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2024-07-31-accounts

1[ST] . STRATHAVEN SCOUT GROUP TRUSTEE BOARD

(formerly the 1[st] Strathaven Scout Group Executive Committee)

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR TO 31 JULY 2024

Scottish Charity number SC032957

,

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT,

39 BRIDGE STREET,

STRATHAVEN,

ML10 6AN.

1[st] Strathaven Scout Group Trustee Board

Trustees’ Annual Report

For the year ended 31[st] July 2024

The trustees present their annual report together with the financial statements of the charity for the year to 31[st] July 2024. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the accounts and comply with the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended) and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities published on 16[th] July 2014.

Objectives and Activities

Charitable purposes

Our original purpose was to raise funds for the 1[st] Strathaven Scout Group. These funds went towards paying the running costs of the Scout & Guide Hall and enabled us to give grants to the various Scouting Sections for activities and equipment.

On 28 September 2017, the Fundraising Committee was formed as a sub-committee of this committee as the role of the Scout Group Executive Committee is now to

The Trustee Board is required by the Scout Association to be more responsible for the general management of the Scout Sections in the Group. Trustees are taking this very seriously.

Trustees, Annual Report For the year to 31 July 2024 Fund-raising Activities Our fund-raising sub-committee's activities included the Auction and Annual Raffle generating £3,468 12023.. £3,004) for the group. The 200 Club Iwhere up to 200 people contribute £15 annually and there is a monthly prize drawl generated only £11512023.. £1451 after prizes. 106 people are currently taking part in this. It desperatoly needs more people to participate for it to continue. Hlghll8hts Scouting has returned to normal, including camps and overseas visits. Risk Assessments These are now a compulsory requirement for any activity, responding specifically to the Covid threat but also arising from the Coroner's report into the death of an Explorer Scout from England. From January 2022, Risk Assessments have been required for all Scouting activities. The Trustee Board and the Section Leaders have a role to play assessing potential risks and their mitigation in respect of the use of our hall and equipment anyway. Annual Accounts A copy of these is attached for information. These independently examined accounts were approved at the AGM. Subslcensuslmembershlp Fees In summer 2022, we increased the annual subscription to £120 and they are paid by monthly direct debit. Membership fee5 were set at £43.00 per head12022.. £38.￿) with 50p per head discount for prompt payment. We were delighted that the Regional Membership fee for 2024 & 2023 was waived. The fee is based on the tènsus (the numbèr of membèrs) at 31 January 2024. Thè cost has bèèn covèrèd by the group, but membership fees rnay have to be increased further in the future. Chairman's Report- Mr Ross Miller This is my second year as the Group Chair and I've enjoyed getting to better know the leaders and fellow executive members. Thanks a5 ever to for all his support and in5ight5 as Group Lead Volunteer, and to Colin and Heather for their roles in allowing the Executive to function effectively. Regretfully, Heather has taken the decision to move on from the Secretary role following the conclusion of her children's Scouting Journey and I'd like to give special thanks for her service over the years. Extènded thanks are also 8ivÈn to all Scouting groups, leaders, fundraisèrs and volunteers who support the wider group,. without whom our children would not have such rich and varied experiences across their Monday, Thursday and Friday nights.

In terms of Scouting activity, it’s been another busy and productive year with lots of new and engaging opportunities for all age groups across Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers. Headlining this has been the establishment of our new Monday Beavers section with 16 invested Beavers in their first year. There are also been several successful expeditions and camps, notably including joint Beavers Camps featuring children from our Monday, Thursday and Friday groups, taking place at Avondyke.

As ever, there has been lots of badge work across all sections with plenty of badges awarded both through the efforts of the children independently and the organised activities from leaders and volunteers. There have also been Bronze and Silver badges awarded in Beavers and Cubs groups and many other fun activities and experiences too including tubing, farm visits, and trips to the Science Centre to name just a few.

We’ve invested more in our equipment store, replacing items which were no longer fit for purpose and purchasing a range of new tents for use across different sections. Marquee tents continue to be a feature at local community events, and the income from their hire is a valuable source of funds to the group. Thanks to for his continued efforts in building the store and creating a fantastic asset for everyone to use and benefit from.

As always, the group provided good representation at the Remembrance Parade earlier this month, again with great feedback on how everyone conducted themselves.

Looking forwards there is lots on the horizon. The community asset transfer application for the blaze pitch at Kirklandpark School remains on the agenda and we continue to work with the Council in taking it forward.

There are lots and lots of positives. I’m really pleased to see greater collaboration across the different groups on different nights to create more shared experiences for children, such as the joint Beavers camps, and it would good to see more of this going forwards.

