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2024-12-31-accounts

SCARBOROUGH & DlStRICT SCOUT COUNCIL Chèrlty Commission Number: 524690 ReceÉpts and Payments Account for the year ended 31 December 2024 2024 2022 Unrestrlcted Funds £27712 £5 £4584 £3477 £5414 £2388 £1346 £2271 £0 Reslricled Fund5 Receipts Total Funds Total Funds Birch Hall Camp Birch Hall Grants Activities Explorers Explorer5 8nd young leaders subscriptions Membership fees received Inetl Explorer Camp Donations and Gift Ald SquSrrels Grants Bank Interest Training Income Uniform and Badges Robln Hood's Bay Total £27712 £500 £4584 £3477 £5414 £2388 £1346 £2271 EO £1458 £90 £274 £500 £26702 £0 £6126 £10416 £3222 £1976 £1197 £5600 £500 £495 E300 £472 Eiooo £1458 £90 £274 £500 £50014 £0 £50014 £58006 A55et and Investment Sales Robin Hood's Bay Sale of Building Total Recelpts £15000 £15000 EO £65014 £0 £65014 £58006

SCARBOROUGH & DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL Charlty Commi55ion Number. 524690 Recelpts and Payments Account for the year ended 31 December 2024 2024 2023 Unrestrlcted Funds Restricted Funds Payment5 Total Funds Total Funds Birch Hall Camp Activities Explorer5 Explorer Camp St George's Day Fundralslng Administration Uniforrn and Badges Tralning Robin Hood's Bay £17592 £17592 £4839 £8310 £1921 £30 £0 £17814 E4839 £8310 £6535 £13587 £1107 £152 £25 £255 £557 E140 £1592 £1921 £30 £0 £67 £1675 £225 £531 £67 £1675 £225 £531 Total Gross Expenditure £35190 £0 £35190 £41764 Asset and Investment Purchases Scouting £quipment Blrch Hall Development Totsl Payments £0 £107G4 £0 £D £18168 £ia764 £45954 £0 £45954 £59932 Net of recelptsllpaymentsl EI9060 £0 £19060 -£1926 Cash Funds Last year End Transfers between Funds Cash Funds this Year End £78090 £0 £78090 £0 £80016 £0 £0 £97150 £0 E97150 £78090

SCARBOROUGH & DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL Charlty Commlsslon Number,. 524690 Receipts and Payments Account for the year ended 31 December 2024 2024 2023 Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total Funds Total Funds Cash Funds Cash at Bank Cash on Hand £96951 £199 £96951 £199 £77573 £517 Tot31 Cash Funds £97150 £0 E97150 £7809) Non-monetary A5set5 Scouling Equipment Birch Hall Development Total Payments £0 £259752 £0 £1320 £248988 £259752 £0 £259752 £250308 Liabilities due now Payable in the future £0 £0 £0 £0 £0 £0 £0 £0 £0 The above roceipts and payments account and staiement ol assests and li3bllities were apporved by the Trustees on 1st April 2025 and signed on their behalf bv Signature Davld Ruston Chalr Graeme Jeffrey Treasurer

Independent examiner's report on the accounts

Section A Independent Examiner’s Report

Report to the trustees/ SCARBOROUGH & DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL members of

On accounts for the year ended[31st December 2024] Charity no (if any)[524690]

Set out on pages 1-3

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended 31/12/2024 .

Responsibilities and As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the basis of report accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s 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 I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have examiner's statement come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

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.

Date: 31/03/2025 Signed: Name: Lee Jones Relevant professional Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) (2004) qualification(s) or body Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) (2009) (if any): Address: 17 Sea View Close Scarborough, YO11 3JB

Oct 2018

1

IER

Section B Disclosure

Only complete if the examiner needs to highlight material matters of concern (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts: directions and guidance for examiners).

Give here brief details of any items that the examiner wishes to disclose .

Oct 2018

2

IER

SCARBOROUGH & DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 13[th] May 2025 7.30pm Scarborough Cricket Club

ANNUAL REPORT

SCARBOROUGH & DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

13[TH] May 2025

Scarborough Cricket Club, 7.30PM

AGENDA

1. Welcome and opening devotion

2. Apologies for absence

3. Governance topics

4. Review of the previous year

5. Making appointments

6. Any other business

7. Closing remarks

8. Presentations

DISTRICT LEAD VOLUNTEER’S REPORT

Hello Scouting friends!

After a few months, I finally found my feet in my new role, and look forward with great enthusiasm to the coming years as your Lead Volunteer.

Reflecting on the past year in Scouting, it has indeed been eventful. We have witnessed a change in Chief Scout, seen the implementation of a new membership system and team-based structure, experienced County’s first international Jamboree – Larkin24, faced challenges from the Great Orme inquest, and observed personnel changes within our district team. Despite these fluctuations, Scarborough and District has remained resilient and steadfast.

