## 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group 

Annual Report & Statement of Accounts 1[st] April 2022 

To 31[st] March 2023 

Charity Commission Number:   104117 

**1 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group 

Registered Charity Number:   104117 



## _**I n d e x**_ 

## **Achievements and Performance** 

|Membership|…………………………………………………………………………..|Page|4|
|---|---|---|---|
|Statistics|…………………………………………………………………………..|Page|4|
|Achievements|…………………………………………………………………………..|Page|4-8|
|Highlights|…………………………………………………………………………..|Page|9|



## **Financial Review** 

|Income<br>………………………………………………………………………….. Page 9|
|---|
|Expenditure<br>………………………………………………………………………….. Page 9|
|Accounts for Year ended 31stMarch 2023<br>………………………………….. Page 10|
|Assets<br>………………………………………………………………………….. Page10-14|
|**Administrative Details**|
|Charity Name<br>………………………………………………………………………….. Page 14|
|Charity Number<br>………………………………………………………………………….. Page 14|
|Principal address ………………………………………………………………………….. Page 14|
|Charity Trustees in the year to 31stMarch 2023<br>………………………… Page 15|
|Advisors<br>………………………………………………………………………….. Page 15|
|**Objectives and Aims**|
|Summary of Main Activities<br>………………………………………………………. Page 16|
|Objectives for 2023/2024<br>………………………………………………………. Page 18|



**2 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Registered Charity Number:   104117 



## **Achievements and Performance** 

**MEMBERSHIP** At the commencement of this annual reporting period, our Group transitioned to the Green stage on our traffic light system. This positive shift allowed our members to resume all activities, including residentials and international events. Despite this progress, face coverings in indoor settings were still advised until April 25, 2022. 

During this reporting period, our membership experienced notable changes. The younger sections, Squirrels and Beavers, saw a slight growth. However, we observed a significant decrease in membership within Cubs (8-10 years), Scouts (11-14 years), and Explorers (14-18 years). 

Despite these challenges, we were delighted to host larger-scale Scouting family events, bringing our Scouting families together to participate in Platinum Jubilee celebrations. This period marked a positive turn, enabling us to offer a more exciting and engaging program for our members. 

It is important to acknowledge that we were still in the process of recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, I am thrilled to report that our Group delivered a vibrant program of activities for over 100 young people, supported by a dedicated leadership team of 30 adult volunteers as of March 2023. 

The Group also continues to have a partnership agreement with the County Nightowls Explorer and Network Scout Unit. 

Castlerock Scout Group still consists of 6 sections and caters for young people from the age of 4 years to 24 years in a rural location. 

## **STATISTICS** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Year 2020 / 2140<br>35<br>30<br>25<br>20<br>15<br>Boys<br>10<br>5 Girls<br>0 Leaders<br>Young<br>Squirrels Beavers Cubs Scouts Explorers Network<br>Leaders<br>4-6 yrs 6-8 yrs 8-10 yrs 10-14 yrs 14-18 yrs 18-24 yrs 14-18 yrs Total<br>3 |  BoysP a g e 9 101 [st]  Castlerock Scout Group 18 11 8 10 2<br>Girls 7 11 12 6 9 8 3<br>Leaders 6 6 10 7 4 0 0<br>Registered Charity Number:   104117<br>Total 22 27 40 24 21 18 5<br>Section<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




## **ACHIEVEMENTS** 

**SQUIRRELS** The During this reporting period, our Squirrel section exemplified resilience and creativity in adapting to the circumstances. The investiture ceremony, a crucial milestone for our young members, was delayed until a faceto-face meeting was possible. Despite leaders wearing face masks, the decision to hold this significant event in person for the young Squirrels was deemed essential. 

Following the Easter Break, which also provided an opportunity for parents to proudly sew on their children's hard-earned badges, the Squirrels enthusiastically embraced outdoor activities. They explored the local forest, engaged in beach games, and ventured into the surrounding area, making the most of the natural environment. 

The Squirrel section organised a sports day and various outdoor activities, fostering a spirit of teamwork among the young members. Additionally, they delved into the world of science and creativity by conducting experiments and creating slime. The Squirrels took part in planting seeds and diligently recorded the growth process, learning valuable lessons about nature and cultivation. 