On a personal note, I have enjoyed the year enormously. However, recently ended his time with Scouts and I’ve decided that this is a good time for me to do likewise. I’ve advised

of my intention to stand down from the Chair role in 2025, but have agreed to stay on for the first quarter of the year while a successor is identified. I’d like to take the opportunity now to thank you all for your time and patience in supporting me over the past 2 years and wish the group well going forwards.

Many thanks.

Sections Activities over the past year

Report from the Leaders of the Monday Beavers

January 2024 marked the inauguration of the Strathaven Monday Beavers Colony.

It has been a whirlwind journey, from finding out there was no space in the hall, to setting up camp in the village hall of Sandford. But it has been thoroughly enjoyed by the leaders—and most importantly, the Beavers!

Some of the year's highlights included:

Here’s to many more fun-filled moments in the years to come!

Monday Beavers Leaders

Report from the Leaders of the Thursday Beavers, Cubs & Scouts August 2023 to July 2024

Report from 1[st] Strathaven Thursday Beavers

During the year, we lost experienced leaders in the autumn but welcomed 6 new leaders to the section who bring a fresh perspective and a range of practical skills. Some of our Beavers left due to other commitments and health issues.

Thursday Beavers enjoyed a wealth of activities and projects that meant 148 badges were awarded. We spent more than 1 in 5 nights outside, even during the winter, which included a walk in the hard frost and ice in January. Our hands-on activities included metalwork and agility games.

For fun outdoors, we held a Christmas event at Broadlees Golf that included a golfing lesson and a visit to Santa. We had our annual visit to Hang On Climbing Centre in Hamilton. We visited the Strathaven Airfield and enjoyed a visit from Avon Valley Falconry.

12 excellent children moved on to Cubs allowing more children to join who were on our waiting list.

Report from 1[st] Strathaven Thursday Cubs

We are pleased to welcome to our Leadership Team and . The Young Leaders who joined us last year, continue to help whenever they can.

Thursday Cubs have enjoyed many challenges and projects, gaining 108 badges in the process, 3 of them Silver Awards attained before moving up to Scouts.

But it’s not all work. We thoroughly enjoyed the sleepover at the Science Centre and the Adventure Day at Auchengillan Outdoor Centre.

Our weekly meetings have included archery with (our Leader who represented us last year at the World Scout Jamboree in Korea), a giant marble run (don’t ask!), clay modelling, painting, St. Andrews celebrations, participating in the Remembrance Sunday Parade and so much more.

We look forward to a camp at Newmilns to go tubing before our summer break and we are already planning another camp for when we return.

, Thursday Cubs Leader

Report from 1[st] Strathaven Thursday Scout Troop

It has been another successful year for the young people in our Troop. Our Troop is a lot smaller than it used to be, but this has in many ways been enjoyable as we can focus on the individual kids more easily. The numbers coming through Cubs and from the joining list will not boost us back up to 30-36 in the foreseeable future.

Camping activities have included 4 days at Lapwing Lodge with a fantastic standard of campcraft on show, an overnight lightweight Expedition Challenge for the older Scouts within Whitelee Wind Farm to help the next batch achieve their Gold Award, Adventure Camp and the Big-Freeze which were again offered to our older Scouts. All these events were a great success. Our volunteer team has supported a huge range of weeknight activities including trips to Hang-On, cooking in the hall and night hikes. Several of the team have also given their weekends to supporting national events, such as Adventure Camp, and will do so again next year. Staffing these events is hard work and without it the camps could not take place. The feedback is that they are very rewarding (and very hard work!). We have supported their attendance using our troop funds. We continue to encourage badge attainment and work hard to deliver great opportunities to our young people. We now have a bit of momentum and structure to help those who wish to achieve the Chief Scouts Gold Award do so and hope to keep that up. It takes a fair amount of work from both the Scouts and the leadership team. Next year’s plans are Onwards and Upwards.

Thursday Scouts leadership team.

Report from the Leaders of the Friday Beavers, Cubs & Scouts

Report from 1[st] Strathaven Friday Beavers

1[st] Strathaven Friday Beavers Report August 2023- July 2024

Another year of exciting Scouting activities for our Beavers. We aimed to be outside as much as possible during the lighter months. Continue to be at full capacity of 24 Beavers.

Autumn term, August – December

Winter term, January – March

– Spring term, April July

Report from 1[st] Strathaven Friday Cubs

Annual Report and Badge Achievements for 1st Strathaven Friday Cub Scouts – 2023/2024

Introduction

The 2023/2024 year has been a remarkable journey for the 1st Strathaven Friday Cubs. Our Cubs embraced challenges, celebrated achievements, and grew as individuals and as a team. This report outlines key highlights from the year and recognizes the significant achievements in badge work, with 312 badges awarded across various categories.