I am deeply humbled by the warm welcome received in my new role as District Lead Volunteer of Scarborough & District. I extend my gratitude to all the extraordinary volunteers who have supported me during my initial term in role.

A special acknowledgment is warranted for our longest-serving District Commissioner, Graeme “GY” Young. Over the past 11 years, his dedication has notably increased our youth membership by nearly 30% and ensured the district's overall success. Graeme has navigated the district through tumultuous times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and, along with the talented and dedicated teams of volunteers, spearheaded the transformative developments at Birch Hall; something I am delighted to say he is continuing with. His efforts have left an indelible mark, fostering unity within our district. As I mentioned at our Christmas Celebration in 2024, Graeme has been an inspiration to many, a friend to numerous individuals, and a support to all. His departure from the helm leaves a significant void, but his legacy will persist within the district.

Trevor, Graeme’s Deputy, also deserves recognition for his unwavering availability and faithful service. Trevor’s extensive contributions within the District Team have positively impacted countless young people, and his support as Deputy District Commissioner has been invaluable. Thank you, Trevor, for your dedication to Scouting in our district.

Our devoted District President, Bonnie Purchon M.B.E, continues to be a significant support, representing Scouting at public events such as the Remembrance Service. Her ongoing service is greatly appreciated.

The introduction of a new membership system and volunteering structure from HQ, coinciding with the change of District Commissioner, has presented challenges. However, it is commendable that day-to-day Scouting in Scarborough remains unaffected. The implementation of this system would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of our Volunteer Development Lead, Andy Jennings. AJ has provided reliable support, for which I am very thankful.

Scarborough & District faced a slight decline in the 2025 Census results, showing a decrease of fifteen young people and twenty-four fewer adults compared to the previous year. While disappointing, this setback is viewed as temporary, with early

signs of recovery already evident. Congratulations to First Scarborough and 2nd ELO for their notable growth in youth membership over the past 12 months with increases of 12, and 8 respectively.

We are fortunate to be collaborating with our county’s Local Development Officer, Liz Till, in revitalising Scouting in Filey. The successful launch of 1st Filey Squirrels and 1st Filey Beavers, which attracted significant local interest, is a testament to this effort. Appreciation is extended to Beryl, Lesley, Steve, Zoe, and Adam for their support. Liz is also taking her positive attitude and ambition to Whitby, where we hope to have similar success there with Eskmouth.

Gill and her dedicated team in the District Events Team have significantly contributed to our success by facilitating section, group, and district events. Their active and supportive engagement is crucial to our accomplishments. They may no longer be called Scout Active Support, but are no less active and supportive Scouters to me.

Noteworthy appointments within the district include Maisy as our first-ever Youth Lead and Simon “Butcher” as Activities Team Leader. Maisy’s early contributions and future plans are exciting, while Simon’s work in activity coordination promises remarkable outcomes.

It is with profound sadness that we remember Gordon Tyrer from 49th Eastfield, whose lifetime contributions were pivotal to the group's success. He will be sorely missed.

I take immense pride in announcing that Scarborough & District maintains 100% compliance in Safety and Safeguarding training, thanks to the collective efforts of all volunteers. Let’s keep that up and aim to remain fully compliant when the Safety training is due on 14[th] July 2025.

I won’t steal the thunder of the reports of Section Programme Team Leaders (Section ADCs) but commend each section for their enthusiasm, hard work and dedication to district events. Our District Sections and their annual competitions and events are a hallmark of Scarborough, admired by other districts. The amount of work that goes into their many District events is phenomenal.

Lastly, the nine groups across the district continue to make a direct impact on young people's lives. Visiting their sections, group events, and camps is a highlight of my role. The commitment, effort, and passion of Group Lead Volunteers and their teams are a source of immense pride for me.

We have got so much to look forward to, and there is so much work going on across the district, I can’t wait to see what the future has to hold for our district. I’m looking forward immensely to being able to make our next district camp happen, at Yedjam 2027!

As I look ahead to the future of Scarborough & District, I am filled with optimism and anticipation. Our collaboration, resilience, and unwavering commitment to Scouting will undoubtedly lead to continued success and growth. Together, we will navigate challenges, celebrate achievements, and build a brighter future for our youth and community.

Once again, thank you to all our volunteers for your dedication and hard work. Your contributions are invaluable, and I am honoured to work alongside you all.

Let’s make the upcoming years our best yet!

Thank you,

Steven Broadbent

District Lead Volunteer

FINANCE REPORT 2024

The annual accounts have been published and approved. They have been inspected by Lee Jones in accordance with the requirements of P.O.R. and the Charity Commission.

The District Trustee Board continues to manage the organisation’s finances very well and 2024 was a very positive year with a growth in overall member numbers and a healthy surplus in the accounts.

