26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP Annual Report & Financial Statements For the Year Ended. 31 March 2025 Scouts 26th Fife Charity No SC031534 26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP - ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 CONTENTS Trustees, Annual Report ........................................................................... .3-17 Independent Examiner's Report.. .19 Statement of Receipts & Payments..... .20 Statement of Balances..... .21 Notes to the FinanciaL Statements.............................................................................................. .22-23 26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The trustees are pleased to present their report and financial statements together with the independent examiner's report for the year ended 31 March 2025. REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Charity Name 26th Fife Iviewfield) Scout Group Charity Number Contsct Address KY12 9L3U Current Trustees (Ex Officioj App. 1411112024 Rcs. 1111012024 Chair Res. 0711112024 Group Secretary App. 0711112024 Res. 0711112024 Treasurer App. 1111012024 Group Lead Volunteer Scout Team Leader Cubs Team Leader Res. 1911012024 Explorer Team Leader Team Member Team Member Bankers Èjank of Scotland 11-13 East Port DunfermLine KY12 7JY Independent Examiner 26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Statement of Trustees, Responsibilities The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Praciice). The Law applicabLo to charities in Scotland requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which givo a true and fair view of the state of aff air5 of the charity and of thc incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that year. In preparing these financial statements. the trustees are required to: select suitable accounting policios and then apply them consistently: observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP: make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent., state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have beon followe(4, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements: and prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable thom to ensure that the financiaL statement5 comply with the Charities and Trustee Investment Iscotlandl Act 2005. and the Charities Accounts IScotLandl Regulations 2006 las amended). They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELDI SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing Document The Group operates in terms of the Constitution of the Scout Association, which was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1912. and the Policy, Organisation & RuLes I'POR") of the Scout Association as amended by the Scottish Variations. Appointment of Trustees The Board of Trustees are the charity's trustees. The Group Lead Volunteer lif appointed). Group Chair. Group Secretary and Group Treasurer are, ex-off icio, members of the Board of Trustees. The Team Leaders have the right of membership of Board of Trustees but are not required to be members. Organisational Strurture The Group Scout Council is the electoral body. which support5 Scouting in the Scout Group. It is the body to which the Board of Trustees 15 accountable. Membership of the Group Scout Council comprises: Parents of Beaver Scouts. Cub Scouts. Scouts and Explorer Scouts in the Group Team Leaders, Team Members Skills Instructor5, Administrators and Advisers; PatroL Leaders Members of the Group Active Support Unit: any other supporters incLuding former Scouts and their parents who may be admitted by the Group Lead Volunteer. Board of Trustees or the Group Scout Council The District Lead Volunteer and the District Chair The Group Scout Council must hoLd an Annual General Meeting within six months of the financial year-end to.. receive and consider the AnnuaL Report and Financial Statements of the Board of Trustees. approve the Group Lead VoLunteer's nomination of the Group Chair and nominated members of the Board of Trustees select a Group Secretary, Group Treasurer. and certain members of the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees is responsible forthe day-to-day management of the Group's affairs and normaLly mcets monthly. Risk Assessment It Is a Scout Association requirement that Health & Safety matters are considered at each Board of Trustees meetings and that aLI Team Leaders. Team mernbers. Board of Trustees Members and any other adult heLpers must be members of the Protecting VuLnerabLe Groups I'PVG'I Scheme or hold an Enhanced DiscLosure obtained via the Scout Association from Disclosure Scotlancl within the last five years. 