Program Highlights

Our Cubs engaged in a wide range of activities tailored to develop skills, creativity, and teamwork while fostering community spirit. Each term offered unique opportunities for exploration and learning.

Autumn 2023

Winter 2024

Spring 2024

Badge Achievements

The dedication of our Cubs is reflected in the breadth and depth of badges awarded this year:

High-Level Awards

Key Badges Earned

  1. Outdoor and Adventure Skills :

  2. 17 Cubs earned the Outdoors Badge .

  3. 15 Cubs achieved the Pioneer Badge through knot-tying and rope-making.

  4. 18 Cubs received the Backwoods Cooking Badge , showcasing their outdoor culinary skills.

  5. 17 Cubs excelled in water-based activities, earning the Paddle Sports Badge .

  6. Creative and Practical Skills :

  7. 17 Cubs earned the Entertainer Badge , displaying their creativity.

  8. 14 Cubs were awarded the DIY Badge for their craftsmanship.

  9. 9 Cubs earned the Skills Badge , reflecting their ability to apply learned skills effectively.

3. Community and Global Awareness :

4. Leadership and Teamwork :

5. Unique Interests and Achievements :

Badge Overview

In total, 312 badges were awarded , demonstrating the commitment and growth of our Cubs across a diverse range of activities.

Conclusion

The 1st Strathaven Friday Cubs have shown tremendous growth, resilience, and enthusiasm this year. Through their badge work and active participation, they have developed essential life skills, fostered meaningful relationships and contributed positively to their community.

Acknowledgements

A heartfelt Thank You to the parents, leaders, and volunteers whose dedication and support have made this year a success. Together, we have created an environment where our Cubs can thrive and look forward to another exciting year ahead.

Pack Leader, 1st Strathaven Friday Cubs

Report from 1[st] Strathaven Friday Scouts

The 1st Strathaven Scouts have embarked on an exciting journey from August 2023 to June 2024, filled with engaging activities, skill development, and community involvement. The Friday Troop has showcased a commitment to fostering teamwork, leadership, and a sense of adventure among its members.

Autumn Term Highlights (August - November 2023)

The term kicked off with a Games Night and Troop Forum on August 18, where scouts engaged in team-building activities and shared ideas for the upcoming term. The following weeks included Wide Games and a Pioneering session, where scouts learned practical skills by constructing structures using ropes and wood.

A highlight of this term was the Swimming Meeting at the local leisure centre, which not only promoted water safety but also provided a refreshing break from regular activities. The scouts also took part in a Remembrance Day preparation meeting, focusing on honouring past sacrifices through engaging activities such as the "No Man's Land" searchlight exercise.

The term concluded with a Hallowe’en Party and a festive International Night, where scouts explored different cultures, enhancing their global awareness. Parental involvement was encouraged throughout the term, with parents participating in various roles to support troop activities.

Winter Term Highlights (November 2023 - March 2024)

As winter approached, the scouts continued their journey with a series of well-planned meetings. The Online Safety - Communicator session emphasized responsible communication, while the Night Hike offered a thrilling outdoor experience that developed navigation skills in a fun, engaging way.

The scouts worked diligently towards completing their Communicator Badge, reviewing skills such as phonetics and Morse Code. The Teamwork Knot Party provided a creative outlet for scouts to master knot-tying skills through challenging teamwork activities.

The highlight of the winter term was undoubtedly the Christmas Blowout, where scouts celebrated with games and festivities, strengthening friendship among members. Community service was also a focus, with a Litter Pick event scheduled for March, allowing scouts to give back while promoting environmental stewardship.

Spring Term Highlights (April - June 2024)

Spring 2024 brought a renewed sense of excitement as the scouts prepared for outdoor adventures. The Troop Forum in April encouraged scouts to voice their ideas for upcoming events and activities. Camp preparation meetings were crucial as scouts geared up for the Auchengillan Scout Camp, where they would participate in various outdoor activities, honing their camping and survival skills.

The Scout Auction on May 18th served as a fantastic fundraising event, engaging the community and fostering support for the troop. Patrol Leaders (PL) embarked on a PL Expedition, focusing on leadership and teamwork, which are essential skills for scouts.

The term wrapped up with sessions dedicated to earning the Scientist Badge, where scouts engaged in fun experiments, and a summer BBQ celebration, marking the end of the term with food, laughter, and camaraderie.

Conclusion

Throughout this period, the 1st Strathaven Scouts have not only developed essential skills but have also created lasting memories through camps, events, and exciting activities. The commitment of the leaders, parents, and scouts alike has fostered an environment of growth, learning, and fun. As we look forward to the next term, the foundation laid during this journey promises even more adventures and opportunities for the scouts to thrive.

