Lincolnshire Scouts - Latest News

1sy Cranwell Cubs YouTube Channel

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 17:44:59 GMT

1ST Cranwell Lockdown Challenges

1St Cranwell Cubs took to YouTube during Lockdown with a variety of challenges. Take a look at their channel and see what they have got upto.

Taking the Lead! - Volunteering Opportunities with the UK Contingent Team for the 2023 World Scout Jamboree in South Korea

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 15:22:07 GMT

World Scout Jamboree 2023 - find out about UK Contingent opportunities

The next World Scout Jamboree takes place in South Korea, in Summer 2023. The Scouts will send thousands of young people to this amazing event, and we will be looking to recruit a diverse, motivated team of volunteers to lead this trip.

Join the UK Contingent webinar for a presentation and Q&A with Scouts volunteers who have worked on previous international UK Contingents to world scouting events - and loved it! This is your chance to find out what it's like to be on the Contingent Management & Support Team (CMT/CMST) for a World Scout Jamboree, so you can decide if the opportunity is for you.

Come and hear from panelists such as Caroline Pearce, who led the UK Contingent to the World Scout Jamboree in North America in 2019, and from members of her team who did various planning roles. You can then ask any (serious or silly) questions that spring to mind, such as:
"How did you pick the jamboree mascot?"
or "How much £££ does this cost? How did you fundraise for this?"
or "Are you all still in touch? Was it easy to make friends on the team?"
or "How easy/hard is it to get selected?"

The UK Contingent welcomes volunteers from all walks of life, even if you are brand new to scouting. A world jamboree trip is an incredible thing to be part of, and we'd love to have someone like *you* on the next incredible planning team.

[The webinar will be recorded for the benefit of anyone who cannot make it live. Please join us live if you can though - we want to hear your questions!]

New Webinar: Mental Health & Wellbeing

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 12 Jul 2020 15:11:18 GMT

Webinar Description:
Tim Kidd talked about why resilience matters in his Blog of 3 December 2019 (read the blog here) and reflected that he had just been listening to Bear Grylls on Radio 2.

Bear was asked what he’d take on an expedition and his answer, Tim thought, was quite brilliant: ‘That never-give-up spirit.’ Tim felt that summed up everything we’re doing as volunteers. Giving young people the courage, positivity and resilience to keep going, even in the toughest times.

Here Lyn Harte from Resilient Rutland talks about resources that could help leaders in this area https://resilientrutland.co.uk/.
View the webinar here.

New Webinar: Sustainable Development Goals

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 01 Jul 2020 10:11:12 GMT

Tony Malone - World Scouting, Diversity and Inclusion volunteer speaks to Lincolnshire Scouts about how Scouts can be the agent that fosters change and in changing times, how we leave no one behind.
View the webinar here.

Lincolnshire Scouts at Lincolnshire Show

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 11:11:27 GMT

The Great Indoors - for members and non members

Our digital stand at the Lincolnshire Show featured the nationwide opportunity for anyone to enjoy Scouts and achieve a badge.

While we normally love the great outdoors, Scouts have pulled together some inspired indoor activity ideas for all to enjoy in The Great Indoors .

You don’t have to be an existing member, and you can either browse the activities yourself or we can send activities straight to your inbox.

Even if you don't pick up regular activities, you can get involved by joining The Great Indoors Weekender , the UK’s biggest digital summer camp 11–12 July .

With surprise celebrity guests, cooking, crafts, music and UK-wide campfire, 6–18 year olds will have fun while giving stuff a go, thinking, and playing.

You can register as an individual or as a section, group or even district.

The weekend is completely free so we can keep helping young people gain #SkillsForLife

This year the Lincolnshire Show moved online and Lincolnshire Scouts were proud to be part of the new format.

Click here to land in our area and from there, if you didn't watch live, you can explore the dgital showground - watch main arena displays, view interviews and browse exhibitors.

Below are pictures of our award winning stand in 2019.

Scouts of the World Award (SOWA) Discovery Event

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 21 Jun 2020 16:05:26 GMT

Scouts of the World Award (SOWA) – Discovery Event

On the 17th, 18th and 25th July 2020, Lincolnshire Scouts are holding a virtual Scouts of the World Award Discovery event. This event is open to Scout Network members from across Lincolnshire.