Expressing their artistic talents, the Squirrels immersed themselves in crafting activities, creating items that are now proudly displayed in numerous homes across the area. Their dedication and enthusiasm did not go unnoticed, resulting in the accumulation of many badges and, notably, some achieving the prestigious Chief Scout Acorn Award, a testament to their hard work and commitment. 

**BEAVERS** The Beavers section experienced a positive increase in membership under the guidance of a dedicated new leadership team during this reporting period. The fresh and enthusiastic team engaged in brainstorming sessions, planning, and delivering exciting programs that resonated well with the young Beavers. 

As part of their community involvement, the Beavers participated in Parliament Week and had the honour of a visit from our local representative, Claire Sugden. Seizing the opportunity, the Beavers engaged in a democratic process to choose the theme for their upcoming summer camp. Each leader presented a camp theme, and after thoughtful consideration and voting by the Beavers, a 

## **4 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Registered Charity Number:   104117 



resounding majority decided on a Harry Potter theme for our planned summer camp in June 2023. 

The Beavers also enjoyed a day at the County Fun day at Fulton's Farm, where they had a mud-squelching fun day, picked their own pumpkins, and participated in various autumnal activities. The section showcased their creativity through meticulous crafts, ranging from Christmas wreaths to Mother’s Day photo frames and Easter windmills. 

Diversity and learning were key components of the Beavers' activities, as they explored topics such as healthy eating, celebrated Chinese New Year, practiced first aid skills on their teddies, and contributed to the Big RSPCA Bird Watch by making bird feeders. A memorable highlight was a visit from Cassie’s Creatures, where the Beavers met various animals, including Willow the Skunk, an Owl, a tortoise, bullfrog and even an armadillo. 

The broad spectrum of engaging activities allowed the Beavers to earn a wealth of badges, with many achieving their Top Award of Chief Scout Bronze Award. 

**CUBS** The Cub section celebrated the eagerly awaited return to in-person activities and residentials during this reporting period, bringing a renewed sense of excitement and engagement among our members. 

Emphasising essential life skills, the Cubs delved into first aid, learning valuable knowledge on how to respond in emergencies. Pioneering projects were undertaken, showcasing their knot skills as they constructed a tent frame that doubled as a shelter frame. The forest became their playground for navigation challenges, scavenger hunts, and orienteering, providing a fun and educational experience about local nature. 

Taking advantage of better weather, the Cubs enjoyed beach games and water activities on Castlerock beach. A significant milestone was achieved with the first residential experience post-COVID, including an overnight camp in the hall and thrilling outdoor activities at the Jungle NI. The Cubs conquered the low ropes course, abseiling, and engaged in various team-building adventures. 

In the spirit of the festive season, the Cubs brought joy with a Virtual Advent Calendar, where each Cub showcased their talents, shared jokes, or interesting facts. 

They Signed their names and reciting the Cub Promise in sign language added a meaningful touch to their skillset. 

## **5 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group 

## Registered Charity Number:   104117 



Preparations for Scouting Families Platinum Jubilee celebrations included crafting crowns, and an array of posters that brightly decorated the hall. 

Fabric Christmas tree decorations, and bracelets for Mother's Day were crafted. The Cubs participated in a poll on the best crisps, made paracord keyrings, and engaged in a week of random acts of kindness. A visit from Wolfpack Walks highlighted responsible pet ownership and the role of assistance dogs. 

Musical exploration featured a lively session with bongo drums, adding a rhythmic dimension to their activities. Excelling in the County Cub Quiz, the Cubs secured first place, showcasing their knowledge and teamwork. The dedication to learning was further evidenced by their pursuit of badges, ranging from Communicator to the First Aid badge. 

The reporting period concluded with a visit from Cassie’s Creatures, igniting excitement among the Cubs. The active participation of the Cubs has resulted in numerous badges, with many achieving the prestigious Chief Scout Silver Award. 