Report Compiled by: Position: section leader 1st Strathaven Scouts Friday section

Report from the Leaders of the Explorer Scouts

1[st] Strathaven/Strathcalder Explorer Scouts’ report August 2023- July 2024

The Explorer Scout Unit is current made up of 18 members and 6 leaders: (Leader in charge), (Leaders), (support leaders).

A significant issue the Unit experiences is lack of space. We currently use the upper hall which is too small for most physical activities (pioneering, wide games etc). Throughout the outlined period, the program included a diverse range of activities including outdoor adventures, skill development, leadership training, and social events. The Explorer bank account is currently not functioning: this is a result of long, complicated and laborious regulations from the bank to transfer administrators.

121 badges have been awarded, including 6 Platinum and 2 Diamond Chief Scout's awards. 2 Silver Duke of Edinburgh have also been awarded.

One Explorer from the Unit attended the 39th Scottish International Patrol Jamborette at Blair Atholl (in July 2024).

The program activities catered to the varied interests and needs of the Explorer Scouts while fostering teamwork, resilience and personal growth. Highlights of the event programme included a Survival Camp at Avondyke (Oct 2023), Lochgoilhead Christmas Camp (Dec 2023) and Subzero Camp at Auchengillan Scout Centre (Feb 2024). The Explorer Scouts demonstrated excellent perseverance on a two-day expedition hike completing the first two stages (Milngavie to Rowardennan) of the West highland Way (Aug 2023), and subsequently completed stages 3 and 4 (Rowardennan to Tyndrum) (Jun 2024).

The program also demonstrated a commitment to community engagement and commemoration through events like the Remembrance Day Parade (Nov 2023) and volunteer stewards at the 'Round Strathaven 50' charity cycle event (Aug 2023). The Explorer Scouts learned a valuable lesson in diplomacy through publishing the result of their annual chip review on the Strathaven Facebook page. The Explorer Scouts have actively engaged with their peers from other Strathcalder Units through two hikes, Strathaven to EK (Sept ’23) and EK to Strathaven (Mar ’24).

has done a fantastic job in providing Young Leader Modules A, B, C, I and J. We also hosted a paramedic who trained the Explorer Scouts in the two emergency first aid modules.

Over the next 12 months we will continue to work with the Explorer Scouts to plan a varied and fun programme. We already have a West highland Way stages 5 & 6 expedition planned for Easter 2025 and completing the route during the summer 2025. Explorers will seek to support Beaver, Cubs and Scouts activities over the next year.

Overall, the program has and will continue to provide valuable opportunities for the Scouts to learn, explore, and bond with each other.

Explorers’ detailed programme

03 to 04/08/2023 West Highland Way stages 1 & 2
24/08/2023 Programme planning night
31/08/2023 Pioneering at KP feld
07/09/2023 Car mechanics
14/09/2023 Survival Skills
28/09/2023 Night hike
29/09/2023 Strathaven to East Kilbride Hike
05/10/2023 1st Strathaven Scouts reunion event planning
12/10/2023 New Explorer night (Prepare for Survival Camp)
13 to 15/10/2023 Avondyke Survival Camp
26/10/2023 Halloween ghost walk
02/11/2023 Young leaders - Module A & other planning
09/11/2023 SAS visit to discuss the army and Remembrance Day
12/11/2023 (Sunday) Remembrance Day Parade
23/11/2023 Annual Strathaven chip review
30/11/2023 First aid training 1
07/12/2023 First Aid training 2
14/12/2023 Christmas Jumper party/Christmas camp kit check
15/12/2023 Lochgoilhead Christmas Camp
11/01/2024 Strathcalder Scouts Awards night
18/01/2024 Planning night
25/01/2024 Burns supper
01/02/2024 Young leaders - Module B & C
08/02/2024 Subzero kit check
9 to 11/02/2024 Subzero Camp
15/02/2024 Chinese New Year
22/02/2024 Shopping challenge
29/02/2024 Quiz
07/03/2024 Games night
14/03/2024 Maps and East Kilbride hike planning
16/03/2024 East Kilbride to Strathaven Hike
21/03/2024 Climbing wall
18/04/2024 Man hunt at the park
25/04/2024 Hike to Specs
02/05/2024 Avondyke (fre and knife skills)
09/05/2024 Raf planning and knots
16/05/2024 Raf building
30/05/2024 Raf building
06/06/2024 Gala Window spotng
13/06/2024 Route planning for West Highland Way and map reading

Section Activities since August 2023 and Planning for the Future

The Leaders of all Sections are keen to ensure that the Scouting experience of the children in all Sections is as challenging and fulfilling as it ever was. Strathaven Scouts benefit from an enthusiastic leadership and a commitment to providing every opportunity for a Scouting experience that will benefit the children for the rest of their lives. We are keen to welcome new leaders and nurture young leaders from those leaving Explorers. We are addressing the list of those waiting to join. Plans are in place to increase capacity at Cubs and Scouts sections so that they have a new Cub section to go to after they have left Beavers. Scouting is back to normal and the children have a great future in Scouting to look forward to.