The Birch Hall Campsite continues to shine and the sustained investment in the site is reaping the benefits and is attracting users from far and wide year-round.

District Finances were further boosted by the sale of the unused Hut at Robin Hoods Bay.

Graeme Jeffrey

District Treasurer

SQUIRREL PROGRAMME TEAM LEADER’S REPORT

There are currently 5 Squirrel dreys in the Scarborough District (First, 2[nd] ELO, 42[nd] St Marks, 46[th] Westborough and Derwent Valley). Filey are opening their drey at the beginning of May so that brings the total to 6 and we look forward to welcoming them and their Leaders to our District Squirrel meetings and events.

All of the dreys have good numbers of Squirrels, with one having over 20, and are happy with their Leadership teams including an impressive number of Young Leaders. Waiting lists currently consist of those who are not yet of an age to join. apart from one drey which has a few waiting.

The Leaders all put so much time and effort into producing such exciting and diverse programmes for their dreys. The Squirrels spend time indoors and outdoors, have visitors and visit different places and work towards their activity badges.

The Squirrels have enjoyed visits to the lifeboat station, the beach, farms, chocolate making, The Street Community garden, Filey Bird Garden, the library and the Pantomime. They have learnt lots from visitors from the National Literacy Trust, Lily’s reptile rescue and others. They love being outdoors especially having campfires with songs, supervised fire lighting and making smores, bug hunting and making dens. There have been some very excited Squirrels at sleepovers, Group camps, and at Larkin International Camp. They have attended District Squirrel events – a Sports occasion and Teddy Bears Picnic with Kathy Seabrook providing musical activities and the District Carol Service as well.

There have been a huge number of Chief Scout’s Acorn Awards presented to some very hard working and enthusiastic Squirrels.

As always, I look forward to being able to visit the dreys and see all the fabulous Scouting that is on offer to our youngest members. A big thank you to all who have taken on Squirrel leadership - it’s so exciting to watch this section growing and to be a part of introducing a new generation to Scouting.

Lesley Usher Squirrel Programme Team Leader

BEAVER PROGRAMME TEAM LEADER’S REPORT

Another year has gone by in the Scouting calendar for Beaver Scouts in Scarborough and District. Personally I think we are still recovering from our 40th Birthday Celebrations in 2023 which indeed was a very busy year for us, finishing off with our Christmas party at First Scarborough.

2024 started off with Cub Link Day at Birch Hall. Our thanks, as ever, go to Colin, Ian and the Cub Leaders for making this an exciting and memorable day in our calendar.

The theme for last year's St George’s Day was “The Olympics”. Thanks to Phil and Derwent Valley for opening the service of celebration with an “Olympics” themed display.

Our day trip to Hull was a great success, although with road works we did lose a coach while the driver navigated the new road system in Hull. Fortunately the two coaches met up at the “Street Life” museum in the museum quarter. All the museums have free admission in Hull which helps keep the cost down for parents. A number of new leaders, GSLs (sorry group lead volunteers!) and parents who had never been to Hull were amazed at what activities you could do for free. The Street and Life museums are next to one another, a short walk away is the Education Museum where all the colonies played at schools on wooden desks complete with inkwells and black boards, easels and chalk! There is the Fish Walk round the city with metal fish embedded into the pavements and on seats etc. A challenge was laid down to the colonies to see how many fish they could find whilst walking around. Steve Dixon led the charge for First Scarborough with an amazing amount found and I visited the colony a few days later with a trophy which was presented to them for their efforts.

2025 sees three activities being arranged for the Beaver Scouts in the District:

“People who help us” is being sponsored by SALT (Scarborough And Locals Together). A badge has been designed for this event, which is to be held at 49th Eastfield HQ. We have the Police, Fire Brigade, a school cook, HSBC bank and water safety and others who are putting on displays for us and explaining what they do.

It's great to see so much enthusiasm for the restart of the Filey group. I have been there helping to run taster sessions for Squirrels and Beavers. In view of this, a day trip to Filey is being arranged and it is hoped that the new Filey group will join us.

In November Birch Hall is booked for a Christmas extravaganza sleepover with all the usual festivities arranged, from Christmas crafts to a visit from the man in red who will help fill their homemade Christmas stockings!

This is my last report as “Queen Beaver”. I have really enjoyed the last 40 years and have wonderful memories spent in this section.

Not to blow my own trumpet, but one of my Beavers is now a “Sir”, one has been awarded an OBE and another is a high-ranking officer on our adopted warship “HMS Duncan”, a job he would never have thought of taking up, I am told, if it was not for a trip to the Arc Royal that I arranged when a leader at Derwent Valley.

My many thanks to all that have helped me over the years, especially Dawn Stead who has kept me on track with the Beaver finances.

“BEAVERS ARE BEST!”

