2024-03-31-accounts - Harborough District Scout Council

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Harborough District Scouts Annual Report 2024 Scouts Harborough

Welcome to the

Harborough Scout Council Annual General Meeting

22nd May 2024 7.30pm Robert Monk Hall Foxton

Agenda

1. Introduction and Welcome by Chair

2. Apologies for absence

3. Governance topics

a. Approval of the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 21st June 2023
b. Adopt the constitution
c. Note the District’s financial year (1st April 2023 to 31st March 2024)
d. Agree the number of members that may be appointed to the Trustee Board
e. Agree the quorum for each Trustee Meeting
f. Agree the quorum for the District Scout Council Meeting (AGM)

4. Review of the previous year

a. The District Lead Volunteer’s Report
b. Receive and consider the Annual Report of the District Trustee Board, including the Annual Statement of the Accounts

5. Making appointments

a. Appoint the District Chair for one year
b. Appoint the District Treasurer for three years
c. Appoint members of the District Trustee Board for three years
d. Appoint members of the District Trustee Board for two years
e. Appoint members of the District Trustee Board for one year
f. Appoint scrutineer of the District Scout Council
g. Appoint representatives of the District Scout Council to represent the District on the County Scout Council

6. Closing remarks

Introduction and Welcome

A warm welcome to our AGM and especially to our invited Guests. During the year your Trustee Board, in line with the new Headquarters legislation, has changed its name to Harborough District Trustee Board. Tonight, we are going to complete the change by agreeing a new Constitution and a new slimmed down Trustee Board to comply with POR changes which came into effect from the 1st April 2024. Our Agenda will therefore be different to the usual one.

This time last year we welcomed our new District Commissioner Paul Allenby, to his new role, now the District Lead Volunteer. Paul has used the year to find his feet and take over the reigns of running and supporting the District.

The period of transition which we are going through has made us look at how we do things and to question if it is relevant moving forward. Could we use people’s time more effectively and in different ways? There is a lot for us to think, work and complete during the year ahead. Once again Harborough District has increased its membership from 1085 Members in 2023 to 1166 in 2024. This brings the age-old challenge of finding more Leaders and additional meeting places for Sections. Our waiting lists continue to grow and with the new home building programme within the District this pressure will only increase. I would like to thank the Appointments Committee for their work during the year, meeting every month to welcome and support our new Leaders.

Financially we are in a good place and at last are seeing some return from the Banks on interest rates. We are still funding everyone’s membership to OSM Scout Manager. With more Sections opening this will increase our expenditure. We supported all those who attended the World Scout Jamboree in Korea and despite the well documented reports, all those attending did enjoy their time and learnt from the experience. We are setting aside funds to support the next Jamboree in 2028.

May I thank the outgoing Trustees for their hard work during the year and all those who have supported the District in any way. Scouting happens because of your efforts which are much appreciated.

Derek Catt

District Chair

2023 AGM Minutes

HARBOROUGH DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 21 JUNE 2023

Attendees

Debbie Billington, Eric Gamble , Pete Dove, Derek Catt, John Lacey, Phil Reed, Alistair Helm, Eddie Harman, Sally Gamble, Jean Webb, Richard Brooks (District President), Elizabeth Cockbill, James Ward, Sally Gambles, Ruth Tallis, Jo Baynes-Clarke, Paul Allenby, Sue Dove, Hannah Dove, Fred Cooper, Chris Noschem, Nick Fordyce, Jackie Taylor, Serena Spearey, Ruth Gibbs, Ian Everitt and Phil King

Item 1 Welcome by Chair (meeting started 19:45)

Derek Catt welcomed everyone to the AGM and thanked people for attending. Everyone was invited to take a moment to remember and appreciate the work that the late Pauline Wells, the former Deputy District President, undertook in her role. She was extremely active in the district, and it was right that we should recognise and remember her.

Item 2 Apologies

72 people sent their apologies, a list has been filed with the minutes.