Quartermaster’s Report

It has been a tremendously busy year in the store with equipment being used on a regular occurrence to help give our youth members the best possible scouting experience.

With the help of a few other leaders, we were able to have a good tidy up of all the equipment and the store now is beginning to look far better than it has in years. My sincere thanks go to all the leaders in continuing to keep the store tidy and organised.

We had the heart-wrenching task of discarding many items from the store as they were past their usable dates. Notably, items like helmets that have never been used but were out of date by 7 years, so they had to go. It included a fibreglass Ultimate climbing helmet that I remember wearing as a Scout, so at least that was justified. It is hard to see what appears to be good equipment going to skips but we simply cannot keep equipment that is designed to keep our members safe but has gone past its intended lifespan.

All is not negative, though, as we have invested in the store and we plan to keep investing. The pioneering poles were full of woodworm, again poles that I used as a Scout, so these were turned into heat and new poles bought. The gas appliances were all checked and new hoses and regulators fitted. All the canvas tents have been checked and sorted to give us now a staggering stock of 6 Icelandics with 4 Icelandic flysheets and 6 Nigers with 6 Niger flysheets – a stock that many groups across the country would be extremely jealous of.

We recently purchased another dining shelter, so we now have 4 dining shelters.

The damaged bungalow poles have now been replaced which means that both bungalows can now be used at the same time.

Hike tents are a huge part of the store and there is still a good bit of sorting to be done in regards to those, but we have purchased 8 Force Ten 3-man tents. These are bombproof tents used on Everest for many a year and a staple of old scouting. They are very much a base camp type tent but with easy erection. It is hoped that Cubs and probably even Beavers could pitch these and get the benefit of a camping experience.

Going forward, it is my intention to continue the investment with my focus moving to the patrol box items of knives, chopping boards and such like. Also, the replacement of the hike stoves to become gas conversions for the trangias, more organised racking and the replacement of lashing type ropes.

We have made plans already to increase the drying capacity on the stage in the hall and are just waiting to discuss it with the Hall Management Committee before proceeding.

The marquee hires over the summer have been a great task for the team involved with approximately £1,000 generated for the group. The summer was extremely challenging but we made it through with only a slight bit of damage to the 40 x 20. This will go away to be repaired at the turn of the year. We already have requests for hires next year, so hopefully we can continue this service and help bring in some funds to the group. It would be good if the store was able to be self-funded through this service to ease the pressure on our fundraising committee.

Finally, we hope to ease the process of using the equipment. I had looked at an app-based booking system but it is too complicated for what we need. It is my intention to

The store is a hub of items and ideas to help all members both young and old to give our youth members the best possible scouting programme possible. You could probably plan a whole term of activities from items within the store. I urge the leaders to use it as much as possible, and if you want to see something added to the stock, then come forward and suggest it.

It is your store. Enjoy it.

Financial Review

The accounts consolidate the financial activity of each of the Scout Sections.

Our main source of funding continues to be fees charged to parents, but fundraising is now back to full swing.

Sources of income include £1,450 (2023: £1,480) from former Scouts who pay their Friends of Strathaven Scouts subscription direct to us. We also made a surplus from our 200 Club of £160 (2023 surplus: £145). We got £4,000 from the Round Strathaven 50-mile Cycle Challenge and £3,888 from our annual auction and raffle.

We have continued to support the maintenance of the Scout & Guide Hall and we have supported trips and activities available to the various Scouting Sections that required funding from the Scout Executive.

The only restricted funds in the bank accounts related to fundraising for the summer 2023 trip to Ardeche, France, and the balance there was treated as deferred income at 31 July 2022. All income and costs associated with the trip were released to the accounts last year. There was a surplus remaining in the account and parents were offered £35 refund, but some donated their refund to Thursday Scouts. £190 remains in the account but is now classed as unrestricted funds. At 31 July 2024, the bank accounts contain only unrestricted funds.

Income for the period totalled £45,467 (2023: £77,016). Subscriptions income was slightly more than in 2023. Costs for the year totalled £38,241 (2023: £69,857) but the use to which funding is applied can vary from year to year making year-on-year comparisons very difficult, if not worthless. As usual, the Scout Trustee Board provided grants this year to each of the different Scout sections and provided additional funding to support Scouting activities as requested.

We submitted a claim for Gift Aid for the year to 5 April 2024 and received £2,626 after the year-end. We include this as a debtor in these accounts.