26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES The Scout Association is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of young people. helping them reach their full physical, inteLlectual. social. and spiritual potential. This journey of self-discovery and growth is designed to shape individuaLs into responsible citizens and active members of their local. nationaL. and gLobal communities. To achieve these goals. the Association offers a dynamic and engaging program of progressive training, grounded in the principLes of the Scout Promise and Law. This program, led by cofflmitted adult volunteers. provides a balanced mix of fun. adventure, and learning, ensuring that young people are both challenged and supported as they develop new skills and build confidence. The Scout Group pLays a vital role in delivering this mission within Dunfermline and the surrounding area. We are committed to offering consistent support and opportunities for all young people in our community. This commitment is reflected in our weekly sessions for aLI Sections. held during school term time, as well as in the diverse range of events. outings. and camps we organize throughout the year. These activities are designed not only to enhance the development of our young peopLe but also to create lasting memories and friendships, further enriching tlieir Scouting experience. ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE The group has seen a significant infLux of young members. reflecting a positive trend in new enrollments across all sections. This has resulted in a slight increase in numbers compared to the same period in 2024, with overaLL youth retention rcmaining oxceptional. Many of our Scouts and some Explorers have successfully transitioned through the sections, from Beavers onward. showcasing remarkable continuity. This success is a testament to the dedication of our section leaders. who consistentLy deliver en9aging. high-quality programs for our young peopLe each week. However. our leader numbers are still below the desired level. Currently. some leaders are not only managing their own sections but also a5SiSting Beavers, Cubs. Scouts, and ExpLorers. Strengthening our leadership team by recruiting more adult volunteers will be one of our key priorities in the coming year. In addition to our regular programs, the group has participated in a variety of enriching activities throughout the year. including trips to Scottish landmarks. camp5, and group fundraisers. At the start of the year, the Cubs enjoyed day trips to Stirling Jail, The WalLace Monument. and the Edinburgh Museum. In June. the group embarked on a memorable trip aboard the Maid of the Forth. expLoring Inchcolm Island and Learning about its history and wildlife. Additionally, in preparation for the Kandersteg Internationaltrip, the Scouts and Explorers took part in a training camp to hone their hiking skill5 and ensure they were ready for the adventure ahead. The highlight of the year was undoubtedly our internationaL trip to Kandersteg, Switzerland. Over the course of 8 days, the Scouts and Explorers joined 1,900 Scouts from around the worLd. They participated in the Kandersteg Inlernational Day. where over 1,000 Scouts marched through the town. The group aLso had the opportunity to climb mountains, visit nearby towiis. and trek many miles. The experience was illcredibLy rewarding. and both the young people and leaders are eagerly lookiTig forward to returning in 2026. 26TH FIFE {VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 In October. all sections took part in a sponsored walk across the Forth Bridge. The younger sections, Beavers and Cubs, waLked a s-mile round trip, raising £786 (Raised from sponsors £674. Gift Aid 11121 for the group, while the Scouts and Explorers crossed the bridge twice. completing a 10-mile walk and raising £1,387 (Raised from sponsors £1.170. Gift Aid £2171 for the 2026 International trip. We would like to express our sincere thanks to everyone who participated and to alL the sponsors for their generous support. In October. transitioned from her role as Gi Iiijii l-l I, bir to Group Lead Volunteer, reflecting the nciliiri, Ill Iit)I work within the group. At the 2024 AGM, -,l('I 11 )(' Il Il(Iw(l ils Group Treasurer. with taking nn thi£ rnle after serving as Group SeLfvLdly. was elected as the new Gi Ll loll IL* ieplace We would like to take this Opportunity to extend our deepest gratitude to aLI of the adult volunteers in our group. Your unwavering dedication and hard work form the backbone of everything we do. Your contributions, from Leading weekly sessions and organizing events to providing guidance and supporL are truly invaluable. Not only (lo you bring your skills and enthusiasm to every activity, but you also senrfe as role modeLs. helping to shape the future of our young members. The impact of your efforts goes far boyond adivities and badges it is evident in the growth and development ol our young people. the sense of community and camaraderie, and the countless memorable moments that make Scouting a rewarding experience for everyone involved. Thank you for your tireless commitment, your passion for Scouting. and your ongoing support. Your contributions are essential in making our group a thriving, positive, and enriching environment for