Please Note: We have adopted the guidance from UKHQ allowing Scout Network members until their 26th birthday to complete the top awards (SOWA, QSA and Explorer Belt) due to the current restrictions caused by Coronavirus.

All sessions will be run through Zoom, so you will need access to the internet for the duration of the sessions as listed below;

Friday 17th July 19:30 - 21:30
Saturday 18th July 09:00 - 16:15
Saturday 25th July 09:30 - 13:45

If you rely on mobile data or have a capped download limit and attending these sessions could exceed these, please get in touch with programme@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk .

Throughout the event, you will learn about the Sustainable Development Goals and how you can complete your own 80-hour project to earn you the Scouts of the World Award.
To register for the Scouts of the World Award, Network members must have attended a Discovery event of 14 hours.

There is no cost for the Discovery event but places are limited

(If, after booking, you can no longer attend, please cancel your ticket to allow someone else to benefit from the place).

To find out more about the award visit: www.scouts.org.uk/network/awards/scouts-of-the-world-award/

New Webinar: DofE with a Difference

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 20:47:09 GMT

View the DofE with a Difference webinar here.

New Webinar: Programme on the Web

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 20:45:34 GMT

View the Programmes on the Web webinar here.

Volunteers Week - Sunday

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 07:16:18 GMT

Congratulations. You are amazing.

UK Chief Commissioner Tim Kidd said, ‘I’m acutely aware of the importance of the millions of volunteers in the UK who give up their time every single day to help others. With the majority of volunteers saying they feel more motivated, confident and more skilled as a result of the work they do with us, it’s not just those they’re helping who benefit.

Steve Reed, Shadow Minister (Civil Society) said, ‘A huge congratulations to the community heroes who deliver Scouting locally, week in, week out. Employers should do all they can to support their staff to volunteer with such fantastic organisations like Scouting. Not only does it benefit the communities they are based in, it leads to healthier, more motivated workforce.’

The following volunteers have been nominated for a Commissioners Commendation. Bravo to all of you

Mathew Jordan

Alicia Cole

Alison Elwess

Bridget Palmer

Howard Nelson

Carolyn Grieg

Heidi Latronico-Ferris

Jan Simmonds

Paul Scholes

Lisa Stevenson

Claudia Rugg

Gillian Cocker

Agnieszka Kozlowska

Laura Roberts

Kieran Morris

Robert Cox

Sue Newbatt

Amanda Maslin

Liane Johnson

Sue Baxter

Ben Read

Gary Chisholm

William Baldock

Richard Harvey

Father James Titley

Andrew Taylor

Rupert Capleton

Katie Symonds

Marian Barton

Jenny Higgs

Gary Swift

Peter Bonner

Maddie James

Sara Mathieson

Claire Thomas

Rebbeca Warren

Amy Knychala

John Aidley

Jo Dawes

Leslie Romans

Claire Collier

Jenny Wynn

Leanne Wrentmore

Wendy Smith

Ben Leaver

Scouts of the World Award - Information Session

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 15:46:51 GMT

Scouts of the World Award (SOWA) is a Scout Network only award that gives Scout Network members the chance to undertake a project of their choice within the themes of Peace, Environment and Sustainability and take action on their chosen issue.

Lincolnshire Scouts are going to be running an information session on June 10th at 7.30pm to outline what the award is and what is involved. Following the session, if there is the demand then the team will put on a Discovery Event for those Network members to start their award.

This session is open for any Network aged member and any adult who supports this section.

Volunteers Week - Saturday

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 06:34:13 GMT

Scouts only exists because you make it happen.

We know how lucky we are that we have dedicated volunteers to make the business end of Lincolnshire Scouts happen.

Whether it is helping manage finance, support administration in the county office, delivering IT, sharing communications, making sure governance is in place and we meet the requirements of Scouts HQ and the Charities Commission.

All of these high-quality corporate functions from our volunteers

Not only that but you help us appoint our adults into their roles, train them and make sure they are recognised for their commitment with awards. You really are spectacular.

There is a massive amount of financial management required to make sure that accurate Finance records are maintained. It is everyone’s responsibility but some of our volunteers take roles that have more accountability. Whether it is maintaining records of monies received (e.g. for activities, camps, membership subscriptions, donations) and money spent (e.g. on bills, fees for activities, volunteer expenses, approving payments from a Scouting bank account or contributing to the creation and management of a budget.