At the end of the year, there is a gain of £7,226 (2023 gain: £7,158) which is added to reserves.

Investment policy

The Trustees had funds on deposit with the Scout Association on which it received a modest amount of interest. These funds arose from the sale of the original Scouts’ premises in Station Road, Strathaven, but were never required for working capital. The Scout Executive Committee at the time put the funds on deposit in the hope of buying new premises in the area, but decent opportunities have been rare.

In August 2023, the Scout Association decided to close this investment scheme and returned the funds to our main account. There are no plans to deposit more or to invest elsewhere and no financial commitments that require these funds to be available for working capital.

Reserves policy

The Scout Group Trustee Board is obliged under the Scout Association’s Policy, Organisation & Rules to ensure that proper financial planning and budgetary control is operated within the Group. The Trustees have considered the reserves required to meet their current and future liabilities. The trustees aim to maintain all reserves in unrestricted funds at a level sufficient to meet a whole year’s expenditure. Any overspend by a Scout section will be addressed by additional fundraising by that section and/or additional Scout Group Trustee Board funding. Any underspend by a Scout section is available for their use in a later period and is not taken into consideration when the Group Trustee Board decides on its funding package.

Future plans

The Scout Trustee Board has not committed funding to any project.

We have formed a new charity called the 1[st] Strathaven Scout Group Activities Facility Trust. The new charity was required by South Lanarkshire Council to facilitate a Community Asset Transfer. We have an opportunity to build more suitable premises. We cannot address our increasing waiting list to join the Scouts because our premises are not suitable. Our new Beaver colony will have to operate from Sandford Community Hall, a few miles away in another village. We need premises that will help us grow in a community that gets bigger every year because of the volume of new build family homes. We have temporarily withdrawn our application for the Community Asset Transfer of the facility in Strathaven whilst we and the Roads Dept reconsider the problems with access and exit to the land, but the Council is still aware of our interest.

We mention this as fundraising for the new charity will be driven by the Trustees of the new charity, the current Scout Trustee Board and the 1[st] Strathaven Scout Group Sections.

Fundraising at the Scout Auction and an increase in the number of participants in the 200 Club will help to improve our financial position.

Structure, Governance & Management

Constitution

The Charity is an unincorporated association. It is governed by its constitution which was adopted on 24 May 2000 and was amended on 28 September 2017. The Committee was granted charitable status on 3 May 2002. It is likely that we will adopt the model constitution provided by the Scout Association, but it has not been adopted by the date of the AGM.

In March 2023, the name “Scout Group Executive Committee” was changed to “Scout Group Trustee Board” by the Scout Association.

The Scout Group Trustee Board, when it was the Executive Committee, appointed a Fundraising subCommittee to continue the original role of the Group Scout Executive Committee. The Trustee Board now concentrates on its principal role of management of the Scout Group in line with the Policy, Organisation & Rules (POR) of the Scout Association.

The new Autumn 2024 edition of the POR came into effect on 21 November 2024. It runs to over 300 pages, so the following is a very short summary of the changes introduced. It has implications for the conduct of our AGM on 29 November 2024 and for the future structure of the Trustee Board.

The changes to the membership of the Trustee Board were effective from the first AGM after 31st March 2024.

Previously, Scout Leaders (if they opted in), Deputy Group Scout Leaders and Group Secretary (if appointed) were ex-officio members of the Group Trustee Board. Their ex-officio role as a Trustee may continue after 31 March 2024 but must end at the first AGM after 1 April 2024 or on 31 March 2025, whichever is sooner.

At our AGM this year, all ex-officio members retired from their role as Board Trustees.

Ex-officio Trustees are Trustees by virtue of their role in the Scouts. They are a vital part of the Trustee Board, providing a clear link with the leadership and operation of the charity. For the Group Trustee Board, our ex-officio Trustee is the Group Lead Volunteer, Mr. James MacClancy.

Charity Trustees must collectively:

A Trustee Board should comprise a maximum of 12 Trustees (the total of all ex officio, appointed and co-opted Trustee categories), with a minimum of 5 Trustees. The selection processes leading to appointment of Trustees must include a rigorous and transparent selection process and may include a nominations process or an election process or other locally appropriate procedures. It may include selection of persons with specific skills from outside the Scouts.

There are many more rules relating to Trustee eligibility largely governed by the Charities and Trustee (Investment) Scotland Act 2005 (as it always did), restrictions on length of service on the Trustee Board, and so on.

Management of the Group and Risk

The Trustees are responsible for the strategic direction and governance of the Scout Group. Day-today management of the Scout Sections is delegated to the Section Leaders and other volunteers. The Section Leaders will attend trustee meetings to discuss progress and development.