alL We wouLd also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Viewfield Baptist Church for their continued support and for providing us with a welcoming space throughout the year. 26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 TSÉAVEr<2' Membership Overview The past 12 months have brought plenty of change and growth within the Beaver Colony. We've seen 7 Beavers successfully move up into the Cub Section. where they continue their Scouting journey. and welcomed 5 new members into the Colony. We're also pleased to report that several younger people are currently on our waiting (is( eager to get involved. This heaLthy turnover reflects a thriving group With strong interest from both within the Scouting pathway and the wider community. Programme Highlights Throughout the year. the Beavers have taken part in a wide variety of exciting activities. designed to spark curiosity. encourage teamwork, and develop essential Life skills. A central theme in our programme was exploring different faiths and beliefs. A particular highlight was a guided tour of Viewfield Church, hosted bv who gave the Beavers a warrn welcoffle. He took the time to answer all their questions and encouraged them to be curious and respectful explorers of the church space. This visit not only supported our badgc wL)I k l)Iil iilso helped the Beavers connect with their local community. We'd like to extend a heartfelt thank you to for making the experience so memorabltrour young people left feeLing both inspired and appreciated. Another unique and much-enjoyed outing was a visit to see the Peacocks in the Glen. The 8eavers had a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes. learning about the birds. care and behaviour. The peacocks were in fine form. proudly displaying their feathers and leaving a lasting impression on everyone. It was a fun and educational visit that brought nature and animaL care to life. Badge Work & Activittes Over the past year, the Beavers have been hard at work earning badges across a range of topics. building both practical skilL5 and confidence. Activities incLuded,' Science experiments to inspire curiosity and hands-on learning Celebrating World Book Day. promoting reading and storytelling Money skiLls sessions to support financial literacy at an age-appropriate level Working on the Our World Badge. learnin9 about global citizenship and the environment Completing the Personal Challenge Badge, encouraging self-development and responsibility Additionally. several evenings were dedicated to LEGO chalLenges. where the Beavers used their imagination and teamwork to build models based on different theme5. These fun and interactive sessions were not only entertaining but also encouraged cornmunication. collaboration. and creaiive tl)inking. We also spenttirne focusing on Scouting values. such as helping others, being kind. and doing our be5t-principles that the Beavers are Learning to apply both in the group and at home. 26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Looking Ahead As we look forward to the coming year, the Colony remains full of energy and enthusiasm. Our Beavers are excited to continue their journey by working toward even more badges, taking part in new adventures, and welcoming new members into the group. There's a real sense of momenturn and pride arnong the Beavers. and we're confident that the year ahead will bring even more opportunities for learning. friendship, and fun. 26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 cubs Over the past 12 months, the Cubs have taken part in a wide range of engaging and educational activities. focusing on essential Life and social skills. aLongside plenty of fun and entertainment. Programme Highlights A strong emphasis was placed on safety education. with key sessions dedicated to fire safety and first aid-core themes throughout the year. Science was brought to Life through hands-on experiments. including projects on parachutes and catapults. sparking curiosity and teamwork. Cultural awareness was promoted throLAgh the introduction of British Sign Language IBSLI and its relevance in emergency scenarios. The Cubs also participated in themed nights such as "Cubs Got Talent and Musician Night. offering opportunities for seLf-expression and team building. An International Night highlighted Scouting's global reach, featuring photos and videos from the Scouts. trip to Kandersteg, Switzerland. A particularly meaningful evening was held to commemorate Remembrance Day. where the Cubs Learned about and gave thanks for the service and sacrifices made during World Wars l &11, and the Korean War. Special Events & Trips The Cubs participated in six major events this year. each contributing 5ignificantLy to their personal growth and development: Edinburgh Science & Nature Museum Willowgate Outdoor Centre- Water artivities and outdoor skilLs Ferry trip to Inchcolm Island and Monastery Visit to the Black Watch RegimentaL Museum Dunfermline District Cubs Skillz Day Additional local and community-based events These outings fostered skills such as problem-soLving, communication. and cooperation. while also strengthening friendships and building a strong sense of camaraderie. 