To carry out these tasks effectively you will need to ensure that you keep relevant receipts, invoices, bank statements and balance sheets as appropriate, to ensure that there is a clear audit trail to explain any financial records

You can find an easy Budget Planner here to use with your teams to get more information on planned spend and income from their events and activities and information on bank accounts, funds and online banking here .

Our use of IT has never been greater and for all our volunteers who help others to access emails and services such as Workplace , Teams and Microsoft 365 . Our Digital Support page will show you how to access some of those and we will be providing regular updates for user tips on our new look website.

Lincolnshire Scouts has provided a scouting email for every member. Not only will this help you keep all your Scouting information together and provide a recognisable, trusted address to your families and contacts but it will also act as the username key to additional digital tools.

If you have any questions or problems with the current technical options, please do register on the service desk and submit your ticket which will be passed to the most appropriate person to answer.

If you are helping support IT in your District do let us know and we will link you as a support contact for any queries that are received on the service desk for your group or district. If you are happy to help fellow volunteers across the county please do consider the current tasks we need assistance with and get in touch.

Did you know that subscriptions for OSM are now being paid by Lincolnshire Scouts. If you haven’t yet moved onto the county agreement, please contact the county office for instruction on how to do this and find out if you can claim back costs to 1st August 2019.

If you haven’t signed up for OSM yet, please contact the county office to find out how to do this, save time and change the way you complete your admin for the better, for good.

Internal and external Communications with our members, families, the wider public all take some time to put together and coordinate. If you already take care of communications where you are let us know so we can publish the network of like-minded volunteers. We’re soon going to be looking for people who can help us with some projects and tasks across the county so keep a look on our update on how you can help us .

Scouts publish branding guidelines which can help style your messages and updates and the brand centre you can customize and download lots of different types of publication to help inform and celebrate your local scouting.

None of our volunteers do what they do for the recognition but we do find ways to say thank you with Awards for service and special recognition for those who stand out as being extra special.

Awards Advisory Groups support and provide guidance to local Scouting with awards and recognitions of service, as well as considering the applications for specific awards and making recommendations to the Chief Scout. They will also monitor rules and procedures concerning awards and recognition.

If you would like to nominate someone for an award consider the citation masterclass notes to help you make a nomination that stand out as much as the nominee.

Many key decisions are made through our Governance processes, ranging from deciding where to hold the next event to appointing the UK Chief Scout. Governance in Groups, Districts and Counties refers to the Executive Committee, who are the Board of Trustees responsible for Scouting in that area. On a national level, The Scout Association is governed by the Scout Council and the national Board of Trustees.

Ensuring the voices of young people influence each of these processes is vital to help the decisions we make stay true to the needs and priorities of those they affect. District and County Youth Commissioners provide that voice for the all the young people within our membership. In 2021, Lincolnshire will be appointing the next Youth Commissioner, if you'd like to find out from Vicky what is involved or would like to be a youth representative in any of our support functions, please do get in touch .

Adult volunteers in certain roles are required to complete Training which is rewarded by the receiving of Wood Beads, taking inspiration from a necklace brought back from Africa by Scouting’s Founder, Robert Baden-Powell.

Training Managers in the County or Districts will help provide training opportunities to meet these module requirements and a network of training advisors can either validate your learning or identify where your skills already show that you are competent in that area. Volunteers who hold manager roles, must be validated by a Training Advisor for Managers and Supporters. Remember, training is optional - validation is mandatory. You can demonstrate your skills by being observed, writing down your knowledge or talking it through to see if previous experience helps you through.

In the Scouts member emails you will have seen a request to make sure you are up to date with Mandatory Training . Safety and Safeguarding of all our members remains our number one priority. Any of your team members who have overdue mandatory training on their compass record should complete this and submit their certificate for validation as soon as possible. You can read the request from Chief Commissioner Tim Kidd here and read more about the reasons why here .

Whether you are new to Scouting or taking on a new role as an existing member, the Appointments process is the same. You apply, we make sure the disclosure check is in place, we follow up on your references, you visit the appointments panel and then you are approved (or not) for that role by the Commissioner.

It's not a scary procedure, we want you to be a volunteer! We just make sure that you know what you are taking on, what our expectations are, what your requirements and ideas might be and if there are any areas where we might agree that additional support would be beneficial.