They worked on many badges from Communicator to first aid badge but finished this reporting period with a visit from Cassie’s creatures and there were lots of excitement. With such an active Cub Pack, the parents had many badges to sew on along with many earning their Chief Scout Silver Award. 

**SCOUTS** Under the guidance of a new leadership team, the Scout section commenced its activities slightly later than the other sections in mid-October. Despite the delayed start, the new team demonstrated effective teamwork and successfully planned and delivered an engaging and diverse program for the Scouts. 

The Scouts delved into the world of technology by coding with Raspberry Pi equipment, providing them with valuable skills in a rapidly advancing digital landscape. Nighttime hikes added an element of adventure and exploration to their experiences, fostering a sense of friendship and teamwork. 

Participation in the County dodgeball competition showcased the Scouts' competitive spirit and sportsmanship. Bowling outings provided a more relaxed and social atmosphere, reinforcing the importance of enjoying leisure activities together. 

The Scouts also honed their outdoor skills through activities such as backwoods cooking, treasure hunts, and various outdoor challenges. These experiences not 

## **6 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Registered Charity Number:   104117 



only encouraged teamwork but also allowed the Scouts to connect with nature and build resilience. 

The new leadership team's dedication to providing a well-rounded program, balancing fun, education, and outdoor activities, has undoubtedly contributed to the Scouts' personal growth and enjoyment within the Scouting community. 

The Scout section demonstrated proactive preparation for outdoor adventures by practicing the setup of Icelandic tents. This practical exercise ensured that the required camping equipment for their upcoming weekend camp to TOE camp was not only serviceable but also ready for immediate use. 

In a significant achievement, two former Scouts from the section successfully secured a spot in the World Scout Jamboree (WSJ) scheduled to take place in South Korea in August 2023. Taking on the role of Scout Ambassadors for the Group, they undertook the responsibility to represent the Scout community with pride. 

To support their participation in the WSJ and alleviate the associated costs, these dedicated Scouts took the initiative to organise and carry out fundraising activities. Their commitment to contributing towards the expenses of their trip showcases not only their enthusiasm for the Scouting movement but also their sense of responsibility and dedication to their goals. 

The Scout section is proud to have such motivated individuals who not only excel in their Scouting endeavours but also actively work towards broader opportunities and experiences on a global scale. We commend their achievements and look forward to witnessing their continued success in both their fundraising efforts and their roles as Scout Ambassadors. 

**EXPLORER** During this reporting period, the Nightowl Explorer and Network Scout Unit experienced a modest reduction in numbers. The unit played a crucial role in providing a welcoming space for members from Ballymoney Scout Group after their previous Explorer provision closed. 

Significantly, as the Scout leader in Ballymoney took the initiative to establish their own Explorer Unit, some members opted to return to the reestablished Ballymoney unit. This shift in membership reflects the dynamic nature of Scouting units and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. 

While facing a reduction in numbers, the Nightowl Explorer and Network Scout Unit remained committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment 

**7 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Registered Charity Number:   104117 



for its members. During this reporting period, the Nightowl Explorer and Network Scout Unit demonstrated a commendable commitment to community service and outdoor activities. 

The unit actively engaged in a community project by conducting a vote, and the members collectively decided to create blankets out of crisp packets for the homeless. Additionally, they crafted toiletry hampers for residents in local care homes, showcasing their dedication to making a positive impact in the community. Resuming their expeditions, the Nightowls participated in a practice hike for their Platinum Award. In a quest for outdoor culinary skills, the unit experimented with cooking various types of food on trangias, critically weighing the positives and negatives of each method. 

Balancing adventure with recreational activities, the unit enjoyed bowling, gokarting, and various outdoor pursuits, including backwoods cooking. Special occasions were celebrated with a Halloween activity day, a mocktails evening, 5 minute ice cream and the creation of beautiful flower-shaped cakes for Mother's Day. 

Highlighting their commitment to the Scouting ethos, some members took on the role of young leaders, actively participating in the planning and delivery of activities for younger sections. This involvement not only enriched the experiences of the younger Scouts but also contributed to the leadership and personal development of the Nightowls. 