Beryl M. Lewis

Beaver Programme Team Leader

CUB PROGRAMME TEAM LEADER’S REPORT

We are pleased to present the report for the Cub Scout section of the District to the Annual General Meeting.

There are nine active Packs in the District. We are sorry that the Whitby Pack has still not been able to re-open following being closed during the pandemic, mainly owing to the lack of a leadership team. All the other Packs are doing well, although there is a great range in the numbers in the Packs. There has been a leadership change at 2[nd] . E.L.O. during the year. We continue to be thankful for the valued work done by all the Leaders in all the Packs. It is hoped that there will again be a Pack at Filey, following the re-opening of a Group in the town.

The Hilda Smith Trophy for 2023/24 was jointly won by 42[nd] . Scarborough (St. Mark’s) with 46[th] . Westborough (Panthers) being runners-up.

This last year has again seen a full programme of District Competitions and Events.

The Sand Sculpting competition was held in May on the North Bay beach, with the theme of “a tennis ball run with a designated start and finish”. There were fifteen teams from seven Packs, with the winners being 49[th] . Eastfield and the joint runnersup 46[th] . Westborough (Panthers) and Derwent Valley. Grateful thanks to District President, Mrs. Bonnie Purchon, M.B.E. for judging the competition.

The Cross-Country competition had to be postponed in March, 2024 and was rearranged for June and held at Scarborough Rugby Club. Four Packs entered and the winners were 46[th] . Westborough (Panthers) with First Scarborough as runners-up. There were eighteen runners and the individual winner was Spencer Baxter from 2[nd] . E.L.O.. Grateful thanks to D.D.C. Trevor Daniel for presenting the trophy.

In July, the Sports were held at Northstead playing fields. Traditional sports events took place. Seven packs entered, with the joint winners being 2[nd] . E.L.O. and 46[th] . Westborough (Panthers).

The Cooking Competition was held at Derwent Valley Headquarters in October. Five Packs entered and cooked a meal of burgers, boiled potatoes (mashed) and baked beans; bananas and custard (made with milk) and a drink of tea or coffee. The winners were 42[nd] . St. Mark’s and the runners-up were 46[th] . Westborough (Panthers). The Irton Garden Centre Trophy, awarded to the Cub Scout who made the best individual effort was won by Harry Johnson from 46[th] . Westborough (Panthers). The competition was judged by Mrs. Bonnie Purchon and Mrs. Valerie Rowntree.

The next event was the Quiz held at First Scarborough in November, when six Packs entered. The winners were Sleights Seekers and the runners-up 46[th] . Westborough (Panthers). There were questions on Scouting, General Knowledge, Science & Nature, Sport and History & Geography.

This was closely followed by the Swimming Gala, held on a Saturday evening in November at the Sports Village Pool. Six Packs participated. The overall winner for the individual events was First Scarborough with 42[nd] . St. Mark’s as runners-up, the 4 x 25 metres freestyle relay by First Scarborough with 2[nd] . E.L.O. as runners-up, the 3 x 25 metres medley relay for the Jim Ironside Trophy by First Scarborough with Derwent Valley as runners-up and the 4 x 25 metres freestyle relay for the Combined Trophy by 2[nd] . E.L.O. with First Scarborough as runners-up.

The Sixer and Seconder Christmas event at the beginning of December was a variety of games, followed by a three-course traditional Christmas Dinner served to thirty-three older Cub Scouts and eleven leaders from seven Packs.

The Carol Service was held at Westborough Methodist Church, and a separate report is given by the A.D.C. (Faiths & Beliefs).

Each uniformed member was invited to contribute a toiletry gift in advance of the Carol Service and then the following day a dedicated group of Cubs and Leaders took the gifts to nursing and care homes in the South Cliff area plus a few individuals. Grateful thanks to the District President, Mrs. Bonnie Purchon, M.B.E. for again organising this good turn event which was the fortieth year visiting homes on South Cliff. There was also a Christmas card competition across the sections with a good number of entries and a card going with each gift. Everyone is reminded that this is a District event not just a Cub Scout section one.

The New Year saw the Five-A-Side Football competition at the Hawkes Fitness Centre. Six Packs participated with 46[th] . Westborough (Cobras) as winners and as runners-up. Grateful thanks to Mr. Jamie Broadbent who was the referee.

The Sixer and Seconder Activity Day saw forty Cub Scouts and ten leaders from five Packs travel by coach to Beamish Open Air Museum. The day was very interesting and most enjoyable.

The Beaver Link Day organised by the Cub Scout section for the older Beaver Scouts was held in March. Forty-seven Beaver Scouts from eight Colonies participated in using Birch Hall wood, crafts, Kelly kettles, knotting, a physical challenge and tent pitching.

Immediately following the above event there was a Cub Link event, organised by the Scout section in which forty-one Cub Scouts participated, supported by thirteen leaders. There was a hike, a campfire and bases incorporating Scout section skills. Grateful thanks to A.D.C. Scouts, Jamie Broadbent and his team of Leaders and Scouts for the event.