Item 3 Approval of minutes for 2022 AGM

Proposed – James Ward, 2nd – Phil Reed, All in favour

Item 4 Trustees’ Report

Derek summarised the report and encouraged people to read it.

Item 5 District Treasurer’s Report

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

Item 6 Approval of Auditors

It was proposed that we retain Graham Reed as the District accounts auditor Proposed- Eddie Harman, 2nd – Elizabeth Cockbill, All in favour

Item 7 District Commissioner Report

Debbie Billington read her report on the activities over the last year and reflected on her 10 years service as DC and welcomed Paul Allenby to the role. Full details available in the annual report.

Item 8 - 14 Nominations and Elections to the District Trustee Board

See table below – All nominations were approved by the meeting and all elections unanimously in favour Thank you goes to John Lacey and David Mudridge who are standing down

AOB

Derek Catt introduced County Councillor/ District Councillor – Mr Phil King, who arrived late into the meeting to discuss and comment on the opportunity available to us to build a new scout hut in the Harborough Area.

Nick Fordyce, Deputy County Commissioner, thanked everyone in the District for the work they were doing to provide Scouting in Harborough District, especially the Group Leaders and those who volunteer with the young people every week.

Meeting closed 21:00 Minuted by Ruth Tallis

ELECTION OF DISTRICT TRUSTEES 2023

Position	Nominee	Nominator	Seconder
District Chair	Derek Catt
District Secretary	Jo Baynes Clarke	Elizabeth Cockbill	Sue Dove
District Treasurer	Eddie Harman	Pete Dove	Phil Reed
Elected Trustees (up to 5)
Elected Trustee	Jean Webb	Eric Gamble	Alistair Helm
Elected Trustee	Elizabeth Cockbill	Eddie Harman	Phil Reed
Elected Trustee	Phil Reed	Pete Dove	Debbie Billington
Elected Trustee	Phil Humphrey	Alistair Helm	Debbie Billington
Elected Trustee	Alistair Helm	Elizabeth Cockbill	Paul Allenby
DC Nomination (up to 5 or less if less Elected)
DC Nomination	Pete Dove
DC Nomination	Eric Gamble
DC Nomination	Ben Reed
Ex-Officio Trustees
DC	Paul Allenby
DESC	Toby Taylor
DSNC	Vacant
Youth Commissioner	Fred Cooper
Nominations to the County Scout Council
E-O DC	Paul Allenby
Chairman	Derek Catt
Secretary	Jo Baynes-Clarke
Treasurer	Eddie Harman
Youth Commissioner	Fred Cooper
Another	Eric Gamble
Another	Peter Dove
Another	Phil Reed

Trustees’ Report

Harborough District Scout Council

Trustees' Annual Report for the period 1 April 2023 to 31st March 2024

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
Paul Allenby	District Commissioner / Lead Volunteer		Ex Officio
Derek Catt	Chair		Ex Officio
Edward Harman	Treasurer		Ex Officio
Jo Baynes-Clarke	Secretary		Ex Officio
TobyTaylor	District Explorer Commissioner		Ex Officio
Georgie Dove	Youth Commissioner	From 12 March 2024	Ex Officio
Fred Cooper	Youth Commissioner	To 1 February2024	Ex Officio
Alistair Helm			Elected
Elizabeth Cockbill			Elected
PhilipHumphrey			Elected
Diana Webb	Badge Secretary		Elected
John Lacey		To 21st June 2023	Elected
David Mugridge		To 21st June 2023	Elected
PhilipReed		To 1 September 2023	Elected
Peter Dove			Nominated
Eric Gamble			Nominated
Ben 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 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 Committee consists of 3 independent representatives, Chair, Treasurer and Secretary together with the Ex Officio officers, Elected, Nominated and Co-opted members. The Trustee Board meets usually 6 times each year.

