St Helens and District
St Helens and District Scouts Annual Report and Accounts for period 1 January 2019 to 31 December Register Charity Number 1053261 Scouts made me a do-er and a give it a go-er. Made me question and listen and have a wide-open mind. Scouts made me take a deep breath and speak up. Made me think on my feet, made me see the big picture, made me ignore the butterflies and go for it. Scouts made me get back up and try again. Made me think about what’s next, and plan for it. Made me jump in, get muddy, give back and get set. Presidents Foreword
This is the first time that your President has contributed to these reports. I am honoured and hope to do it justice! It has been 113 years since the foundation of Scouting in 1907. In that year, Baden-Powell was invited to form the 1st St Helens (YMCA) Group. Since then we have had regular AGMs. I recon we must have held at least 100 of them, so this one could easily be our 101st. At first, the AGMs would have made up of interested “Scoutmasters” who would decide a common way forward for their new endeavour and thereby gain support to carry it out efficiently.
Formal proceedings would wait for the formation “Boy Scout’s Association” and the recognition of St Helens as an official District in 1909 and the linking of our “Ex Terra Lucem” District badge with the Red Rose of the West Lancashire Scout County. As far as I know, the YMCA was joined by the 2nd St Helens (St James’) Group. So, the District had started to grow!
Jumping forward to the early-60s when I got involved! DC Ken Hooper used the Gas Board’s waxed sheet Gestetner machine to distribute important documentation. In 1975 our new badge joined the “Mersey Bar” lightship of Merseyside Scouts. In the late 1970s DCs Joyce Wailing and then in 1993 Gordon Roberts used Pilkington’s facilities for the same thing. Gordon thought up the perfect name for our newssheet “Sharpend” and commanded the “Gang Show” gang.
In 1997, as DC I used my employer, the UKAEA, to produce my paperwork, and Terry Gregson joined the team as PRO and handled the production of “Sharpend”, which started small, now look how big it is, photographs and distribution by email! Another of Terry’s jobs was to oversee our foray into the “sthelensscouts.org.uk” website, which has since morphed into a Scout Association’s web presence.
By the mid-noughties, computers simplified the production of our AGM reports, which became more substantial and photocopied for greater distribution. This practice continued to improve under Chris Williams and though to our present DC. In 2007 Chris coordinated our attendance at the 21st World Scout Jamboree that celebrated 100 years of Scouting. With her guidance the District has been present at all subsequent jamborees.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those involved with the continued success of our District. ADCs and the leaders in the four training sections, the officers, and members of the District Executive, the “Gang Show” gang and those helping with all District wide events.
As you can see, this report is a major step forward in presentation that mirrors the growth of scouting throughout our District and across the world. In these days of Social Media, its high-quality style encourages it to be read, not only by us Scouters but by the general public as well. It is a confident statement of our intent to grow our membership and take the District forward into the next decade. I recommend that you read this AGM report. Thank you and please keep up the good work.
Mike Michael Harrison Esq. District President
#SkillsForLife Page 3 District Commissioner’s Report
We're preparing young people with skills for life.
St Helens and District Scouts is a voluntary organisation that has over 1,150 members across 64 Sections and Units, 18 Scout Groups and 9 District Sections located in the North West of England; covering the Local Authorities of Knowsley and St. Helens. Our District is supported by Merseyside County Scouts including their Activity Centre Tawd Vale.
Each week across St Helens; c.900 young people, supported by c.250 adult volunteers, enjoy fun, friendship and outdoor adventure. They develop a sense of optimism and strong values as well as the leadership and teamwork skills that are more valuable today than ever before. Across St Helens, we are building on our recent success. We are focused on supporting amazing leaders to deliver inspiring programmes and prepare more young people with skills for life. We are contributing to a better society by supporting young people to develop the best skills and the best possible futures.
Our Mission Scouting actively engages and supports young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.
Our Vision By 2023 we will have prepared more young people with skills for life. Supported by amazing leaders and well- managed provision, we will deliver an inspiring programme by:
• Growing, being more inclusive, shaped by young people and making a bigger impact in our communities; • Focusing on what matters; and the actions that will increase the impact of Scouting; • Maximizing our impact; doing less, doing it well, supporting and embedding; • Making volunteering as easy as possible; keeping it practical and simple; • Working together; sharing and collaborating in keeping with our culture.
Our Strategic Objectives
Growth Inclusivity Youth Shaped Community Impact
We believe Scouts Everyone, regardless of Every young person Through community changes lives, so we want their background, should should be shaping their impact projects, Scouts to give every young be able to participate in experience and makes a difference not person in the UK the Scouts. developing their just to the individual but opportunity to join. leadership potential. to whole communities.
Thinking on your feet starts on a patch of tarmac.