The Nightowl Explorer and Network Scout Unit's multifaceted engagement in community service, outdoor adventures, and mentorship activities reflects their dedication to the principles of Scouting. We commend their efforts and look forward to their continued positive contributions. 

**HIGHLIGHTS** The reporting period commenced on a positive note as leaders eagerly discussed plans for camps and residentials. However, the highlight of this reporting period was the joyous celebration of the Platinum Jubilee for our Scouting families. 

Under the warmth of the sun, we extended a heartfelt invitation to our Scouting families to join us for The Big Lunch, where each family brought their own picnic. Adding a touch of creativity, families were encouraged to bring along their own cakes styled in a platinum theme, fostering a sense of shared joy and celebration. 

## **8 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group 

## Registered Charity Number:   104117 



The day unfolded with various engaging activities, including a fancy dress competition, family bingo, large outdoor games, face painting, dance competitions, and more. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, friendship, and the simple joy of being together as one big Scouting family. 

The highlight of the day was the shared cake-cutting ceremony, symbolising the unity and shared experiences of our Scouting community. It was heartwarming to witness the vibrant and diverse Scouting families coming together, enjoying each other's company, and creating lasting memories during this fabulous Jubilee celebration. 

As we reflect on this period, we express gratitude to our dedicated leaders and the entire Scouting community for their enthusiastic participation and contribution to the success of this joyous celebration. Looking ahead, we remain committed to fostering the spirit of togetherness and shared adventures within our Scouting family. 

## **FINANCIAL REVIEW** 

The Scout Group were granted a Non-Generic Grant from the Education Authority amounting to £2,200. This funding has proven to be a valuable asset, supporting various essential aspects of our operations. 

The grant played a crucial role in facilitating the purchase of badges for the Group, ensuring that our members are recognised and celebrated for their achievements. Additionally, the funds were allocated towards insurance coverage, guaranteeing the safety and well-being of our members during Scouting activities. 

Vital repairs for our Minibus were also made possible through this grant, ensuring the reliability and functionality of our transportation, a key component in facilitating our outdoor adventures and expeditions. Furthermore, a portion of the funding was allocated to secure membership to the online Scout Manager system. This digital platform aids in efficiently recording and managing our members' badge work, streamlining administrative processes. 

In addition to the grant, the Group successfully resumed fundraising activities. The Christmas Quiz, in particular, proved to be a triumphant event, raising much-needed funds totalling £1,566.95. These funds are instrumental in sustaining and enhancing our Scouting programs, providing diverse and enriching experiences for our members. 

## **9 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group 

## Registered Charity Number:   104117 



## _**1[st] Castlerock Scout Group**_ 

_**Registered Charity Number: 104117 1st April 2022 to 31[st] March 2023**_ 

|Item|Income<br>Item<br>Expenditure|Income<br>Item<br>Expenditure|Income<br>Item<br>Expenditure|Income<br>Item<br>Expenditure||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|**_Balanceat_**<br>**_01.04.22_**|**Unrestricted**<br>**Funds**|**Restricted**<br>**Funds**|||**£ 3,018.69**|
|**_EABlock Grant_**|£2,200||**Unity Insurance**<br>**Sundries**|£524<br>£615||
||||**Repairs**<br>**Transport**<br>**AA**|£780<br>£440<br>£193.50||
|**_Income_**|£1,457.09<br>£424.90||**Badges,**<br>**Uniform &**<br>**Scarves**|£764.80||
|**_Fundraising_**|£1,566.95||**Membership /**<br>**Subscription**<br>**Fees**|£82.10<br>£43.58<br>£19.98||
||||**Capitation**|£3,686.50||
|**_Membership_**|£3,178.35||**Camps & Events**|£1,100||
|**_TOE Camp_**|£280||**Bank Fees**|£37.92||
|**_Bank Interest_**|£3.97|||||
|**_INCOME_**<br>**_TOTAL_**<br>**_INCOME_**|£9,111.26|£0.00|**_TOTAL_**<br>**_EXPENDITURE_**|**£8,287.38**||
||**£9,111.26**|||||
|**Closing Balance at 31st March 2023**|||||**£3,842.57**|