The County Office is where our one staff member works from. The County Secretary makes sure that the County and District teams are connected and informed.

Here you can find out all you might need to know about Scouting in the county, borrow banners and obtain recruitment materials. The office is open Monday to Friday and you can call 01522 546390 or email your enquiries for response or allocation.

If you are interested in any of the information or roles we have talked about this week, whether or not we are actively recruiting in that area, please do get in touch and let us know what you are interested in and we can link you with the right team.

Scouts HQ at Gilwell Park provide the central coordination for all the federated charities across the country. All the Counties and Districts pay towards and rely upon HQ functions which amongst others includes branding, legal services, safeguarding support, provision of policy, organisation and rules, linking us with the World Organisation of Scouting Movements, answering all our queries about Scouting activity, property advice and lobbying nationally and beyond for UK Scouts to be noticed and represented amongst youth organisations.

Member calls and emails are not just for those who Scout directly with young people. Please make sure that your contact details are correct on Compass and if you can join or listen later on membership calls. The next call is on 24th June and there are some great signposts to information that is relevant to support volunteers, especially now.

If you are an adult member you do need a DBS check. At the moment we can't complete the checks but we can invite you to join us and find out what you would like to help with. We just won't leave you with young people who are not your own until that has been completed.

You may have received recently, or will soon receive, an email from the Scout Association advising you that DBS checks are overdue and non-completion could lead to your membership being suspended.

Please disregard this message and any subsequent reminders. You will not be suspended at this time, even though your DBS has expired.

Unfortunately, it was not possible to reprogram the membership admin system to stop sending these emails but you are assured membership status is secure.

The range of expertise all our support volunteers bring to Lincolnshire Scouts is broad and professional. While our focus is on the young people of our membership, we know that to be this good we couldn't do it without you.

Thank you

Volunteers Week - Friday

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 23:46:02 GMT

You don't have to commit to every week, every camp or every fundraiser to be a Scout volunteer.

Occasional helpers are a really important part of our team. When you can't commit to a regular task but can be there 'as and when', especially for the things you like doing, occasional volunteering offers a flexible way to enrich young lives.

Young people wouldn't make it to Scouts without the encouragement, uniform, kit, transport and confidence they are given by their parents and carers. Thanks for being there for them and especially recently, for us too.

The Lincolnshire Scouts website provides lots of information for members but this also gives parents and carers an opportunity to view and see what our volunteers do and how they are supported to bring Scouting to your young people. If you have any questions about content on the website or would like to see particular information made available please do let us know .

Occasional helpers, are just that, people who help out occasionally to make sure Scouts happens. Whether you are the trailer tower, the sandwich maker, the newsletter author or the nominated point of contact for updates during a trip away, your input is invaluable.

•    you don't have to have children in Scouting
•    you don't need to come every week
•    you don't have to wear uniform or make a promise
•    you can pick and choose what you help us with
•    you do need to let us know you are willing

Please speak to a local leader or email us so we can match you with your local group, activity team or support lead.

The most precious resource our volunteers have is time and the more we can give them back, the better off our most prized resource - young people - will be.

If you are an occasional helper you do need a DBS check. At the moment we can't complete the checks but we can invite you to join us and find out what you would like to help with. We just won't leave you with young people who are not your own until that has been completed.

If you are already an occasional helper you may have received recently, or will soon receive, an email from the Scout Association advising you that DBS checks are overdue and non-completion could lead to your membership being suspended.

Please disregard this message and any subsequent reminders. You will not be suspended at this time, even though your DBS has expired.

Unfortunately, it was not possible to reprogram the membership admin system to stop sending these emails but you are assured membership status is secure.

Training is not mandatory for occasional helpers but you might want to have a look at the basics here to get an idea of what Scouts is all about and the safety and safeguarding that we hold as a priority for our members.

You can read the policy that all adults agree to follow for putting the safety of our young people first in The Yellow Card .

During the current period where Scouting cannot happen face to face we have a few unexpected stars of the show - our parents and carers.

We know that it is difficult and some days, instead of not having enough to do you have too much to do with homeschooling, homeworking, caring for others and caring for yourself too. However you help your young person to keep in touch with their Scout friends and keep enjoying their adventures is fantastic.