#SkillsForLife Page 4 Our Pillars of Work To meet our objectives, we will focus on these three pillars of work:
Programme People Perception A fun, enjoyable, high quality More, well trained, better supported Scouting is understood, more programme consistently delivered and and motivated adult volunteers, and visible, trusted, respected and supported by simple (digital) tools: more young people from diverse widely seen as playing a key role in backgrounds: society today: • Supporting adults to make full use of the programme to deliver skills for • Ensuring we have enough of the right • Ensuring relevance and life through adventure; adult volunteers across our Scout understanding of Scouting to • Increasing the number of young Groups, who are… our communities – for young people achieving top awards; -well inducted people and adults from all • Supporting use of the programme to -well trained background and across all increase our impact in -well supported communities; communities; -recognised and rewarded; • Celebrating our impact, self- • Enabling section supporters to help • Developing and embracing our worth, and perception; improve programmes and develop team culture; • Developing our ‘internal confidence in adult volunteers; • Enhancing levels of enjoyment and community’ as a single team, • Increasing number of young people fulfilment; delivering Scouting across shaping their programmes. • Developing a culture of succession St Helens and District. planning, where needed.
Our Aims At District-level our primary focus is supporting our young people, their Section Leaders and their Scout Groups and Units. Our support is primarily delivered via a number of support streams - each of which have the following aims:
Programme Adult Adventure Skills for Life Perception Support Support Support Provide support Recruit Training Advisors Place District HQ as a Embed the Invest in a digital to deliver into every Group focus for activities in Scouting4All platform for the excellent St Helens by theme into Districts Implement induction programmes developing a long- programmes being administration for new managers across all of our term plan and delivered. functions. and implement Groups and Units. business case for dedicated GSL it's renovation. Identify, develop, Invest in a new Deliver support support. and implement outward facing for ‘hard to Increase the number specific projects to website to engage Implement an deliver’ of adults leading and deliver and enable with a wider effective digital programme areas. delivering growth. audience. communications adventurous Celebrate team. Maximise our Develop a team to activities. achievement and community impact run the Districts Invest in adult raise awareness Develop a team of through national Social Media recruitment and of top awards. specialist support to and local Account and 365 retention campaign Encourage and enable more partnerships, and Platforms. across the District. deliver excellent adventure. initiatives. Encourage, develop, Young Leader Grow the role and Work with the ACC Develop a culture and celebrate youth training provision; effectiveness of International to where inclusivity is participation in where and when SASU. encourage more second nature. leadership and support is Develop a new Groups and Units to support at all levels. needed. Develop and website with Adult travel internationally. promote Provide an annual Focus District-led Support sections and Ensure that risk opportunities for report to engage a events to streamlined admin assessments young people to wider audience and positively processes. supplement the training and have their say on improve access to programme. Improve the understanding is Scouting and new funding appointments process. fully embedded. influence society. streams.
#SkillsForLife Page 5 Progress Over the Last Year
With so much impressive work happening across St Helens, it’s a challenge to pick out just a few highlights. However, focusing on how we’re supporting our members at District Level; I’d note the following as some of our key achievements:
Programme
• Young People Top Awards: Young People in St Helens achieved 3 Queen Scouts Awards and over 100 Chief Scouts Awards last year.
• Young Leader Training: Improvements in the Young Leaders training provision across St Helens has led to over 20 Young Leaders engaging in training and support to develop them into the leaders of the future.
• International Adventure: This year St Helens Scouts Young People have participated in or are planning to attend Explorer Belt Expeditions to Hungary, World Moots in Ireland, World Scout Jamborees in the USA, European Jamborees in Poland. The District has also and supported a number of individual Groups to travel abroad inc. Switzerland & France.
• District-led events: As part of the initiative to support hard-to-deliver areas of the programme and provide adventure; this year saw the introduction of the St Georges Day event, development of ‘Programme in a Box’ for new leaders, and supported a number of Groups with difficult badge work.
• District HQ Development: This year the District has started to develop a business case to apply for funding to allow the development of the site. The District has engaged an experienced designer to develop innovative uses for the building and land. People
• Appointments Panel: St Helens has begun to provide support to the Appointments Advisory Committees including training on panel evenings, updated information packs for new leaders and the introduction of “District Mentor” to support leaders who are new in post.
• New People Team: St Helens has strengthened the “People” Team to continue to support all Leaders across the District, the team now include a DDC People, ADC People and People Supporter. The roles will be embedded and rolled out across the District in 2020
• Group Scout Leader Support: The District has appointed a District Manager Supporter to support the Group Scout Leaders with the administration tasks associated with their roles as our key managers across the District.
• 365 Platform: St Helens has continuing to build its Office 365 platform; this is enabling streamlined administration for the Districts functions. Most recently the platform has been being prepared to link into the new website to support E-NAN Notification, Training, Programme resources, Financial Support Advice etc. Perception
• External Facing Website: St Helens Scouts has instructed Scout Websites to develop a new outward facing website to launch a new digital face of the District.