The trustees are aware of their responsibilities for health & safety, but mindful that Scouting activities carry risk. In addition to comprehensive insurance, our volunteers all have disclosures under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme. The trustees are responsible for ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation including the Data Protection Act 2018.

There is a lot of practical training for the adults who support the Scout Group and this helps to mitigate risk. The level required will depend on whether one is an assistant or a leader, but examples of compulsory courses are the fundamentals of scouting, safeguarding, the skills of leadership, communicating with adults, program planning, promoting positive behaviour, and of course, First Aid.

The trustees receive no remuneration and no expenses.

Reference and Administrative Information

Charity Name 1st Strathaven Scout Group Trustee Board Charity No SC032957 Address

Trustees who served during the entire period:

No Trustees were appointed or retired during the period

Trustees who retired at the Annual General Meeting:

Trustees, responsibilities in relation to the financial statements The charlty trijstees are rèspclnslble for preparlng a trust￿. annual report and financial statement5 in accordance with applicable and Unlted ¥4ngdom knunttng 5¢andards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accountln8 prattl￿1. The law applicable tocharities in ScOtlar￿ ¥equire5 thecharity tru5tee5 to prepare financialstatements for each tlnancial year whlch 8lve a truè and fair view of the state ol affairs of the charity and of the incomlng resourEe5 and applicatlon of resources of the charlty for that perfod. In proparlrbg tho financi31 statements, the tru5rees are required to: Select sultable accountln8 polkk5 and then apply them conslstenily Dbserye Ihe methods and princlples In the applicable Charities SORP makè jud8gmènts and stimalg5 that are T¢asonable a￿1 prudent state whether applkable a¢¢ountlng stand•rds h•ve been foll¢)wed. subject to any mateilal departures dlscbsed and explalned In the flnandal statements prepare the flnanclal statrmefits on the 8olng concern ba515 unless It Is inapproprlate to presume that Ihe chartty wlll ￿ntInue in business. The trustees aro résponslblè for keepln8 proper accountin8 récords Ihal disc105e wlth r¢asonabl¢ accuracy at any time the financial posthon of the charty and to enable them to ensure that the flnat)cial statements cornply wilh the Charitles and Trustee Investment (Scotlandl Act 2005 and the Charity Accounts {Scotlandl Regulatlons 2{￿ las amended}. They are also rèsponsiblè for safeguarding the assets of the charity and taking reasonable steps for the P￿VentIon ?nd detection cl fiaud and other Irregularltle& The trusteesare resp￿sible torthe malntenance and Inte8flty of the tharity and fTnanclal Infomiation induded on the charIt￿S website. Legislation in United Klngdom governing the preparailon and di55emination of financial 5tements may differ from legislation in other countries. Apprcved by the Trustees on 29 . NovemLv 2023 and signed on thelr behalf by Treasurér

Independent Examiner's Report For the year ended 31 July 2024. IndePend￿t Ex4mlns Report to the Trustees of the 1" 5trathaven kout ¢knup TruAee Board I rtport ￿ the flnandal statemÈnts of thè charity for the year ended 31 July 2024 whKh are set out on the followln8 ￿ges. Respeth responslbllltles of Twstees and Emamh The charity'5 trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance wtth the tenns of the Charities and Trustee In￿tment (kntIa￿lI Art 20051.the 2005 Act"1 and the Charitles Accounts (Scotlandl Regulation5 2006145 amended) lhe 2006 Regulatlon5"1. The charlty's trnStees conslder that the audlt requlTement ol Regulation l(rfl)Id) of the 2W6 Regulations does not apply. It Is my responsiblllty to examlne the accounts as requlred under sectlon 44llllcl of the 2(h)5 Act and to 5t•te whether particular mattw5 have come to rny attentlon. B•sls of Independ•rt EX•n￿￿o￿5 Slatem•nl My eyamlnation is carried out in accordance wlth Regulatton 11 of the alarltles Accounts1ScotlaThJl Regulations 2006. An examination indudes a remew of the accounting recor StJt•mwrt In the course of my exafflination, no rnatter has corne to my attention:" l. Whlch glves me reasonable cause to bellebt tFot, in ary materlal respect, the requlrementS to keep accountlrq records in accordance with sertion 4411)lal of the 2005 Act aTh Regulatlon 4 of the 2006 Regulatlons, b. to prepare accounts whlch accord wtth the aCc￿ntIng records and comply wtth Regulatlon 9 of the 2006 Re8ulatSons have not been met, or 2. to which, in my opinion. attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper under5tsnding of the account5 to be reached. 29 November 2024