The Cross-Country competition was held in April at Scarborough Rugby Union Football Club. Eight Packs entered and was won by 46[th] . Westborough (Cobras) with 2[nd] . E.L.O. as runners-up. There were thirty-three runners and the individual winner was Spencer Baxter from 2[nd] . E.L.O. Grateful thanks to Mr. Trevor Daniel for presenting the “Bridget (Biddy) Daniel” trophy.

All Packs have good programmes with a wide range of activities both indoor and outdoor, about which reports are received at the bi-monthly meetings.

Grateful thanks are expressed to the District Commissioners Mr. Graeme Young and Steven Broadbent, members of the District Team, Scout Active Support for all their interest and support, to the Cub Scout Leaders, the Assistant Cub Scout Leaders, Young Leaders, Pack Helpers and all Cub Scouts for their involvement and participation during the year.

Ian C. Marshall Cub Programme Team Leader

Colin T. Adamson Cub Programme Team Member

SCOUT PROGRAMME TEAM LEADER’S REPORT

The Scout section currently runs with seven troops across the district, which is equivalent to last year’s report. As per last year, Whitby currently remains closed, however there is hope that this may get going again soon. All the troops are doing well with numbers, with most having increased in numbers across the board. In recent times, there has been a change in leadership across many sections including

Maisy McLean taking the Lead Scout section leader role with First Scarborough and Ben Smith taking over the lead role at Eastfield. All other troops are positively run by the leaders, who continue to run exiting and adventurous programme activities.

Latest figures show the Scout section across the district has 155 young people which shows the strength of the Scout section, going from strength to strength!

Personally, I took over the role in September 2024 from John Tindall, who had held and improved the role of ADC Scouts for some time. John had provided consistently well-organised and executed competitions across the board and was very well respected in his role across the leaders and the young people at competitions. John was very keen on the one-team approach to the Scout section, and this saw very strong morale and teamwork across the leaders to the district events and competitions and I would personally like to pass on my thanks for the fantastic work, John put into the role and how he brought the Scout section together across the district! His work has given me a very strong platform to build on but big boots to fill!

I came into the role with a strong passion and enthusiasm to look at how we can improve things for the young people across the board, look to risk changing things ensuring we moved with the times and that things weren’t just done the way they always have been across the board because that was how we had always done it! I am also very keen on the togetherness of the Scout leaders and building on what John had instilled to keep the leaders happy and motivated.

The Falcon Trophy is an award with a lot of meaning, however as I have sought the views of leaders across the board, this seems to be more of an award for leaders than the young people so we are looking to change the way this is awarded in future, so the young people see the reward. In 2023/2024 First Scarborough were again the deserving winners of this award, making it 20+ years on the trot!

This last year has seen a busy and full programme of District Competitions and Events.

The competitive year began with the District Inchipist Competition at Birch Hall, which had several groups and ages taking part. The competition consists of cooking, camping, striking pitches, hiking, and various challenges along the way. This was won by First Scarborough who were a great example of the teamwork required for the competition.

The next competition saw Kontiki being held at Peasholm Park, which is one of the only competitions held in the public domain and this saw various members of the public stopping to see what was going on and the hard work being put in. We stuck with the construction of a flag on the raft, rather than cooking, and saw this worked once again. All the teams built a successful raft (although some fell in more than others!). 42[nd] St Mark’s won the overall competition for the first time since before I was born! First Scarborough ran away with the raft race competition, who were

almost tricked into doing another lap to keep it fair. This was, as always, a fantastic competition with exemplary attitude throughout.

Next saw the cooking competition, this time held at Eastfield HQ. Unfortunately, the usual professional chef was unable to attend through illness, however SAS stepped in to save the day and did a fantastic job! First Scarborough smashed the competition running away with the winner’s title!

The Swimming Gala saw five of the seven troops enter and 42[nd] St Mark’s comfortably claimed the title this time, however the competition more importantly saw unbelievable teamwork and encouragement for those not-so-confident swimmers, and it was remarkable the way the young people could put the competitiveness to one side and focus on what really mattered! Again, Trev did a fantastic job with the competition as always, One More Year?

Entering 2025, the 5-a-side competition saw the most teams enter with six of the seven troops enter. The competition was closer than ever this year and there was some great teamwork on show. 42[nd] St Mark’s were crowned the winners, failing to drop any points across the day. Thanks to Maisy and Matthew Harper (ELO) for timekeeping and tracking the scores.