This District Trustee Board exists to support the District Commissioner in meeting the responsibilities of the appointment and also to support the Trustees 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 Trustee Board 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 fundraising. 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 4 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 Trustee Board 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 Trustee Board.
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 Trustee Board 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 Trustee 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
~~re~~ 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 Trustees 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

Supporting members of the District to the World Scout Jamboree in South Korea
Adults Award evening celebrating the achievements of our volunteers including National Awards
Online Scout Manager District Dashboard and Adults account with discount subscriptions
for sections
Appointments Sub Committee meeting monthly with District inductions and completion of
Module 2 training
Recruitment and induction of new Youth Managers
Support and advice to Groups
Running District events such as Fraser Shield.
Planning for an international trip to Kandersteg Switzerland 2025 for members of the
District
Supporting 1st Great Glen Scout Group on recruitment of new Adult Volunteers
Training and support for our new Leaders
Continued management of joining enquiries and waiting lists across the District
Support to 1[st] Fleckney Group on building of their new headquarters
Support to other Groups who are embarking on new building projects
Working to secure new meeting places in the town of Market Harborough to support the long waiting lists. Mainly at Wellington Place and Clack Hill estate
Member of Harborough Lottery to support the work on the Charity

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 Trustee Board considers that the District should hold a sum equivalent to 12 months running costs, circa £10,000.

The District held reserves of approximately £15,000 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 work on finding new premises within Harborough town.
Work on transition objectives

SECTION G DECLARATION

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

Independent Examiner's Report CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent examiner's report on the accounts Report to the trusteesl members of Hart)0rOh District Scixrts On accounts for the year ended 31st March 2024 Charity no (if any) 521764 Set out on pages 3&4 Respective The charws trustees are responsible for the [ryarati( of the accoLmts. responsibilities of The chartys trustees cOnser that an audit is rK)t required for this year trustees and examiner urKler sectK>n 144 of the Chanties Act 2011 (the charits Act) and that an indendent examinat is needed. tt is my resFX)nsibility to: examitE the aCcOts under secti{ 145 of the Charities Act. to follow the [CedureS laid down In the general DireCtsS given l)y U ChJty Ccmmtssl {untsr secticm 145(5Xb) of the Charrties A¢ aTh to sLite whethef particular matters have ccffne to my attention. Basis of independent My exaMInats was carri&l (xjt in accordance wrth general DirectThs given examiner's statement by the Chanty CcYnmissK)n. An examination includes a revEw of the accounting records kept by the charty and a CCAnpan"s( of the accounts presented wth those recorts. It also incIeS consideratK)n of any USUal items or disck)sures in the accounts, and seeking explanatI¢s from the trustees conceming any such matter5. The wocedures undertaken do rK>t provide all the ewdence Ihat would required in an audit, and consequentsy rK) Opini( is given as to whether acCntS ryesent a Irue aThJ fair view and the rewrt is limrted to those matters set out in t statement tlow. Independent In connecti1 1h my examinab"cfft. no material matters have come to my examiner's statement attentK)n (other Ihan that disclosed tklow ') which gives me cause to believe that in, any matenal respect: acCoLtg records were not kept in accordan wrth sectK)n 1 of the Charities Act or the accounts do tK)t acc1 wrth Ihe aCCntIj reclS I have CLYne across no Lher matters in C(neCtic wrth the examination to which attents(x) stK)uld be dra%w in cKder to enable a proper derStand1r) of the accounts to be reached. ' Pkase delete the in the brnckets rf t1Y () Tr)t appty. Signed: Date: 181h N)ri12024 Name: Gmn Rd Relevant professional qualificats'on(s) or body (if any): ACCA Address: 22 Goldsmrth Roaj. LE3 1 PT 11

Treasurer’s Report

During 2023/24 there was a surplus of funds amounting to £11,112 (£5,574 deficit 22/23) and the consolidated bank balance was £70,653. The majority of the surplus has arisen due to the timing of funds being received for the District Camp to Switzerland in 2025 (£8300).

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 £1,000 was made to them during the year.

Within the various bank accounts there are certain amounts 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 £15,161 includes £6,000 for Hungary District Events £13,968 funds relate to District Camp, Fraser Shield, Sectional Events & Gang Show* General £5,000 Reserves £15,000 Total £54,329

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.

