorer provision that is leading the push for a new base for Scouting on Wellington Place development.

The Explorers are always looking for new experiences and in March they finally found a location that suited them perfectly. A sleepover in the Kelvedon Secret Nuclear Bunker was educational, exceptional and eerie. However, sleeping in a bomb-proof bunker was not enough for them, they completed a gruelling assault course and mud run as their warmup activity on the Saturday afternoon.

The Explorer leadership team always support their members with achieving their Scouting and Duke of Edinburgh awards. Lynx ESU often gain new members who are keen to use Scouting as part of their volunteering element but often these young people stay on because of their experiences with our amazing scout groups and the support from Sue and Georgie.

Traditionally, the expedition section has been one of the great strengths of Explorers however changes to the age regulations (to accommodate schools) has meant that many new Explorers have already registered to complete the Bronze Expedition with their school. It is vital that as many children as possible get the opportunity to gain from the opportunities that an expedition offers, however the District Explorers are able to provide a more bespoke programme that allows a far greater level of independence with the planning and a more enriching and challenging experience. Bronze and Silver expeditions are already starting to be planned and, hopefully, as word spreads, numbers will increase.

2023 will be a big summer for the Explorers. As well as young people and adults from our District heading off to South Korea for the WSJ, there will also be over 20 of us heading to Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Explorers are always happiest when they are under canvas, and they will have plenty more opportunities over the next 12 months.

Toby Taylor, District Explorer Commissioner

While we’ve not had a Network Commissioner for the last 18 months, and the planned monthly meetings didn’t seem to happen, there have been some amazing contributions from our Unit. Several Network attended Fraser Shield and helped with the judging. This is vitality important for succession planning as our long standing judges will not be with us forever!

Georgie Dove was chosen as part of the Association’s team for the Queen’s funeral arrangements, helping members of the public, especially those with disabilities, to access the Queen lying in state.

In December, as I mention earlier in my DC report, I contacted all Network and several more over 25s who have come through Harborough Scouting as youth members, to give an outline of what this has meant to them, to the Volunteers invited to our District Adult Awards evening. It was heartening to get nine of them to step forward and hear their thoughts.

Fred Cooper attended the regional iMoveIt weekend—to inspire younger adults take on more senior roles such as Youth Commissioner or even District Commissioner. More recently, two of our Network, Sam Arnold and Jack Sawford have been chosen to be part of the Gilwell team for the King’s coronation in May.

Thank you Network!

Debbie Billington

Although I’ve only been in the Youth Commissioner role for a short time, I’ve already seen how well we are youth led within the District. In terms of young leaders, we had several attend a county young leader training weekend, the first since 2019. I have seen many young leaders using their experience and taking on organising and helping to run meetings. Allowing them to have an active role in section meetings and District events means our movement can continue to be designed by the young people who benefit from it. This has all been excellently supported by our Lynx Explorer Leader, Georgie Dove, who’s put in a lot of time and effort to give great support to all our young leaders and ensure they all get the right training for their development.

This year thus far, I’ve already had the opportunity to attend Explorer meetings as well as host a Scout Forum for Scouts to voice their views on future activity and projects within the District. I’m looking to expand on this to ensure that our Young People get to have a say in what goes on and hopefully give those involved an opportunity to develop their own leadership and decision-making skills for the future.

My goal for the coming year is to really show Young People in all sections what impact they have in scouting and the opportunities that are out there for them. I’m passionate about getting our scouts to understand that the movement is made for them to enjoy and thus they have every opportunity to shape it. I’m looking to increase the number of section visits we do personally at a District level to engage with youth members to gauge what they want to see happen. I’ve always said, “Any idea’s a good idea!” Although the Beaver that suggested to me that we play sleeping lions with real lions will probably be very disappointed when they don’t see that at any District events.

These section visits will also allow our youth members to start to understand the great network of volunteers beyond their own leadership team who are all there to support them and give them the best experience in scouting as possible. With all of this, hopefully we will continue to have a youth shaped District.

Fred Cooper, Youth Commissioner

SAS (Scout Active Support)

This year the S A S. is still alive and working!

The Traffic Management Team have become a valuable asset to the District Team, supporting the Saint George's Day celebrations in the town and Armistice parades around the county. They are all up to date on their training to comply with regulations and are raring to go.

The Active Support Section is for any Adult who wants to get involved with District Scouting Activities, with or without a scouting appointment.

The last major District event was an activity camp at Beaudesert, near Cannock Chase, where some extra adult help was needed and found to be invaluable. Thanks to all you leaders, helpers and parents who made it work smoothly and by making it an exceptionally enjoyable weekend for all our young people.

So if you want to be part of a successful team contact me and I'll keep you informed about our next adventure!

Eric Gamble, SAS Manager

eric.gamble@harboroughscouts.org.uk

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