We don't know yet when we might be able to return to face to face meetings and even when we can, it is likely that digital scouting will also continue for a time. Your support in the meantime is appreciated so much and we'd love your involvement to continue. You'll have seen over this week the different ways our volunteers help us keep your young people busy. You've all got skills to share and we've got just the people for you to share them with.

If you have seen an update about one of our volunteer roles that you think you could do, or you'd like to suggest a way you could help - please email us and let us know and keep an eye on the What can I do to help? area for the things we are particularly looking out for.

Our national scheme to introduce adults into Scouting is the Four Week Challenge . If, while your young person is online, you'd like to suggest an activity or have a go at leading an activity and help the young people join in with you, let your local leaders know. They would love to have input from their families and give them a quick break.

If you don't want to lead the whole group you can certainly lead in your own homes. The programme and activity ideas are all available on the Scouts website and the new Staged Indoor Activity badge is for Scouters and non-scouters so there's opportunity to involve all the young people in the household. Be sure to let your leaders know what you do so they can record it on their badge records.

Parents Guide to Beavers Parents Guide to Cubs Parents Guide to Scouts Parents Guide to Explorers

If your group uses Online Scout Manager (OSM) you might also be able to use the parent portal to update the records directly and see what your young person has already completed. Lincolnshire Scouts are offering the opportunity for all groups to use OSM and they can add the parent portal locally so ask your leaders whether it is available yet.

We know if you’ve got a child in your care with Additional Needs , doing something new can be scary – for both of you! There’s a lot of flexibility within the Scouts programme to meet individual needs and your local leader can arrange a chat with you to find out more about your child. This isn’t an interview or screening process, it’s simply to make sure we understand your child’s needs and how we can make adjustments to make sure your child will get the most out of Scouts. We appreciate things are constantly changing and you’re welcome to speak to your leader at any time.

Thank you for all you do to help young people become the best they can be in Scouts.

12th - 13th September 2020 > Residential Section Leader Training Weekend Course

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 12:25:12 GMT

This course will take place at Shacklewell Hollow Campsite, on the A606 Empingham Road, Stamford, We have added the programme so that if you want to attend individual modules then you can do so, the programme for this course is below:

Course Director is Debbi Rogers, DCC Young Leaders, her email address can be found under the link to the County Training Team Directory. This course will cost just £35 per person and covers accommodation, food, beverages and modules resources. There is indoor accommodation, but should you prefer to camp please indicate when booking.

If you would like to attend this course, please contact your Local Training Manager (LTM) or Wendy Smith, email address: training@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk as soon as possible. When she receives your completed booking form and your booking fee she will then provide you with a set of Joining Instructions, Course Programme, and Route/Map. When you receive these and your receipt you will have a place on the course. Should you need online banking, please ask.

This Section Leader training course is based on a first come, first served basis and places are highly sought after, so it is important that you get your completed application form and payment in to the course administrator, Wendy Smith (County Training Administrator) as soon as possible. Wendy’s postal address is: 29A High Street, Spalding, Lincolnshire PE11 1TX.

Date for 2020 Course: 12th -- 13th September 2020 (subject to review due to coronavirus).

Modules Covered: 7,12A,12B,14,15,17,19,

Programme

Saturday
9.00 Welcome and Introductions
9.30 Module 7: Scouting For All
12.00 Lunch
1.00 Modules 12A&B: Programme Planning &Delivering a Quality Programme
4.00 Coffee Break
4.30 Module17: Running Safe Activities
7.00 Evening Meal

Sunday
8.00 Breakfast
9.00 Module 14: Supporting Young People
10.30 Coffee Break
10.45 Module 15: Promoting Positive Behaviour
12.00 Lunch
1.00 Module 19: International
3.00 Course Evaluation
3.30 Tidy Up 7 Present Certificates
4.00 Home

The closing date for the Shacklewell Modular Course will be 29th August 2020.

If you need to do the Shacklewell Modular, the Sudbrooke Modular and a Nights Away Course, you can book all three together and get a 10% discount.

Volunteers Week - Thursday

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Thu, 04 Jun 2020 22:24:00 GMT

Our volunteer managers support other adult volunteers so they are motivated, get the most out of their contribution and are inspired to provide first class scouting opportunities for young people.

Whether it’s someone to talk to or thank them, or practical help with recruiting other volunteers, Scouting is about making life better, and this approach comes from the top.