Due to the District preparing accounts on the cash basis, we only recognise income and expenditure that appears on the bank statement in each financial year and the district income from membership fees is included in the above balances.

Financial Report

Recei ts and a ments accounts p p y

Period start date Period end date For the period To from 31st March 2024 1st April 2023 [31st March 2023 ]

Section A Receipts and payments

A1 Receipts	Unrestricted funds to the nearest £	Restricted funds to the nearest £	Endowment funds to the nearest £	Total funds to the nearest £	Last year to the nearest £
Donation	-			-	275
Badges	383			383	751
Fundraising	4,846			4,846	5,501
Membership Fees	47,520			47,520	43,452
Traffic Management	1,450			1,450	1,100
Grants	30,000			30,000	-
Interest	441			441	27
Trips & Activities	35,300			35,300	29,246
District Camp	2,540			2,540	2,648
Gang Show	-			-	-
Gift Aid	-			-	520
Subs	4,890			4,890	4,523

*Sub total*(Gross income for AR)	127,371	-	-	127,371	88,043

A2 Asset and investment sales, (see table).		- -	- -	- -
	-	-	-	-
	-	-	-	-	-
*Sub total*	-	-	-	-	-
*Total receipts*
	127,371	-	-	127,371	88,043

A3 Payments

Donation to PoppyAppeal	25			25	-
Badge Purchases	56			56	802
St Georges Day	1,835			1,835	-
Training& Leader Packs	-			-	1,852
Equipment	-			-	-
Equipment Maintenance	-			-	-
Gifts Comemorations	-			-	-
District Expenses	316			316	702
Insurance	768			768	1,683
Award Evening	789			789	642
MembershipFees	42,601			42,601	38,198
District OSM	1,935			1,935	1,935
Printing& Stationery	112			112	-
Room Hire	273			273	106
Branding& Media	396			396	562
Storage	-			-	-
Licences	268			268	246
Traffic Management	180			180	126
Miscellaneous	29,312			29,312	-
FundraisingExpenses	-			-	-
Trips & Activities	34,559			34,559	41,209
Fraser Shield Expenses	1,834			1,834	2,223
Jamboree Payment	1,000			1,000	3,333

*Sub total*	116,258	-	-	116,258	93,617

A4 Asset and investment purchases		- -	- -	- -	- 93,617 -5,575 - 65,116 59,541
		-	-	-
Camping Equipment	-	-	-	-
*Sub total*	-	-	-	-	-
*Total payments* *Net of receipts/(payments)* A5 Transfers between funds A6 Cash funds last year end *Cash funds this year end*
	116,258	-	-	116,258	93,617

	11,112	-	-	11,112	-5,575
	-	-	-	-	-
	59,541	-	-	59,541	65,116
	70,653	-	-	70,653	59,541

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

Unrestricted Restricted funds Endowment funds funds Categories Details to nearest £ to nearest £ to nearest £ B1 Cash funds Bank Accounts 70,653 - Total cash funds 70,653 - - ~~—~~ (agree balances with receipts and payments account(s)) OK OK OK Unrestricted Restricted funds Endowment funds funds to nearest £ to nearest £ to nearest £ Details B2 Other monetary assets ~~==5==~~ Fund to which asset Current value Cost (optional) Details belongs (optional) B3 Investment assets ~~===>~~ Fund to which asset Current value Cost (optional) Details belongs (optional) B4 Assets retained for the charity’s own use Badge Stocks 150 Fund to which liability Amount due (optional) When due (optional) relates Details B5 Liabilities ~~===~~ Signed by one or two trustees on behalf of all the trustees Signature Print Name Date of approval Derek Catt 1.5.24 ~~——~~ Eddie Harman 1.5.24

District Commissioner

Over the last year, like most recent years, Harborough District Scouts has increased the number of young people and volunteers, of course this is all due to everyone who volunteers time to help young people along with the groups delivering many activities during the year.