• Social Media: St Helens has brought together a team of social media wizards to innovate and refresh the District Social Media platforms and ensure that we are using them to their best advantage.
• Adult Recruitment Campaign: St Helens this year launched a sustained recruitment drive across, Social, Print, and Digital media. This was a significant investment from the District and resulted in a number of new leaders and an increase in the wider knowledge and presence of Scouting in St Helens to the general population.
#SkillsForLife Page 6 These highlights only represent the ‘tip of the iceberg’ in relation to the achievements across our 64 Sections and Units, 18 Scout Groups and 9 District Areas. I have enjoyed seeing and hearing about many of those successes at events I have visited and reading about them every day of the week across your social media channels. Your achievements are phenomenal.
My sincere thanks to every member of the team, across every Section, Unit, Group, and the District – the work you are doing continues to transform lives and transform communities… and hopefully you’re having a bit of fun along the way. We could not deliver everything we do without the tremendous support of the members of our Leadership and Support Teams. I recognise that you are volunteers who also have local commitments, but who manage to also find the time to support all members across our District.
It continues to be a great honour and privilege to lead St Helens and District Scouts, and to work alongisde such an amazing team at this exciting time – my personal thanks to each and every one of our young people and adults.
Thank you.
Chris Valentine-Burrows District Commissioner Here are a few images of my wanderings around our many fantastic events.
#SkillsForLife Page 7 #Sk#5 illsForLife Page 20 Growth and Development Work
Growth
As part of our commitment to offer the adventure of scouting to every young person, 2019 has seen us commit to opening new groups. We have engaged in three new Group projects this year. As a district we are actively working toward reducing the gaps in our provision across the District. Especially in those area that can benefit from Scouting the most. Following scrutiny of these areas our 3 projects that have been commenced are. • Huyton Quarry – a new Group with all 3 sections. The Group will be based at St Gabriel’s Parish Church. A taster session and introduction to Scouting was held here with success and the District has developed plans to open the Group in early 2020 to all 3 sections. This new adventure will bring Scouting back to Huyton Quarry after a 20-year break. • Prescot – a new Group with all three sections. The 1st Prescot Scout Group folded in 2018 due to a lack of leadership. This District is currently in talks with locations for the Group, in early 2020 representatives from Scouting visited local schools and community groups to spread the message that Scouting is returning to Prescot after a break of 2 years. • Clock Face – a new group with all 3 sections. The 14th St Helens Scout Group Folded in 2012 due to a lack of young people. The Group had been successful for over 30 years however due to new housing developments having moved a significant proportion of the youth population away from the Group it was no longer viable to continue its offering. The District plans to move the new group closer to the local schools and youth population. The District is currently in discussions with locations for the Group. This investment in growth across the district will offer the adventure of Scouting to 3 communities that are currently not served by a Scout Group.
Development
As part of our commitment to the development of the existing District, we have continued to invest in those Groups that need our support the most. The decisions on how best to invest this support are taken by looking at our annual census data and in partnership with the Group Scout Leader. In 2019 the District engaged in 3 projects to support our Groups. • 6th St Helens (Parr) – the 6th required support with the recruitment and retention of adult volunteers. Due to the lack of leadership, the group has been unable to increase the numbers of young people, therefore leaving the Group teetering on the edge of viability. The District intervened by drafting support from fully trained leaders at other groups, paid the groups rent arrears, and waivered its membership fees for 2020. The district has recently appointed an effective and experience Group Scout Leader to act in the role to assist with the development of this group. • 16th St Helens (St Thomas’s) – the 16th is currently missing a Beaver Colony due to the recent resignation of the leadership team for personal reasons. The District’s People Team are currently supporting the Group Scout Leader with the recruitment of new adults. Once this is complete the District’s Programme team will go to support the new leaders in developing the Section. • 1st Knowsley (Earl of Derby’s Own) – the 1st Knowsley has been a successful Group for over 50 years, however issues with the land their HQ stands on has resulted in the building falling into a poor state of repair. This has led to only the Scout section meeting. The District is currently supporting the group dealing with the local authority to resolve the ownership and legal issues. Whilst the group (with support from the local community) completes essential repairs to the building. This investment in development across the District will ensure that we are able to continue to offer the adventure of Scouting to 3 communities where the provision can be strengthened.
#SkillsForLife Page 9 #SkillsForLife Page 23 Assistant District Commissioner (Beavers) Report
Beavers Ages 6-8
2019 has seen a fun packed year for the Beaver Section. We have over the last year tried widening the offering we make to our youngest section and continue to offer Skills For Life across all aspects of the sections programme.