_**Opening Balance at 1[st] April 2022 £  3,018.69 Add Income +£  9,111.26 - Minus Expenditure £  8,287.38 Closing Balance at 31[st ] March 2023 £    3,842.57**_ 

**10 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Registered Charity Number:   104117 



**ASSETS** 

||**1ST CASTLEROCKSCOUTGROUP**<br>**ASSETREGISTER**|**1ST CASTLEROCKSCOUTGROUP**<br>**ASSETREGISTER**|
|---|---|---|
||**ASSETREGISTER**||
|CSGB5 - 1|**BUNGALOW5 MESS TENT**|**NEEDSCLEANED**|
|CSGB5 - 2|**BUNGALOW5 MESS TENT**||
|CSGGD - 1|**MESSGROUNDSHEET**||
|CSGGD - 2|**MESSGROUNDSHEET**||
|CSGV5 - 1|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **||
|CSGV5 - 2|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **||
|CSGV5 - 3|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **||
|CSGV5 - 4|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **||
|CSGV5 - 5|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **||
|CSGV5 - 6|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **|**TO BE REPAIRED**|
|CSGV5 - 7|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **|**TO BE REPAIRED**|
|CSGV5 - 8|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **|**TO BE REPAIRED**|
|CSGV5 - 9|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **||
|CSGV5 - 10|**VANGOFORCETENMK 5 **||
|CSGT3 - 1|**VANGOTEMPEST300**||
|CSGT3 - 2|**VANGOTEMPEST300**||
|CSGT3 - 3|**VANGOTEMPEST300**||
|CSGT3 - 4|**VANGOTEMPEST300**||
|CSGT3 - 5|**VANGOTEMPEST300**||
|CSGT3 - 6|**VANGOTEMPEST300**||
|CSGT3 - 7|**VANGOTEMPEST300**||
|CSGT3 - 8|**VANGOTEMPEST300**||
|CSGIC - 1|**ICELANDICII**||
|CSGIC - 2|**ICELANDICII**||
|CSGIC - 3|**ICELANDICII**||
|CSGIC - 4|**ICELANDICII**||
|CSGIC - 5|**ICELANDICII**||
|CSGIC - 6|**ICELANDICII**|**TO BE REPAIRED**|
|CSGIC - 1|**ICELANDICII FLYSHEET**||
|CSGIC - 2|**ICELANDICII FLYSHEET**||
|CSGIC - 3|**ICELANDICII FLYSHEET**||



**11 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group 

Registered Charity Number:   104117 



**ASSETS** 

||**1ST CASTLEROCKSCOUTGROUP**<br>**ASSETREGISTER**|**1ST CASTLEROCKSCOUTGROUP**<br>**ASSETREGISTER**|
|---|---|---|
||**ASSETREGISTER**||
|CSGIC - 4|**ICELANDICII FLYSHEET**||
|CSGIC - 5|**ICELANDICII FLYSHEET**||
|CSGIC - 6|**ICELANDICII FLYSHEET**||
|CSGTT - 1|**TOILETTENT**||
|CSGDS - 1|**DINING SHELTER**||
|CSGFG - 1|**GASFRIDGE**|**DUESERVICE**|
|CSGFG - 2|**GASFRIDGE**|**DUESERVICE**|
|CSGBR - 1|**CAST IRON RINGBURNER**||
|CSGBR - 2|**CAST IRON RINGBURNER**||
|CSGBBQ - 1|**GASGRIDDLE**||
|CSGFBQ - 1|**GAS FOLDABLEBBQ**|**TO BE SERVICED**|
|CSGSS -1|**SCOUTSHELTER**||
|CSGCT - 1|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|CSGCT - 2|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|CSGCT - 3|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|CSGCT - 4|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|CSGCT - 5|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|CSGCT - 6|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**|**TO BE REPAIRED**|
|CSGCT - 7|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|CSGCT - 8|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|CSGCT - 9|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|CSGCT - LDR|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|CSGCT - LDR|**CORTESOCTAGONALTENT**||
|3|**CLICCLACSOFABEDS**||
|6|**RASPBERRYPI DESKTOPDISPLAY**||
|6|**RASPERBERYYPI MOUSE**||
|6|**RASPBERRYPI KEYBOARDS**||
|6|**RASPBERRYPI CAMERABOARD**||
|6|**RASPBERRYPI 4 MODELB 2GB**||
|1|**RASPBERRYPI CLASSROOMPACK**||
|1|**GAZEBO**||