Our District Scout and Explorer camp to Switzerland in August 2025 is well under way now, with us doing plenty of fundraising towards the cost of the trip. The District has had some grants and had a curry night so far, with a Casino night coming up in November and much more. Groups themselves are also doing fundraising for their young people, along with the young people doing bits themselves towards the cost. We have two camps planned along with various different activity days over the next 15 months for us all to get to know each other. Many thanks to all adults for your work in making this camp possible.

I have been very touched by the amount of the highest awards handed out to the young people across all sections. Well done to all the young people for achieving the award, and volunteers for guiding them through the awards.

I would like to say a massive thankyou to Cathy Howells, Gary Duffin and Phil Reed for all their hard work they put into Scouting by being a GSL for their groups, and although they have either stepped down or will be stepping down shortly, we are very grateful that they will all still be involved in Scouting in Section Leadership or behind the scenes. I would also like to welcome Callum Ward into his new role as GSL for Fleckney Scout Group.

It was a great pleasure to see so many volunteers receiving awards at our District Awards ceremony for their roles they do to help Scouting, Many thanks to everyone who helped organise this event that I am sure will continue for the foreseeable.

Phil Reed has been a massive role model for Scouting at Group and District level for over 30 years, Phil has been the main volunteer over the years at District events including the Fraser Shield of which he was the main organiser. Phil has decided to step down and take a break from his roles at the moment, however I am sure we will have the pleasure in welcoming him back soon. Thank you Phil.

Thank you to Sally Gambles for starting Squirrels in the District, we now have six groups with Squirrels. Sally unfortunately has stepped out of Scouting so we wish her all the best, and hope Sally returns in the future.

I would also like to say a massive thankyou to Jo Baynes-Clarke for all of the admin she has done for me as DC along with all her many tasks she has in Scouting. Jo is stepping down from her District roles to concentrate on her GSL role at Foxton Scouts.

On behalf of every young person in the District, I can not stress enough how you as a volunteer - whether in leadership or behind the scenes - are helping young people of all ages from 4 years to 18 years gain self confidence and try many new activities that they will remember for the rest of their lives, of which they will be so grateful forever.

Thank you everyone, and I am so much looking forward to the year ahead.

Paul Allenby - Lead Volunteer / District Commissioner

Since I took on the ADC Squirrels role in February 2024, I have had the pleasure of visiting most of the Dreys in the District to help out or present Acorn Awards. They all have a varied and exciting programme with lots of young Squirrels enthused and enjoying themselves. We currently have 6 groups out of 8 with Squirrel Dreys, and a total of 9 Dreys in the District with one more hopefully opening soon. I am delighted to have Jo Osborne join me to help as District Squirrel Leader.

Last year, Sally Gambles organised a District Squirrels Day at the Sir John Lowther Centre, this was based on a nature theme and was a great success. Last April, it was wonderful for the Squirrels to join in our St. George’s Day parade and fayre for the first time, a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.

As I have only been in role for a few months, I have been focusing on visiting the Dreys and ensuring leaders know who I am and that I am available to support them if they need me. Going forwards we are planning lots of District activities, including a morning event on Fathers Day, every parent who brings a Squirrel will receive a bacon butty and the Squirrels will take part in various activities based on adventure and Scouting skills; as well as a cinema visit in December to watch a Christmas Film—we may even be joined by a special guest if he has time!

Thank you to all our wonderful Squirrel Leaders for everything you do to support our Squirrel family—we would not have been so successful, or where we are today, without you.

Chamaine Whitelock

Lead Volunteer / ADC Squirrels

Yet another challenging year for both the leaders and the Beavers themselves, 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 Harborough District Beavers offers 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 and organise a first sleepover too.

A lot of colonies saw changes in leadership over the last 12 months. The year saw 40 Beavers achieving their Bronze award across the majority of the colonies within the district.

4 Beaver colonies attended the County ‘Beaveree’ event which had plenty to offer for all the youngsters. Beavers were well supported at St. Georges Day parade and had attendance at this years Remembrance Parade held in the various sites throughout the District.

I would like to thank all the leaders and helpers, 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 role in the Beaver section.