2019 once again saw the Beavers join in the Liverpool Cathedral Sleep Out, in association with the Whitechapel Centre. Although sleeping in the vast space of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral is a huge adventure, to join so many of your fiends from not only across St Helens but the whole Merseyside County family of Scouts makes it more memorable. The Beaver Section is incredibly proud to be participating in this event as it not only offers some of the young people their first residential experience away from home in such a special place. It also brings a spotlight on the Whitechapel Centre and the fantastic work they are doing with Liverpool’s Homeless Community.
This year also saw the introduction of the District Beaver Summer Badge Day. This event was the brainchild of several leaders from across the District. We wanted to be able to offer the Beavers the chance to obtain some of those hard to achieve badges. This year saw activities like soap carving, science experiments, fire lighting, mini pioneering and much more. Our thanks go to the Leaders from the 8th St Helens (Sutton) for supporting and hosting this event.
Our handicraft competition this year was a messy one, our Beavers had 3 chances to create 3 devices that would stop an egg from breaking when dropped from height with only a few household objects. The creativity and imagine that the Beavers displayed was fantastic. While not all of them protected their precious cargo. It was especially funny to watch the DC being covered in egg as the official drop zone checker. Our thanks go to the Leaders from the 5th St Helens (Rainhill Open) for supporting and hosting this event.
Our Summer break saw a lot of the section come together for a District Fun Day at the Shining Light Centre in Parr, who hosted us for a jam-packed day. From roller discos to bush skills and everything in between, it was fantastic to see so many beavers out in the sunshine and enjoying developing skills that they will be able to enhance and master as thy move through the sections.
2019 closed out with the fantastic Christmas Capers event at Tawd Vale Adventure Centre. So many of our young people went and experience the full Christmas wonderland laid on by the County Team. It was a truly magical event and topped off 2019 off in style. I don’t know how they managed it but they even convinced Father Christmas to call in to see us all. He must obviously be a Scout.
Thank you to all the Leaders, helpers, parents and guardians and young people for everything they have done this year. Helen Helen Archibald Assistant District Commissioner Beavers
#SkillsForLife Page 11 #SkillsForLife Page 25 Assistant District Commissioner (Cubs) Report
Cubs Ages 8-11
Since the last AGM the end of 2019 was a busy time for the cubs.
Our District camp at Bispham was a great weekend with a circus theme. The cubs had the opportunity to learn circus skills in a special workshop on the Saturday. Our skills evening was very popular, the cubs tried their skills at orienteering, knots, water challenges, code breaking and trying to get their sleeping bags back into its bag (always proves to be impossible for some). A really good fun evening. Finishing with a campfire.
After our summer break we began again with our weekend at the Waterside lodge in Southport where the cubs can practice their water skills, canoeing, sailing etc. gaining the paddle sports badge. The weekend coincided with Space week, so we incorporated this into the activities for the weekend. the cubs created an amazing collage of space in the style of Jackson Pollock. We did a night hike to look at the stars and constellations and raised money for Pudsey and Children in need. This weekend is always very rewarding.
By request the Carol service this year was outside at Bispham under the barn. Unfortunately, the weather and other things were against us. So, we will be back indoors for our next Carol service. February saw a double decker filled with cubs and leaders off to the Pantomime a great fun afternoon, the cubs were well behaved, and it was a great show enjoyed by everybody.
Due to the current situation this is where, unfortunately, our district face to face activities were brought to a halt. But I am pleased to say that lots of the leaders have worked especially hard to ensure that cub scouting has continued be it in a totally different way. Lots of packs meet weekly via zoom. Cubs are using technology to track their activities, emailing pictures, photographs of their crafts, letters from parents about what they have been doing etc. Packs have taken part in ‘Camp at home’, the ‘CRE8 craft’ challenge together with ‘Walking to the moon’, leaders are presenting programmes challenges and badgework to keep the cubs engaged. At present the cubs are working though ‘TYTTT’ ‘Taking You to The Top challenge. This is a programme to help with scouting at home and to support our young people to achieve their top awards.
So, although Scouting at present is not what we are used to, may I take this opportunity to thank all the leaders, helpers, parents and carers and the cubs themselves for their continuous enthusiasm and hard work in ensuring that our young people continue to experience the great adventure of Scouting.