It is a tricky but important and rewarding role.

Thank you for taking the lead, our volunteers need you and Scouting needs you.

The managers section of the UK Member Resources area gives you easy access to a wide range of resources to help you with the challenging aspects of your vital role, from carrying out reviews to dealing with disputes, and from developing your Group Executive to recruiting new volunteers.

As a manager, your role is to provide direction and to help people see the bigger picture by providing great leadership for the future.

During the current period where Scouting cannot happen face to face there are a number of additional considerations, risks and financial impacts to consider

The Coronavirus area on our website will help navigate through the key areas that have been affected. You’ll find a button to this area in the bottom right of the screen, wherever you are on our website at the moment but the first reference is always the government advice and Scouts UK direction.

In the Scouts member emails you will have seen a request to make sure members are up to date with Mandatory Training . Safety and Safeguarding of all our members remains our number one priority. Any of your team members who have overdue mandatory training on their compass record should complete this and submit their certificate for validation as soon as possible. You can read the request from Chief Commissioner Tim Kidd here and read more about the reasons why here .

One key change that will happen at the start of June is that you and your deputies will be able to validate a member's safety and safeguarding training on Compass . To validate a member, they’ll need to share their completed e-learning certificate with you, and you can then update their record for their safety or safeguarding mandatory ongoing learning. This will help support our great local training teams and the central pool of volunteers to get members’ records validated as quickly as possible helping to increase the rate of compliance. If you need guidance on how to update records, find support here .

Some of our members will be key workers who are unable to undertake their training right now because of their work demands. If this is the case they should identify this and HQ will not send reminders until after the Coronavirus crisis has passed.

Also, if you notice anyone in the list above who is no longer involved with Scouts, please can I ask that you remove them from Compass. This helps us to make sure they’re not affecting the overall compliance data.

It may be likely some of these members have multiple roles and report to different line managers, if so, then they will also appear in other managers lists.

You can provide reassurance to members that there will be an extension of six months to their First Aid Training . This extension starts from the date that face to face scouting resumes. While face-to-face Scouting is suspended, trainers will be keen to use the opportunity of volunteers being at home to undertake the theory elements of the training so as to make face-to-face courses shorter. This is absolutely fine, but all First Response validation will still need to take place face-to-face, as will the practical elements of the training (for example CPR).

If you are not receiving Member Emails and details of calls please check your contact details are up to date on Compass. If you are not able to log in to Compass please speak with your line manager who will help you access your record. Especially in this difficult time. The next member call will take place on 24th June.

At the moment DBS checks cannot be completed for Scouts.

It is still possible for your teams to recruit, just make sure that a non DBS adult is not left alone online with the young people

You maybe have received recently, or will soon receive, an email from the Scout Association advising you that DBS checks are overdue and non-completion could lead to your members being suspended.

Please disregard this message and any subsequent reminders. You will not be suspended, even though your DBS has expired.

Early in March the decision was made to stop DBS checking to relieve the pressure on the local Police service and Scout Association staff who are working from home. No members will be suspended in the current situation.

Unfortunately, it was not possible to reprogram the membership admin system to stop sending these emails but you are assured membership status is secure.

Once checks begin again, the tentative arrangements are that everyone with an out of date DBS will be invited to renew it when normal face to face Scouting activity resumes and you will have 90 days from that date to arrange a renewal before suspension is considered. It may be worth keeping a note of those you need to contact first.

Current volunteers whose disclosures expire can continue to meet digitally, following the advice and guidance issued on holding virtual meetings to make sure we keep everyone safe.

Recruitment is possible during the period where we can’t scout face to face. The staged indoor activity badge is for members and non-members for the first time in history and what better time to offer scouting opportunities to young people on waiting lists or those who have siblings at home.

Families and carers who are getting involved now are starting to see so much more of what Scouting can offer them as well as their young people so start having conversations about the bits they might enjoy continuing with in future.

Even when we can meet face to face it is likely that a large amount of digital scouting can and will continue. Finding those who might want to continue online rather than face to face may offer a whole new way of scouting opportunities.

Holding meetings is possible using a number of Digital Support tools. Facebook messenger is already used widely for small meetings. County email has added access to Workplace for similar features but on an internal social network. For section or activity group meetings Teams provided by Lincolnshire Scouts or Zoom Pro from HQ may be more suitable.