Finally, I would like to thank both Ben and Paul for stepping in to support the Beaver section in my absence during the first half of the year.

Yan - Lead volunteer / ADC Beavers

(Poppa Beaver)

It is with great pleasure and pride that I present to you the Annual Report for Cubs for the year. As the Cubs Leader, I am thrilled to share the highlights and achievements of our dedicated Cubs and Leaders over the past year. |) \ . Throughout the year, our Cubs engaged in a wide range of exciting and > NY enriching activities designed to foster their personal development and instil important values such as teamwork, leadership, and community service. Some } of the highlights of our programme: Cubs embarking on numerous outdoor adventures, including hiking, camping, and nature exploration. Participation in various skill-building activities, such as knot tying, first aid training, and cooking over an open fire. Giving back to the community is an integral part of the Cub on | Scout program. Our Cubs engaged in several community service projects, including park clean-ups, food drives, and volunteering at local events.

The dedicated team of Leaders played a crucial role in guiding and mentoring our Cubs throughout the year. Through their commitment and passion, they have helped our Cubs grow not only as individuals, but also themselves as leaders. I am extremely proud of the achievements of our Cubs this year. Many of our Cubs earned badges and awards in recognition of their hard work and dedication. With many achieving the Chief Scouts Silver award. These achievements not only celebrate their individual accomplishments but also reflect the values and principles of the Cub Scout programme.

Looking ahead to the future, we see countless opportunities to further enhance and expand our programme. We are committed to continuing to provide our Cubs with meaningful experiences that will shape them into confident, responsible, and compassionate individuals. We are planning to expand the provision of District events over the next year, we have held Leader’s meetings to discuss how we can effectively implement these events. We are working to improve the communication and sharing of ideas between Cub Packs across the District, with this in mind we have set up a new Leaders group chat, which will continue to be developed over the year.

Together, we have accomplished so much, and I am excited to see what the future holds for the Cubs of Harborough District.

Hannah Dove - Lead Volunteer / ADC Cubs

Since taking on the role of ADC Scouts in the summer of 2023 I have been undertaking regular group visits to get to know all sections (leaders and young people). Feedback from scouts seems they are enjoying learning skills in scouting through the varied programmes our leaders are providing. 28 gold awards have been presented within the district, some groups are working tirelessly at getting young people through this award, others may appreciate a little extra support which I am looking to offer in the coming months.

We hosted a night hike in October, which was well supported by our scouts and proved to them how challenging navigating in the dark can be! Probably not helped by the rain that didn’t stop all evening either! Unfortunately several adult volunteers had to drop out at the last minute but those who did support there help was invaluable as always.

In December we held a quiz night, making use of Kibworth hut, hoping to encourage scouts from our village locations to join so not everything is held in the centre of Harborough, although a low turnout in numbers, a lot of fun was had with general knowledge and scouting questions plus mini physical challenges.

The Annual Fraser Shield competition of 2023 was held at Topstones on the weekend of ‘fathers day’, point noted to try and avoid this clash in future years. With 16 teams taking part plus a couple of entries who were there for the experience rather than being judged it was a fantastic weekend for all. King Provins lived up to there name and ruled the whole weekend, a great achievement from 3rds, finally knocking Bowden’s off there long run of winning over the years and Welland Valley scooping the Adams Challenge for great navigation on the Hike.

Thank you to all our amazing Scout leaders for everything you do for Harborough Scouts. I will continue regular group visits to offer my support to you all and look forward to a great 2024.

Jackie Taylor – Lead Volunteer / 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. Inclined ESU and Mad Hatters ESU are thriving with their well-established teams 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 launch of the Fleckney/Kibworth ESU at the start of April has been integral in ensuring that Explorers is open to as many of our 14 – 17-year-olds as possible. I look forward to reporting on some of the amazing activities they undertake in 12 months’ time with the support of the leadership team of Chris, Clair, Ivan and Josh.

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.