Stay Safe
Julie Julie Houlton Assistant District Commissioner (Cubs)
#SkillsForLife Page 13 #SkillsForLife Page 27 Assistant District Commissioner (Scouts) Report
Scouts Ages 11-14
So, second year in the post, they kept me on! Taste the World competition which was held at scout HQ on Sunday the 9th of June. Yet again what a brilliant day for scouts to come together, cooking on open fires and then doing brilliant presentations on the countries they had. We had 8 teams from the district competing. The winners of the cooking element were the 26th with Germany, 2nd place 26th with Mozambique and in 3rd place was 16th with Japan. The presentations winners were 26th with Mozambique, 2nd place 16th with South Africa and 3rd place 26th with Germany. I would like to say a big thank you to the Scouts for making it a tremendous event, plus their Leaders for letting them participate. Also, thanks to Dave Singleton, Les Rowe and DC Chris Valentine for being judges and handing out the Medals. On the 5th of July till the 7th of July we had our District summer Scout camp at Waddecar Scout Activity Centre. The scouts really enjoyed it as they kept telling me over the weekend. Some of the highlights were chips! on the backwoods cooking site, the wood turning. A big thank you to all the activities run by the group leaders, volunteers on the climbing and the wood turning and the catering team, we could not do it without you all. Ps I know now that you need to book online shopping dates a in plenty of time!!
Well done to all the teams who took part. The 26th won the Chariot of Chariots Trophy and the 21st won the highest placed St Helens trophy. St. Helens District Scouts Lord Derby 999 Competition was on the Sunday 29th September 2019. 7 teams took part, on a very wet day, but a great day with lots of smiles from all the scouts. 1st 18th St Helens A, 2nd 16th St Thomas, 3rd 21st Newton-le -Willows. A big thank you to all the Leaders who put bases on, I hope you dried out quickly. JOTI was on Saturday 19th October 2019 Andrew from the 21st opened this up for scouts to come down and take part and a few groups did. I would like to say a big thank you Andrew Steele and the other leaders from the 21st for doing this. On 1st of November we had our Young Person’s Award Evening. It was held at the Town Hall where we had a lot of scouts claim their Chief Scouts awards. Plus, the troop of the year trophy was given out to the 21St Newton-Le Willows for their commitment to the district events throughout the year. 17th of November was the district cyclocross at Bispham Hall. The scouts that took part enjoyed it, well done to the 18th St Helens and 15th St Helens for winning over 12.5 and under 12.5 age groups. Thank you to the district team and the leaders who help on the day.
At the end of January there was a County District PL’s weekend at Bispham Hall. There were two groups from St Helens district who attended. On 22nd of February saw the return of the Equinox challenge to the District calendar. Again, the Explorer groups ran the challenge. Fantastic turnout at short notice, 17 teams took part. Congratulations to the 18th Haydock in first place with 26th Blackbrook in 2nd and 3rd place. A big thank to all the Explorer teams and Scout Leaders for organising the return of this event. Then covid-19 occurred, which stopped face to face scouting and all the Events which were due to happen the rest of this year. As for the groups, they moved over to online meetings where they have been doing well.
Thank you to Chris DC and all the District team for all their help throughout the year. Glen Glen Melling Assistant District Commissioner Scouts
#SkillsForLife Page 15 #SkillsForLife Page 29 District Explorer Scout Commissioners Report
Explorer Scouts Age 14-18
The Explorer section has seen an active year with each of the units regularly meeting and undertaking a varied and stimulating programme.
We have enjoyed supporting district and section events within our units and through the Young Leader scheme, helping at the district St. George’s Event, Windings, and District Scout Camp a well as joint unit events at Chariot Race, Mersey Moot and our Christmas Inflatable Bounce party.
County wide we have had section representation in last years Explorer Belt international expedition and representing the County at the International Jamboree held in North America.
2019 brought a review of how the section services the whole District and the local Scout Groups, leading to the decision to close both the Anonymoose and Newton Rams units and the creation of a new unit based in Haydock to better support the area, more information on this to follow when Scouting reconvenes face to face.
Just before ‘shutdown’ we ran our Equinox Challenge competition which was supported by the Scout section with 17 scout teams and five Explorer catching teams. The weather was on our side with the clouds clearing and the sun coming out for the duration of the event. A brilliant effort from all the teams who took part and the catcher teams who kept everyone on their toes, and appreciation for the help on the day from the scout leadership team who helped out being course marshals. Congratulations go to the 18th St Helens Scout Team and to the Newton Ram Catcher team who won the Scout and Explorer trophies respectively.
Post lockdown the units continue to be active online and counting the days until we can meet back together and get away for more adventures.
A mention should go to members of Sutton Scorpions and James Long who have been 3D printing face masks and visors for the NHS and supporting the much appreciated battle against the pandemic.
This report would not be concluded without my thanks going to the leadership teams of the Units who weekly put the effort in to support their individual activities and those of the District team.