ISL STRATHAVEN SCOUTS GROUP EXECUTIVE COMMrrtEE ststement ol Flnanual Arti¥itles For th• period •nded 31st July 2024 Unrestrirted funds Note 2024 2023 Income Donatw)ns and Gift Aid Receipts Irom Fundraisin8 Activities Income from Investmeni and bank inierest recewed 12.412 6,278 75 18,765 17.043 29,534 725 47,302 Gross tradin8 receipts Sundry income 25,661 1.042 29,713 45.467 77.015 EMp•ndltur• Cost of fundraisinB activities Direci cosis of chari13blè aCiNities 2.650 35.591 1,847 68.010 38.241 69.857 Surplui for th• y••r 7.226 7.158

ISL STRATHAVEN SCOUTS GROUP EXECUTIVE COMMrrtEE Balance Sheet as at 31st July 2024 Unrestricted funds At 31 July 2024 At 31 July 2023 CURRENT ASSErs Cash in Bank Debtor5 & prepaKI charges 61,716 5.979 51,855 13.681 67.695 65.536 CURRENT LIABILITIES Accrued char8es 75 5,142 NET CURRENT ASSETS 67,620 60,393 TOTAL ASSETS 67,620 60,393 REPRESENTED BY THE FOILOWING: Openin8 reseNes 60.393 53.235 ILossl/Surplus for the period 7.226 7.158 Tot•1 fund* urr5•d lorw•rd 67,620 60,393

1[st] Strathaven Scout Group Trustee Board

Notes to the Accounts

For the year ended 31 July 2024

1. Accounting Policies

(a) Basis of preparation and assessment of going concern

These accounts (financial statements) have been prepared in accordance with Accounting & Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities published on 14[th] July 2014, the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (FRSSE), the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 (as amended).

The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s) to these accounts.

The trustees consider that there are no uncertainties about the Scout Group’s ability to continue as a going concern.

(b) Nature and purpose of funds

Unrestricted funds are those that may be used at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the objects of the charity. The trustees maintain four unrestricted funds for the proper management of different aspects of the Committee, as follows:

The Scout Group is free to transfer funds between the accounts at any time.

In addition, the Leader of each of the 7 Scout sections operates that section’s own bank account for day-to-day management. Those funds are unrestricted. The one account that previously included funds pertaining specifically to the Scout Camp in Ardeche, France, held in July and August 2023 has a small balance remaining. This arose from parents refusing refunds and donating it to the Thursday Scouts section. This is also now treated as unrestricted funds.

1[st] Strathaven Scout Group Trustee Board

Notes to the Accounts continued

For the year ended 31 July 2024

1. Accounting Policies continued

(c) Income recognition

All income is recognised once the Scout Group has entitlement to the income, is certain of receipt and the amount to be received.

(d) Expenditure recognition

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the Scout Group to that expenditure, it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis.

2. Trustee remuneration and expenses

The trustees all give freely of their time and expertise without any form of remuneration or other benefit in kind except for the personal satisfaction of making a genuine difference to the lives of young people. No expenses were paid to the trustees in the year.

3. Grant received.

Scouts Scotland provided a £400 grant when the Monday Beaver colony was established. The award was not for a specific purpose. It was available for whatever Scouting purpose they needed it for. It was released to the Income and Expenditure Account on receipt of the funds.

1st. STRATHAVEN SCOUTS GROUP EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Scottish Charity number SC032957

Notes to the Accounts continued

3. Analysis of income
Donations and Gift Aid
Friends of Strathaven Scouts inc Gift Aid
Round Strathaven 50 Cycling Challenge
Donations for use of the Scout marquee
From members of the public
Scouts Scotland grant for setting up a new Beaver Colony
Receipts from fundraising activities
Scout Auction & Raffle
Thursday Scouts' income for France 2023
Ceilidh
200 Club
Investment income
Interest on cash deposits
4. Direct costs of charitable activities
Scout sections
Hall management, repairs & maintenance
Equipment & uniforms
Training
Capitation fees
Scouts insurance
Administration
Korean Jamboree costs
Scout Reunion costs		 2024
2023
£
£
4,076
11,058
4,000
3,000
1,500
700
2,436
2,285
400
-
12,412
17,043
4,168
3,331
-
24,539
460
-
1,650
1,665
6,278
29,535
75
725
16,172
50,313
5,981
4,068
3,208
4,534
-
480
7,693
6,488
676
646
1,188
983
-
498
673
-
35,591
68,010
Unrestricted funds

1st. STRATHAVEN SCOUTS GROUP EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Scottish Charity number SC032957

Notes to the Accounts continued

5. Debtors
Prepaid charges
Gift Aid
Marquee income
6. Creditors falling due within one year
Accrued charges		 At 31 July
At 31 July
2024
2023
£
£
3,078
4,103
2,626
9,578
275
-
5,979
13,681
75
5,142