February 2025 saw a new competition into the system. Personally, one of my favourite competitions through my Scouting journey was DONUT with Explorers. This has been run successfully by Chris and his team for many years so I thought, why not use this idea and adapt it for the Scouts so there is less of a gap between the sections as they move on. I created the District Incident Hike Competition, seeing five of the seven troops enter, with two troops entering two teams of up to six young people. Starting at Silpho, finishing at Birch Hall, along a 14km hike with six checkpoints en route, scored on timings and teamwork. The reward being the positive feedback from the young people themselves, and it was no easy work, each young person should be very proud of their efforts. Huge thanks to all the leaders including SAS for their vital help throughout, as without the leaders this would not have happened. Same again next year! 42[nd] St Mark’s won the competition, but this could not have been closer!

Recent weeks have seen the annual Shooting & Archery competition held at DV and First respectively. The day saw some great scores as always, a simple event however always executed to perfection. 42[nd] won the shooting with ELO winning the Archery. Thanks to Chris Tolley and Ben Smith for their efforts with this.

A special mention deserves to be noted for Ben Smith (Eastfield) who recently won an Unsung Hero Award at the celebrations in York. Ben has taken hold of the Eastfield Scouts Section and flourished, providing them with a safe and supportive role model and enhancing all their Scouting journeys. However, on one individual, he noticed a significant change in themselves and their wellbeing, removing them from an activity against the YP wishes due to his concerns for their health. Ben remained

adamant with the YP’s guardians on his concerns and persuaded he was taken to hospital for checks, turning out that the YP had a serious and life-threatening illness. Ben made efforts to visit the YP out of Scouting times and offer ongoing support for the family. Ben has played this down, seeing this as his role, however he has undoubtedly saved the life of a YP through his awareness and knowing his YP and without a doubt, an unsung hero award was the least he deserves. Ben is a credit to Eastfield, the Scout section, and the District.

The upcoming year sees some new and exciting changes and additions, with a district trip to Junior Warrior in Leeds, a Christmas district event, and more competitions to come!

A big thank you to District Commissioner Steven Broadbent for his great work taking on the strong platform left to him by GY and building on this, and his ongoing support to all the groups and leaders themselves. Thanks to SAS for their active involvement in all the Scouts’ events and to all the section leaders and assistant section leaders for working with me, supporting me in the role and allowing me to build on the great section we already have.

Jamie Broadbent

Scouts Programme Team Leader

14-24 TEAM LEADER’S REPORT

At last year’s AGM the Thailand Jamboree trophy was presented to the Extreme unit who had a good year competition-wise. They won the 5-a-side Football competition, DONUT and one of their teams won the London Monopoly Competition.

An all unit games evening was held on Friday 14th June.

Explorers and Leaders joined in the festive celebrations at the carol service in December.

On March 7[th] on a beautiful mild and clear night, DONUT was held. This was a successful and well-attended event with seven teams competing. The winners of the event were from the Extreme unit. Thanks go to Tony Barlow for organising the event and to all the leaders and Scout Active Support for running the checkpoints and catering.

Two weeks later on Friday 21[st] March, there was an excellent turnout again for the DONUT presentation and Explorer Quiz held in the foyer of Westborough Church. We had 15 teams competing. Trophies were presented to Extreme who won DONUT and after a three way tie and the need for two tie-break questions between two Extreme teams and one Phoenix team the eventual Quiz winners were Phoenix.

Thanks to our hosts Westborough Scout Group and Andy, Gail, Tony and Dave for organising the quiz and Tony for the fantastic presentation on the big TV screen, making the way the DONUT results were announced so exciting.

At St George’s Day Parade, Explorers had the honour of leading the short parade and carrying the St George’s Flag.

Well done to William Stewart who carried the Flag and the two escorts Eliza Hopkinson and Elle Peckitt.

All units are running quality programmes with lots of outdoor activities.

There are currently 79 Explorers within the District.

I would like to thank the leaders for their continued hard work in supporting their units.

Chris Blogg 14-24 Team Leader

ACTIVE SUPPORT TEAM LEADER’S REPORT

How have another twelve months gone by already?

We have helped at the usual District events including the Cub Scout Cooking competition, Scout Cooking competition, Cub Scout Quiz, District Swimming Gala, District Carol Service, and Explorers DONUT providing the soup stop.

In addition to the usual events we were pleased to be asked to judge at Inchpist last summer and help out with the new Scout DONUT type activity this year.

Requests for help have continued to come from individual Sections within various Groups in the District. This is what we are here for and we enjoy being asked to help. Please don’t ever think it’s too late to ask us, some of our requests have been within a few hours of the meeting time and we have often still been able to send someone to help.

We have continued to help at Birch Hall as and when needed for cleaning etc.

We still hold our social events so that we all have a chance to meet up. In the last year we have enjoyed games nights and the Blue Plaque Trail walk followed by Sunday lunch. In November 2024 we had our annual weekend at Birch Hall, we had a day at Elvington Air Museum on the Saturday and on Sunday we attended the Remembrance Day Service at Hackness. Most recently we had another meal out at the The Forge Valley in January 2025 and a Quiz/games night in March 2025.