10 26TH FIFE (VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Achievements Chief Scout Awards: 5 Cubs earned the prestigious Chief Scout Award Badges Awarded: 98 badges awarded. with 15 more dLJe soon These include Challenge, Stage, and Activity Badge5 covering areas such as.. Communication Local Knowledge Emergency Aid Astronomy Road Safety Money SkilLs Hiking Time on Water Nights Away: 7 nights away were offered during the year Membership Overview Current Pack Membership: 13 Cubs Age Distribution: 6 Cubs aged 8 4 Cubs aged 9 3 Cubs aged 10 Transitions: 6 Cubs have recentLy progressed to the Scout Section 4 new Cubs have joined from the Beaver Sertion 2 Cubs joined via our partnership with the local Church The pack currently has 4 spaces available. 26TH FIFE {VIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 SCOUTS Membership Numbers Our numbers have remained steady over the past year. with around 15 young people regularly attending. While we've said goodbyc to scvoral oldcr Scouts who have moved on to the Explorers section. we've been pleased to welcome a steady stream of Cubs moving up. With a younger average age across the group. our focu5 going forward wilL be on developing Strong foundationaL skills-especiaLly in outdoor activities. Weekly Activities Our weekly programme continues to evolve while staying rooted in traditional Scouting vaLues. Recent highlights include: Fire lighting: Learning to collect fueL, build and maintain a fire. and experimenting with various lighting methods. Outdoor cooking: Using wood gas stoves to cook up favourites like bacon rolls in the woods. Navigation skills: Map reading. compass work. and pLanning routes. as weLL a5 geocaching around the local area. First aid and rescue: Hands-on sessions in emergency aid, search and rescue techniques. and disabiLity awarene5S. We aLso Like to mix things up with a bit of fun-our Scouts took part in a "Chip-shop Hike," where the goal was to visit as many chip shops as possible in a 90-minute session. sample the chips. and give each a rating out of 10. (From memory. Jim Jack's and The Golden Chip were joint winnersll Camps Camping was a bit lighter this year. but Still meTnorable. In May, the Scouts completed a one-night hike and camp from Powmill to Nineacres, tackLing the return journey on what felt like the hottest day of the year. July brought a major highlight.. our first internationaL camp since bcforc the pandemic. Six Scouts spent a week at Kanderstcg InternationaL Scout Centre in SwitzerLand. They took part in Swiss Intcrnational Day. hiked in the ALps, cruised on a glacial lake aboard a paddle steamer, and even raced down a mountain on a roLlercoa5ter-aLI while soaking in the incredible alpine scenery. Excursions Our Scouts enjoyed a variety of trips this year, including: A return visit to Willowgate Activity Centre in Perthshire in May. The morning featured katakanu paddling and water games. while the afternoon brought fishing and some good-natured sumo suit wrestling. In June. we boarded The Maid of the Forth for a day trip to Inchcolm IsLand-an exciting adventure that got everyone out on the water again. 12 26TH FIFE IVIEWFIELDI SCOUT GROUP - TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Fundraising In October, the group took part in a sponsored walk across the Forth Road Bridge. Scouts successfuLLy completed four crossings. raising funds and awareness for our group. Badges It's been a fantastic year for achievefflents. with the Scouts earning an impressive 93 badges in totaLI These included: Nights Away Paddle Sports Time on the Water Itwicel) Camper Emergency Aid International Activities Many Scouts al50 made significant progress toward their ChaLlenge Badges-weLL done to all for their hard work and enthusiasml 13 26TH FIFE IVIEWFIELD) SCOUT GROUP- TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 EXPLORERS Over the course of the year. the number of Explorer Scouts has increased to 11 members. We've seen several Scouts progress from the Scout section to Explorers. filLing the spots left by those who have moved on. as well as a few who have joined our Explorer unit from other groups Late in 2023. we formed a joint unit with Explorers froffl the 44th Fife, due to theiT Low number5. This partnership has been a great success, with Explorers from both units benefiting from the increase in membership and leadership. The two groups are now working well together. enjoying a strong and collaborative program. Attendance at Explorers has been generally good, though there was a sLight drop during the exam season as sorne of the oLder Explorers prepared for exams and proliins. In addition to our regular weekly Leaders. team_ IILlS Stepped in to heLp with cooking and baking activities. showcasing her impressive skills in delivv.riii(J IllQ