40[th] Belfast Scout Group
Group Report 2023-2024
Purpose of Charity:
Promoting the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potential, as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities.
Names of Charity Trustees:
David Scott, Interim Chair Laura Landi, Secretary Alastair Rankin, Treasurer Gillian Rankin, Group Scout Leader
Summary of main activities
The group has had an active year in which numbers increased to 48 young people. The Cub Pack welcomed Fiona Maguire and Carole Scott as Section Assistants and the Beaver Colony welcomed Polly Jones as Section Assistant from 1[st] Strenshall Scout Group. Ellen Schultz retired as Section Assistant and Josh Schultz moved to 90[th] Scout Group and we wish them well.
The Squirrel Drey enjoyed an exciting programme of stories, games, songs and craft activities and celebrated Chinese New Year, Mardi Gras and Diwali. They dressed up for World Book Day and learnt about taking care of the planet for Earth Day and World Ocean Day and enjoyed celebrating the Coronation. They took part in Belfast County and Lagan District events and raised funds for the Simon Community and Mencap NI. The exciting and varied programme resulted in the awarding of Squirrel Activity Badges and Challenge Awards.
The Cub Pack and Beaver Colony also had a busy and active year. Badge work included faith, art, music, entertainer and cooking badge awards. Cubs and Beavers enjoyed a sleepover at McCracken and a mini camp in the church grounds enabling them to experience sleeping outside for the first time in a safe environment. Cubs enjoyed exciting adventures such as caving, wall climbing, zip lining and canoeing. The Cub Pack and Beaver Colony continue to grow and flourish.
The group is extremely grateful to all the leaders, section assistants and occasional helpers for their dedicated and inspirational leadership and care of the young people.
Review of financial position
Group income amounted to £4,982 including a grant of £1,050 from the Fountainville Trust. Group expenditure amounted to £4,842 including the purchase of two tables, shelving and boxes. As a result, the balance at the bank increased from £9,275 to £9,415.
Public Benefit Statement
In carrying out their duties this year, the Trustees have had regard to the Commission’s public benefit statement. The Group provides scouting activities for children aged 4 to 101/2 which offer educational and physical activities to help children learn and develop.
The benefit which flows from our purpose is that young people are empowered to make a positive contribution to society through being engaged and supported in their personal development, including physically, intellectually, socially and spiritually.
This benefit is demonstrated through Scouting making a positive impact in our communities; preparing young people to be active citizens, embracing and contributing to social change; being as diverse as the communities in which we operate. These are evidenced by feedback from our beneficiaries and the wider community.
There is no harm arising from our purposes. Scouting operates within a framework of safety.
Gillian Rankin
Group Lead Volunteer 40[th] Belfast Scout Group