Please remember if you have any Leaders who are leaving your Group but who may still want to be involved in ‘active’ Scouting, please point them in my direction. Although we enjoy our social activities our main priority is to support Groups and the District.

I would like to thank all the members of the SAS Unit for their continued support over the last year.

Gill MacCallaugh Active Support Team Leader

ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES REPORT

It has been a fantastic few months since I’ve been settling into my new role for the District. Firstly, I want to thank everyone for their support and being so welcoming. All our Young People already have great opportunities for activities within our District I look forward to growing this in time.

Our Archery and Shooting teams have run some great sessions, for both group sections, competitions and camps. I want to thank all the leaders who support these activities, but especially Chris Tolley and Jamie Broadbent for leading these offers. Having this offer by the District makes it affordable for Groups to be able to give their Young People these opportunities. The equipment we have for this at the moment is fantastic!

One thing I have been keen to increase is our water activities offer for the District. I would like to thank Oliver Haire for the huge support with this. Chloe and Steve have recently become District Scout Volunteers, who have a number of qualifications in running Canoeing and Kayaking activities and are just awaiting their Scout UK permits. We have worked with Scarborough Canoe Club, who are allowing us as a district to use their equipment currently stored at Wykeham Lakes at a discounted price. With Oli, Chloe and Steve the District is now able to offer Canoeing and Kayaking sessions at Wykeham lakes for up to 18 Scouts/Explorers at an affordable price for groups.

Tomahawk throwing is becoming more popular within the whole Scouting movement and it is brilliant that we now have a number of leaders and groups in Scarborough able to run these sessions including myself. One thing I plan to work on this coming year is giving support from the district to groups who currently aren’t able to offer this, to be able to.

Looking forwards in my new role, I want to be able to offer more activities, across all Groups and Sections. I want to increase our Canoeing and Kayaking sessions to

other sections, make information about how the district can support more accessible and support the District team. I appreciate this is a new role, but please get in touch about anything relating to permitted activities, third-party run activities you have questions about, and if you have any ideas or thoughts for the district.

Simon Butcher

Adventurous Activities Team Leader

FAITHS AND BELIEFS REPORT

The two main areas to oversee and deliver continue to be the District Carol Service and the District St. George’s Day Service.

Having been able to replicate the outdoor-style service indoors and have a warmer environment, the Carol Service will continue to be indoors. The 2024 service was held at Westborough. Again, there was no uniform, other than neckers and no flags. Christmas jumpers and hats were encouraged. It was a celebration of Christmas both sacred and secular. A service of readings and carols with a medley of songs to conclude.

All sections were represented, together with members of the District Team, the District Trustees and the Scout Active Support. The service was led by the A.D.C. (Faiths and Beliefs) and the talk given by Mr. Tom Clayton, the Methodist Lay Community Worker. An offering was taken and £320.69 given to the Forest School at Springhead School and was used to purchase waterproof clothing for the children. The District Good Turn of toiletry gifts and the Christmas Card competition were part of the event, with a gathering of uniformed members visiting care and nursing homes on the South Cliff the following day.

Following Queen Street Methodist Central Hall being found to be a most suitable venue, the St. George’s Day service was again at that venue this year. This year the theme was The Scout Law, with each Group presenting one of the seven themes through song, poem, drama and video. There was a good congregation present. An offering was taken and £173.79 given to Sidewalk, the Scarborough based Detached Youthwork project.

Investigations took place regarding a Parade and very useful information was received from two other Districts. There would have been a tremendous amount of paperwork to complete but ultimately, it was the cost involved that led to the decision not to have a parade. The cost would also have been an annual cost.

In addition to these two services, there are elements of the My Faith Activity Badges and the place of the Promise within the movement and I will be pleased to meet with sections and/or Groups if they wish to pursue these elements further.

Colin T. Adamson

Leadership Team Member (Faiths and Beliefs)

VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT TEAM LEADER’S REPORT

What’s in a Name?

Not a lot, thankfully!

The role is still about supporting those:

My Membership and Disclosure systems

For a lot of years now, Group Scout Leaders/Lead Volunteers (+ others in Groups) and District Section/Team Leaders were managing their responsibilities in the Compass database and Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) criminal record clearances effectively. Hence I have experienced little change in the move to new systems, and continue to advise, support and problem solve as necessary.

As with all organisations with responsibility for safeguarding and supporting young people, these are essential systems, and it must therefore be right in 2025 that individuals are responsible and accountable for inputting and managing their own data and compliance, with support. My thanks, as ever, to all of these volunteers.

The main thing is that we all ‘log in’ regularly to My Membership, check and undertake any ‘Actions’ and complete our ‘required’ learning in My Learning by the due dates. It’s not rocket science!