The Explorer spirit of adventure continued in 2023 with members representing the UK at the WSJ in South Korea. Despite the reports in the press, all the adult and youth members I have spoken to had a wonderful and inspiring time. Furthermore, over 20 of us defied ridiculous Brexit inspired logistical challenges to spend a fantastic week camping in Holland. From dyke-jumping to cycling and raft building to all you can eat pancake river cruising; it was every bit as diverse and memorable as all international camps should be.

In 2024, one of our leaders, Laura, is off to Norway for the Scout Roverway and Hungary is calling for many of the rest of us as we fly to Lake Balaton for our next adventure.

Toby Taylor - District Explorer Scout Commissioner

(Scout Active Support) SAS

This year the SAS has been engaged in covert operations! We have been quietly supporting the District Camps and St George’s Day celebrations. The Traffic Management Team have been out in force for this and Armistice Day Parades around the County.

The members who are going to Kandersteg have suggested doing a Gang Show, to raise funds for their trip next year—watch this space!

The Active Support Section is for any Adult who wants to get involved with District Scouting activities with or without a Scouting Appointment. So if you want to be part of a successful team, contact me and I’ll keep you informed of our next adventure!

Eric Gamble - SAS Manager

“In May 2023 it was the Coronation of HM The King and HM The Queen. As all the sections from all our groups organised and planned their own celebrations, for three of our District Network Volunteers operation Golden Orb was underway…

It was the Thursday before the coronation, when Jack (1st Bowdens) and Sam (1st Kibworth) quietly drove down to Gilwell Park in London. They had been given very little information and told not to share the news with anyone, but had been selected as part of a team of just 400 scouts from across the commonwealth to preform state duties for the coronation.

Just as they parked in the carpark, fellow Harborough volunteer Georgie (1st Bowdens) parked along side them, sworn to the same secrecy and attending the weekend as part of the Queens / Kings Scout Working Party.

Exactly how they would be involved soon became clear after checking in, when they were given their full roles and responsibilities. Georgie, Jack and Sam were stationed in various parts of London from Westminster, St. James Park, The Mall and Hyde Park. Having headed into Central London as early as 3am, State duties finished on Sunday and they all headed home to prepare for the Big Help out on Monday 8th before gathering once more at the county HQ where they were interviewed by BBC news.”

The above was written by Sam Arnold, and is an exciting example of some of the activities that Network members can get up to. This year three District Network members, along with two others from the County, will be embarking on their Explorer Belt Award which includes travelling to Greece for 10 days and completing a number of challenges. We look forward to hearing all about it.

If anyone is interested in helping co-ordinate Network activities, the role is still vacant so please so let us know.

The Scouting movement within Harborough has a fantastic track record for ensuring its many sections and groups are led by their youth members, and this has continued and been highlighted through

this year with several successful events throughout the District. In terms of Young Leaders, they are growing in numbers through the whole District and their presence certainly improves our young people’s experiences. As well as this, it’s allowed these Young Leaders to be fantastic role models within their Squirrel, Beaver, Cub and Scout sections.

This year, I’ve been lucky enough to attend several District events such as the Fraser Shield. This event highlights the brilliant work within the District to ensure everything is designed for our youth members, as feedback made by our Scouts in previous years will be used to develop the competition and make it a Camp which will benefit and develop our young people even further in future years.

I was also lucky enough to attend a meeting where some of our Explorers from the UK Contingent at the World Scout Jamboree shared their experiences in South Korea. Although the stories were varied, it was incredible to see them passing these stories to our other youth members and hopefully inspiring them for future camps, trips, and opportunities throughout Scouting. Hopefully this can inspire the next generation to continue through Scouting to experience these times to make friends and memories throughout the District and internationally.

Although I have stepped down from my role of Youth Commissioner due to time constraints, I will continue to ensure the District is youth led throughout and will continue to aim for Scouts to understand that the Scouting movement is designed for them to develop, learn and enjoy their time and I’m passionate to make sure this continues through the District. This most certainly won’t be the last you see of me!

Youth shape gives the Scouts the power to take the reigns and forge their sections into spaces to make friends and memories.

Fred Cooper - Youth Commissioner

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