Chris Maw District Explorer Scout Commissioner
#SkillsForLife Page 17 Membership (as of 31st January 2020)
Member Type Male Female Total
YOUTH MEMBERSHIP
Beaver Scouts 176 49 225
Cub Scouts 260 58 318 Scouts 165 63 228
Explorer Scouts 52 26 78
Network Members 40 23 63 TOTAL YOUTH MEMBERSHIP 693 219 912
LEADERSHIP
Sections Leaders 33 24 57
Assistant Section Leaders 51 25 76
Section Assistants 8 14 22 Group Scout Leaders & Assistants 10 12 22
Young Leaders 24 13 37
District Youth Commissioners 0 0 0 District Commissioners, Deputies & 8 5 13 Assistants Group Supporters & Others 31 25 56
District Supporters & Others 8 4 12
TOTAL LEADERSHIP 173 122 295
ORGANISATIONAL SUPPORT
Group Exec 26 16 42
District Office Bearers/Exec 5 5 10
Active Support 3 8 13 TOTAL ORGANISATIONAL SUPPORT 35 29 64
TOTAL MEMBERSHIP 901 370 1271
#SkillsForLife Page 22 Feeling great about yourself. There isn’t a badge for that, but there should be. #SkillsForLif e Statement of Trustees Responsibilities
The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice) and the Charities Act 2011.
The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the Trustees are required to:
a) Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently. b) Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP. c) Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent. d) State whether UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements. e) Prepare the financial statements on a 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, disclosing with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity. This enables the trustees to ensure that the financial statements comply with United Kingdom Accounting Standards, the Charities Act and the provisions of the trust deed. 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.
Systems of internal control are designed to provide reasonable, but not absolute assurance against material mismanagement or loss. They include:
• An annual budget approved by the Trustees. • Appropriate delegation of authority and segregation of duties. • Identification and management of risks.
This report was approved by the Trustees at the Executive Committee meeting held on 23 June 2020 and it was agreed that the District Chairman would sign it on behalf of the Trustees.
Signed on behalf of the Trustees of St Helens and District Scout Council.
Frank Grayson District Chair of Trustees
23 June 2020
#SkillsForLife Page 20 ST HELENS AND DISTRICT SCOUT COUNCIL TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE PERIOD ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2019
Name of Charity: St Helens and District Scout Association.
Charity Registration Number: 1053261.
Address: St Helens and District Scouts District Headquarters, Hawthorn Road, St Helens, Merseyside WA9 4PT
President: Mr Michael Harrison Esq.
District Commissioner: Mr. Christopher Valentine-Burrows RNA.
Trustees at 31 December 2019: Ex Officio: Chris Valentine-Burrows District Commissioner Frank Grayson District Chair John Beech District Treasurer Michael Mills District Secretary Vacant District Youth Commissioner Christopher Maw District Explorer Scout Commissioner Jennifer Miller District Network Scout Commissioner Thomas Howarth Ditto
Elected & Nominated: Kathleen Savery Julie Houlton Christine Williams David Singleton Susan Miller Jennifer Tickle Annette Peers Vincent Roberts Terence Gregson Craig McKee Lesley Rowe Helen Archibald Diane Roberts Glen Melling Karen Ackers Edith Bache
Independent Examiner: J Podestta, FCA
Bankers: CAF Bank Plc National Westminster Bank Plc
#SkillsForLife Page 21 Governing Instrument
The Charity's governing documents are those of The Scout Association. They consist of a Royal Charter, which in turn gives authority to the Bye Laws of the Association and The Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association.
Trustee Membership of Sub-Committees at 31 December 2019
Finance: Frank Grayson (Chair) John Beech (Treasurer) Annette Peers Christine Williams Lesley Rowe David Singleton Vincent Roberts Kathleen Savery
Buildings: Frank Grayson (Chair) Lesley Rowe (HQ Manager) David Singleton Terry Gregson Kenneth Roughly Christopher Maw Craig McKee
Policy, Development & Awards: Frank Grayson (Chair) Lesley Rowe Jennifer Tickle Julie Houlton Christopher Maw Christine Williams Craig McKee
Appointments: Mike Mills (Chair) Kenneth Roughley (Secretary) Lesley Rowe David Singleton Christine Williams Christopher Maw Glen Melling Julie Houlton Helen Archibald
The District Commissioner attends all Sub-Committees. Other Trustees attend sub- committees as appropriate.
#SkillsForLife Page 22 Background and Objectives
The Charity is well established, and following major initiatives continues to grow. Providing a challenging programme of everyday adventure, the charity’s work leads to the development of skills for life and good citizenship amongst its membership, aged between 6 and 25 years. Through the support of dedicated and well- trained adult leadership, members achieve self-confidence, an understanding of international matters, a sense of community and respect for others as well as themselves.
The Trustees have the powers to raise funds through subscription and other methods to support the work of the Council. The Trustees are fully aware of their responsibilities for the stewardship of the District assets, particularly the principle asset, District Headquarters. This is achieved through frequent meetings and the monitoring of regular financial reports.
In planning our activities for the year, we kept in mind the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit at our Trustee meetings.
Management and Governance Arrangements
The Executive Committee consists of ex officio members, elected members, & members nominated by the District Commissioner - including young members aged between 18 & 25 years. The Executive meets at least five times per annum. Sufficient time is given to ensure business is effectively managed.