**12 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group 

Registered Charity Number:   104117 



**ASSETS** 

||**1ST CASTLEROCKSCOUTGROUP**<br>**ASSETREGISTER**|**1ST CASTLEROCKSCOUTGROUP**<br>**ASSETREGISTER**|
|---|---|---|
||**ASSETREGISTER**||
|4|**TABLES**|**I DAMAGED**|
|1|**ALTAR FIRE**||
|12|**PIONEERING POLES**||
|4|**PATROL BOXES**||
|4|**WATER CARRIERS**|**2 DAMAGED**|
|6|**FOLDINGSEATS**||
|1|**GASBURCOWATERBOILER**||
|1|**WHEELBARROW**||
|20|**BIKES**||
|20|**PANNIERS**||
|20|**HELMETS**||
|5|**CYCLEREPAIR KITS**||
|4|**COOL BOXES**|**1 DAMAGED**|
|1|**PORTABLE STOVE**||
|6|**CAMP BEDS- WOODEN**||
|6|**CAMP BEDS- FOLDING**|**NEEDREPAIRED**|
|20|**INFLATABLE ROLL MATS**||
|8|**DINING BENCHES**||
|1|**PROJECTOR**||
|1|**HP PRINTER**||
|VARIOUS|**POTS**||
|VARIOUS|**COOKING UTENSILS**||
|1|**VW TRANSPORTERMINIBUS**||
|2|**LENOVO7” TAB3 **||
|1|**SAMSUNG40” TV**||
|1|**EPSONPROJECTOR**||
|1|**OPTIMO92” PROJECTORSCREEN**||
|1|**A3 LAMINATOR**||
|1|**OPTIMOPROJECTORMOUNT**||
|1|**BROTHERJ6930 PRINTER**||
|3|**HP CHROMEBOOKS**||



**13 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group 

Registered Charity Number:   104117 



||||
|---|---|---|
|10|**V-TECHKIDDIEZOOMCAMERAS**||
|10|**V-TECHKIDDIEZOOMCAMERA**<br>**CASES**||
|6|**4 PACK OFWALKIETALKIES**||
|10|**VANGONYX300 TENTS**||
|2|**GASBOTTLES**||
|1|**HALFBARRELCHARCOALBBQ**|**NEEDSREPAINTED**|
|1|**WINDBREAKER**||
|8|**POP UPTENTS**||
|1|**PULLALONGCART**||
|2|**AQUAROLL**||
|2|**INSULATINGFOODBOX**||
|1|**EXTRALARGECOOLBOX**||
||||



## **ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS** 

Charity Name: 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Charity Number: NIC 104117 

Principal addresses: 

## **Weekly Meetings held at** 

## **Correspondence Address** 

Peter Thompson Hall 

48 Dunboe Gardens 

Freehall Road 

Articlave 

Castlerock 

BT51 4XN 

BT51 4TR 

## **14 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Registered Charity Number:   104117 



Charity Trustees in the year to 31st March 2023 

Chairperson: Stephen Lavery Group Scout Leader: Stephanie Meikle Secretary: To be Appointed Treasurer: Adam Meikle Squirrel Leader: Bronagh Steede Beaver Scout Leader: Caitlin Leslie Cub Scout Leader: Paul Meikle Scout Leader: Karl Fleming Explorer Scout Leader: Paul Meikle County Youth Commissioner: Joshua Dripps 

Other Executive Members on Committee 

Squirrel Representative: Lauren Walker Beaver Parent Representative: Lucy Oates Cub Parent Representative: Jonathan Steen Scout Parent Representative: Gillian Fleming Explorer Parent Representative: Sharon Leslie 

## **A d v i s o r s** 

**Banking:** Danske Bank 22 The Diamond Coleraine 

BT52 1DE 

**15 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Registered Charity Number:   104117 



**Insurance** Unity Insurance Services 

10 & 10A Lancing Business Park The Quadrant 60 Marlborough Road 

Lancing BN15 8UW 

## **OBJECTIVES AND AIMS** 

## **Summary of Main Activities** 

Platinum Jubilee Celebration: 

Hosted a grand celebration for the Platinum Jubilee, bringing together Scouting families for a day filled with family picnics, creative cakes, fancy dress competitions, outdoor games, and shared laughter. 

