9[th] Belfast Scout Group – Trustee’s Report – May 2017
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 operates. 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 to enable young people to take part in adventurous activities safely. Scouting’s beneficiaries are children and young people. The only private benefit from this purpose is that Adult Volunteers are trained to deliver the programme, but this is incidental and necessary because it is needed to operate in today’s society working with young people.
We had a very successful year, and as we started celebrating our 70[th] Anniversary in September we had many special events. Our Beavers aged 6-8 had really exciting times and earned many badges, with outings to District events, District sleepover and visit with boys from across NI to the Armagh Planetarium. The Cubs aged 8-11, also had a great year with many interesting badges done and special activities. They took part in the Belfast County Flag competition doing very well and 4 boys with Leaders attending a special County Camp to celebrate the centenary of that Section. The Scout Troop for boys aged 11-14 have increased their Scouting Skills and welcomed new Leaders. They learned very practical skills such as plumbing, wiring plugs, as well as Scouting skills.
The Cubs and Scouts had a joint camp at Crawfordsburn Scout Campsite doing Instructor-lead activities such as Archery, Grass-sledging, go-carting, climbing etc. It was a great weekend with Beavers joining for the day on the Saturday for more fun and activities.
We have almost full attendances each week and are very satisfied with the fun and fellowship between all Members and Leaders.
We look forward to more success in the future and plans are already in place for the next year, with full attendance of Leaders at our planning meeting.
All Trustees agree with the above.
Ann Anderson / Patricia Gordon / Samuel Anderson