The Executive uses its powers to create sub-committees and these are supported by Trustees and co-opted members. Currently these comprise Finance, Buildings, Policy Development & Awards, and Appointments. These sub-committees meet as appropriate, reporting to the Executive Committee.
Trustees set an annual budget seeking best value in achieving the Council’s objectives. Risks, challenges, and opportunities are reviewed, mainly through the sub-committee structure.
Financial Review
Scouting in St Helens continues to experience a difficult economic situation - just like similar organisations. We face increased input costs, reduced investment returns and resistance to increases in charges made. Work continues to maximise the use of all District assets, particularly District Headquarters.
Despite the careful stewardship of the District’s finances, the Trustees report that during the period the total funds fell by £4,679. This is due to the operation of the charity and its investment in a new District programme of activities, the management of recent public relations, and recruitment campaigns. The District also suffered the withdrawal of grant funding from the Ravensdale Trust of £2,000 and Mushroom Trust of £500.
The total funds now stand at £97,522 of which £95,752 is unrestricted, including £32,000 designated for specific purposes by the Trustees.
Aims and Policies of the Trustees
The Trustees share the overall aims of the Scout Association. Within the structure of the Scout Association, St Helens and District Scout Council provides leadership, advice and support to Scout Districts and Groups within the St Helens and Knowsley geographic area. They encourage the achievement of the aims of the Scout Association through the use of the Scout Method.
#SkillsForLife Page 23 The Charity provides the following services: -
• Administrative and advisory support to all, Scout Groups and Units within St Helens and Knowsley. • Administration, maintenance, and development of District Headquarters to provide safe facilities for use by the Groups/Units. • Organisation of events and activities to broaden the challenges available to young people and enhance the Scout programme and make it exciting. • Leadership training and support services together with wider support for corporate matters. • Representation of Scouting in St Helens on appropriate bodies in the wider community. • Support for specific development projects in challenging areas.
Organisation and Decision Making
The Executive Committee exists to support the work of the District Commissioner, their team, & to provide governance of the charity. Overall governance, financial and legal responsibility rests with the Executive Committee as Trustees of St Helens and District Scout Council. The Trustees are under the Chairmanship of Frank Grayson and they are supported and advised by sub-committees as required.
Risk and Internal Control
The Executive Committee has identified the major risks to which they believe the Scout District is exposed and systems are in hand to mitigate against them: -
• Damage to buildings, property, and equipment. The district has buildings and contents insurance in place to mitigate against permanent loss. • Injury to leaders, helpers, supporters, and members. The district, through membership fees, contribute to the Scout Association’s national accident insurance policy, backed up by additional insurances to increase benefits, if appropriate. • Risk Assessments are undertaken before all activities and a set of Operating Procedures are in place which are subject to regular monitoring and review. • The District holds reserves to ensure the continuance of activities should there be a major income shortfall. Subscription income is reviewed annually. • Ongoing support is given to the recruitment and retention of both leaders and youth members. Any reductions in membership to an unacceptable level would result in contraction, consolidation, or closures.
Reserves
The Executive’s policy is to hold sufficient monies to continue the charitable activities of the District. The Committee considers that it should hold a sum equivalent to 12 months costs, circa £10,000 in unrestricted funds. The District holds unrestricted, undesignated reserves of some £95,752 at the period end.
It has been identified by the Trustees that District Headquarters requires a significant investment to enable the provision of a first-class experience for all users. The Building Sub-Committee are producing a full review in conjunction with the District Commissioner, of the requirements of the site and to formulate a Strategic Plan. In addition, the District Executive is supporting the Sub-Committee with the aim of generating substantial funds to develop District Headquarters into the focus of Activities in St Helens.
#SkillsForLife Page 24 Investments
The Executive regularly monitors the level of balances held, and the interest rates available to ensure best value is achieved from financial holdings. This remains incredibly challenging at the present time given the depressed level of UK interest rates.
Serious Incidents
• There have been no serious incidents recorded during the period. • All adult volunteers are required to attend First Aid, Safety and Safeguarding training to protect vulnerable beneficiaries, as appropriate to their role. • All adults working with or in contact with children are regularly vetted through the DBS procedures.
The District adheres to these policies and follows a protocol to resolve any reported incidents. This is essential for maintaining public trust in Scouting and safeguarding our reputation.
#SkillsForLife Page 25 Independent examiner’s Report to the Trustees of St Helens and District Scout Council
I report on the accounts of the Council for the year ending 28 February 2019, which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet and related notes set out on pages 15 to 29.
This report is made solely to the trustees in accordance with Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the charity's trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an Independent Examiner's report and for no other purposes. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity's trustees for my examination work.