If you get stuck and cannot find your way, there are really clear user guides on www.scouts.org.uk which you can access easily at the top of the page when logged in to My Membership. There are videos but I find the simple ‘step by step list’ transcripts most helpful - I have had to use some of them several times before they logged in my memory banks and, even now, I often set off the wrong way. If those do not help you, please get in touch.

Welcoming new volunteers

One of the biggest and most welcome changes, from my perspective, has been the move from Appointments Advisory Panels to Welcome Conversations.

I must give a huge vote of thanks to Bernard Smaller - former Appointments Chair, Paula Tyrer - former Appointments Secretary and Graham North, Emma Jennings, Os Saraj, Paul Deighton & Pauline Hainsworth - former Appointments Advisory Committee Members, for the great job they did in clearing a massive backlog and delivering an efficient, much more friendly, supportive and efficient appointments

process locally since 2021. This paved the way substantially in experience for what is a significant but ‘welcome’ change in process.

Welcome conversations are required for all new volunteers, and a few ‘not so new’ volunteers who never held a role which was required to attend an Appointments Advisory Committee/Panel meeting.

They are led by the person responsible for appointing the volunteer, which in most cases will be the Group Scout Leader/Lead Volunteer or District line manager. Another volunteer who is independent (i.e. not from the same Group or team as the new volunteer) is also required to participate in the welcome conversation. Each of these must first have completed the short Welcome Conversation e-Learning, which is required learning for Group Scout Leaders/Lead Volunteers and District line managers, and have the Welcome Conversation Volunteer accreditation, which I can give.

However, provided they have completed the Welcome Conversation e-Learning and therefore have the Welcome Conversation Volunteer accreditation, it makes most sense for the experienced Section/Team Leader to lead the Welcome conversation with their new volunteer, with another experienced Section/Team Leader or Member from the equivalent Section (Squirrels/Beavers/Cubs/Scout/Explorers) from another Group. Hence we are encouraging as many experienced Section/Team Leaders & Members as possible to complete the e-Learning and gain the accreditation.

We also still thankfully have the services of Paula Tyrer – now Welcome Team Leader, and Emma Jennings, Os Saraj & Paul Deighton, Welcome Team Members, who are trained and accredited to participate in welcome conversations.

So, this is how it works:

The key is that it is the Group Scout Leader/Lead Volunteer or District line manager or delegated Section/Team Leader or Member closest to the new volunteer who leads their experience of the welcome conversation, with someone independent (not from the same Group or team as the new volunteer), promptly i.e. approximately 4 to 6 weeks after the new volunteer has started.

Details of those with the required Welcome Conversation Volunteer accreditation are on the District Directory on Dropbox. If you complete the e-Learning, let me know and I can give the accreditation and add you to the list in consultation with your line manager. The more the merrier, will spread the load and make the welcome most relevant to the new volunteer!

Learning

Most importantly and with huge thanks, Alan Burnham remains at the helm as Learning Team Leader! It is fair to say we are all learning together but thankfully with Alan generally at least one step ahead of us.

Please be patient and focus on your required e-Learning, within date, a small amount of which you may not have been required to complete previously.

If you want to continue or start additional learning towards a Wood Badge or have completed some of this learning and are ready to be assessed/accredited, please talk to Alan as the systems do not necessarily let us know in the way we might have imagined | ltmscarborough@gmail.com

Alan is of course also co-ordinating delivery of face to face learning, including but not only first aid First Response.

Again, a huge vote of thanks to Drew MacIver, who has steered and kept us afloat these past number of years on the first aid front. Drew is still with us as an ‘occasional’ First Response Trainer and providing input to the team but is focussing primarily now on his Group and increasingly Section roles.

We are joined afresh by Keith Underwood, with a professional clinical background in training in the NHS, and Sar Malia, both recently trained and having delivered their first Scouts First Response courses. Along with Drew, Keith and Sar are each District Learning Team Members with County accreditations as First Response Trainers, for which many thanks.

Former Training Advisers no longer have an additional role but are accredited Learning Assessors, able to assess/validate and input these to learning records.

Again a list of those with each accreditation is on the District Directory on Dropbox.

Awards & Recognition

It is only fair to acknowledge there is a considerable backlog of awards at all levels awaiting my attention in June, before the next national Scouts headquarters submission deadline.

For perhaps obvious reasons, following the unprecedented number and awards including higher awards for good service secured in the previous 10 years, I and others have struggled with recent commitments to be able to focus on these.

However, they are firmly on the radar and ‘to do’ list!

Any adult member can nominate any other adult member or associate member for a Good Service Award, made even simpler on the new electronic system in My Membership, subject to the recipient meeting the award criteria.

And finally…

As ever, if you get stuck or need advice, just ask.

With thanks.

Andy Jennings Volunteer Development Team Leader

M : 07777 667232 | E : adcgs.scarborough@btinternet.com