Community Service Projects: 

Engaged in several local environmental projects, demonstrating the Scout Group's commitment to making a positive impact in the community. 

Section-Specific Sleepovers and Residentials: 

Planned and executed section-specific sleepovers and residentials, such as the Harry Potter-themed sleepover for Beavers, a weekend residential in Lorne for Cubs, and a camping adventure for Scouts in Crawfordsburn. 

Achievement of Highest Awards: 

Supported and celebrated the achievement of highest awards by members across all sections, recognising their dedication, hard work, and contributions to Scouting. 

Outdoor Adventures and Expeditions: 

Resumed expeditions, including a practice hike for the Platinum Award, outdoor cooking experiments, and various adventurous activities such as go-karting, bowling, and backwoods cooking. 

## **16 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group 

## Registered Charity Number:   104117 



Special Themed Days: 

Organised special themed days, including a Halloween activity day, a mocktails evening, and the creation of flower-shaped cakes for Mother's Day. 

Youth Leadership Development: 

Encouraged youth leadership by having some members serve as young leaders, actively participating in the planning and delivery of activities for younger sections. 

Virtual Advent Calendar: 

Created a Virtual Advent Calendar during December, with each Cub showcasing their talents, telling jokes, sharing facts, and fostering a sense of creativity and community. 

Inclusive Family Lunch: 

Hosted an inclusive family lunch where Scouting families shared picnics, creatively styled cakes, engaged in a fancy dress competition, played family bingo, and enjoyed various outdoor games. 

Educational and Cultural Activities: 

Organised educational activities such as first aid learning, pioneering projects, and orienteering. Also celebrated cultural events like Chinese New Year and practiced sign language for the Cub Promise. 

These main activities reflect the diverse and enriching experiences provided by the Scout Group, fostering personal growth, community engagement, and a spirit of friendship among its members. 

We celebrate the achievements of our members, volunteers, and Scouting families with enthusiasm, ensuring that each success is acknowledged, and create an atmosphere filled with joy, laughter, and a sense of accomplishment. 

By actively pursuing these aims, we aim to create a vibrant and supportive Scout Group that not only provides exciting opportunities for personal development but also contributes positively to the wider community. 

**17 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Registered Charity Number:   104117 



## **Objectives for 2023 /2024** 

As we step into the year 2023, our Scout Group remains committed to providing enriching opportunities for our young members. Our primary goal is to continue offering exciting adventures and experiences that contribute to their personal growth and development. 

Looking ahead, we aspire to engage in several local environmental projects, reflecting our dedication to making a positive impact on the community. These projects aim to instil a sense of responsibility and environmental awareness in our young people, fostering a commitment to creating positive change. 

As we conclude the month of March, our leaders have already mapped out an array of captivating activities. The Beavers are gearing up for a Harry Potterthemed sleepover, promising a magical experience for our youngest members. The Cubs are eagerly anticipating a weekend residential in Lorne, filled with thrilling activities and opportunities for fun and friendship. Meanwhile, the Scouts are set to embark on a camping adventure for the TOE (The Outdoor Experience) camp in Crawfordsburn, showcasing their outdoor skills and teamwork. 

Throughout the year, our focus will be on providing our members with the chance to achieve their highest awards, encouraging them to embrace new challenges, and fostering the development of life skills. All of this will unfold in an atmosphere of friendship, smiles, and laughter, creating a positive and supportive community within our Scout Group. 

We are excited about the journey ahead and look forward to witnessing the growth and achievements of our members 

Stephanie Meikle GSL 

**18 |** P a g e 1[st] Castlerock Scout Group Registered Charity Number:   104117