Respective responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. They consider that an audit is not required for this year (under Section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act)) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to: · • Examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 • To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act); and • To state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of the Independent Examiner’s report My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair' view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
Independent Examiner’s statement In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in, any material respect, the requirements: • to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act • to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act
the trustees have not met; or
(2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Name: J Podestta Qualification: FCA Address: 100 Billinge Road Ashton in Makerfield, Wigan, WN4 0XD
#SkillsForLife Page 26 St Helens and District Scout Association Receipts & Payments account Year Ended 31 December 2019
Receipts and Payments Account 2018/19 2017/18 Unrestricted Designated Total Total Funds Funds Funds Funds £ £ £ £ Receipts Capitation Fees 42,190 42,190 43,236 Less: Capitation fees paid on 36,932 36,932 37,720 Net capitation fees retained 5,258 0 5,258 5,516 Donations 0 0 2,550 5,258 0 5,258 8,066 Grants etc Ravensdale Trust 2,000 2,000 4,000 Other Grants 0 0 0 2,000 0 2,000 4,000 Fundraising etc Jamboree 0 8,598 8,598 10,074 Income from Scoutaround 0 0 0 Income from Beavers 0 0 946 Income from Cubs 0 0 258 Income from Scouts 74 74 432 Income from Explorers 0 0 0 Cross Country 0 0 0 Swimming Gala 0 0 118 HQ Rent 45 45 180 Badges 379 379 0 St Georges Day 0 0 0 Miscellaneous income 3,238 3,238 231 3,736 8,598 12,334 12,239 Investment Income Bank interest 48 48 22 Other Investment income 207 207 184 255 0 255 206
Total Gross Income 11,249 8,598 19,847 24,511
Disposal of investments 0 0 0 0
Total receipts 11,249 8,598 19,847 24,511
#SkillsForLife Page 27 St Helens and District Scout Association Receipts & Payments account Year Ended 31 December 2019
Receipts and Payments Account 2018/19 2017/18 Unrestricted Designated Total Total Funds Funds Funds Funds £ £ £ £ Payments Jamboree Payments 0 6,517 6,517 10,280 St Georges Day expenses 3,191 3,191 165 Charitable donations 0 0 0 Training expenses 840 840 395 Scoutaround 0 0 0 Beaver expenditure 0 0 851 Explorer Activities 58 58 266 Cub expenditure 0 0 1,566 Scout expenditure 0 0 0 Group activities 0 0 0 Big Adventure 0 0 0 Development Grant 0 0 0 H Q Upkeep 3,253 3,253 1,810 Public relations 4,440 4,440 310 Development Expenses 85 85 0 Cross country 0 0 0 Swimming Gala 0 0 0 DC Conference 0 0 0 Room hire 1,419 1,419 937 District Officers expenses 1,411 1,411 1,097 Insurance 1,238 1,238 912 Badges 427 427 0 Independent examiners fee 100 100 100 AGM expenses 158 158 199 Bank charges 90 90 85 Donations 0 0 0 Sundry expenses 1,299 1,299 1,620
Total Expenditure 18,009 6,517 24,526 20,593
Investments acquired 0 0 0 0
Total Payments 18,009 6,517 24,526 20,593
Net of receipts/(payments) (6,760) 2,081 (4,679) 3,918
#SkillsForLife Page 28 Fund Transfers 0 0 0 0
Other Transfers 0 0 0 0
Surplus/(deficit) for year (6,760) 2,081 (4,679) 3,918
Balance brought forward 102,512 (311) 102,201 98,283
Reserves as at 31 December 2019 95,752 1,770 97,522 102,201
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#SkillsForLife Page 29 St Helens and District Scout Association Statement of assets and liabilities Year Ended 31 December 2019
Statement of assets and liabilities as at 31 December 2019 2018/2019 2017/18 Unrestricted Designated Total Total Funds Funds Funds Funds £ £ £ £ Cash Funds Bank balances 83,392 1,770 85,162 90,193 Sundry Debtors 550 550 298 Building society account 0 0 0 Scout Association Short Term Investment 2,701 2,701 2,701 Cash floats 0 0 343 Total Cash Funds 86,643 1,770 88,413 93,535
Other monetary assets Group Loans 0 0 220 0 0 0 220
Investment Assets National Income Bonds 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 0 18,000 18,000
Non-Monetary assets Badge Stock 351 351 925 351 0 351 925
Liabilities Capitation fees not yet paid 0 0 0 Sundry creditors and accruals 9,242 9,242 10,479 9,242 10,479 0 9,242
Net Assets at 31.12.19 95,752 1,770 97,522 102,201
Reserves as at 31.12.19 95,752 1,770 97,522 102,201
#SkillsForLife Page 30 Those campfire chats that build friendships which last a lifetime. Type to enter text
St Helens and District St Helens and District Scouts District Headquarters, Hawthorn Road, St Helens Merseyside, WA9 4PT Email: [email protected] Web: sthelensscouts.org.uk
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