The Zoom Pro offer has just been released from HQ. There’s one license available per Group/District/County right up until 21 November 2020. Find out more and complete the access request form . Check out the guidance on using Zoom .

If you or your teams have any issues with digital tools or have suggestions on how we can offer greater support to members, please register and submit a request or suggestion on the servicedesk .

Looking out for your young people . Life right now feels very different to what we’re all used to. It’s amazing that despite this so many leaders are still running their programmes virtually, with 4 out of 5 Groups able to run regular online activities. If you’re not already doing so, please keep a record of attendance at each session to track who is joining you. This will help your Group to identify if there are any young people who have not been in touch since face-to face-Scouting stopped and if there’s other support we can give to those young people.

Safeguarding processes can still be carried out locally. The Safeguarding Team are aiming to keep their service 'business as usual' as far as possible. They recognise that there may be individuals who await outcomes to remove them from suspension and in these uncertain times delays may cause further anxiety. The Safeguarding team will work as hard as they can to resolve issues, but there may be delays.

Do you have questions about what your insurance covers when doing Scouts at home? Check out our latest guidance .

During our Scouting activities we find out a whole lot of useful information. Some of it is from the things that go really well and some is from the things that could have gone better. To gain all we need to know for ourselves would take a lifetime but collectively we can pool that experience and every day become a little better than we were before. The new Shared Experience area on the website will give you some neutral statements based on leader learning that can help you expect the unexpected and boost your risk assessments.

Why not join the Managers in Scouting Facebook group? The group is an online space to share ideas and best practice. It also functions as a mutual form of support for managers.

Thank you for all you do to help others become their best in Scouts.

Volunteers Week - Wednesday

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 03 Jun 2020 21:38:36 GMT

The mechanics of Scouting just wouldn’t run smoothly without you – our decision makers, direction setters and arrangers of Scouts locally.

We’re so grateful that all of you give your time to ensure that the groups, districts and county continues to meet its charitable purpose: safely and legally. When you do what you do, we know there will be enough money for the volunteers to deliver the programme and that equipment like tents and activity materials are available and safe to use.

Thank you for being such a dedicated bunch of volunteers in your Executive Committees and making sure that young people get the best possible experience in your area.

During the current period where Scouting cannot happen face to face there are a number of additional considerations, risks and financial impacts to consider

The Coronavirus Support on our website will help navigate through the key areas that have been affected. You’ll find a button to this area in the bottom right of the screen, wherever you are on our website at the moment but the first reference is always the government advice and Scouts UK direction.

All of our delivery whether it is a section based indoor activity or sledging the slopes of the Alps needs a Risk Assessment . Assessing risk in order to reduce or remove it is at the heart of safe Scouting and is present in everything we do. Risk assessment is something we all do every day in deciding to cross a road or get out of the car, so no one should be scared of doing a risk assessment within Scouting. If you want to help your delivery teams with risk assessment there is useful information here .

Trustees may have a big part in the accountability for ensuring that accurate Finance records are maintained but it is everyone’s responsibility . Whether it is maintaining records of monies received (e.g. for activities, camps, membership subscriptions, donations) and money spent (e.g. on bills, fees for activities, volunteer expenses, approving payments from a Scouting bank account or contributing to the creation and management of a budget.

You can find an easy Budget Planner here and information on bank accounts, funds and online banking here .

To carry out these tasks effectively you will need to ensure that you keep relevant receipts, invoices, bank statements and balance sheets as appropriate, to ensure that there is a clear audit trail to explain any financial records

Member calls and emails are not just for those who Scout directly with young people. Please make sure that your contact details are correct on Compass and if you can join or listen later on membership calls, There are some great signposts to information that is relevant to trustees, especially now.

You maybe have received recently, or will soon receive, an email from the Scout Association advising you that your DBS check is overdue and non-completion could lead to your membership being suspended.

Please disregard this message and any subsequent reminders. You will not be suspended, even though your DBS has expired.

Early in March the decision was made to stop DBS checking to relieve the pressure on the local Police service and Scout Association staff who are working from home. No members will be suspended in the current situation.

Unfortunately, it was not possible to reprogram the membership admin system to stop sending these emails but you are assured your membership status is secure.

A number of local Funding sources have been identified by HQ and central information on grants can be found here .

In the current situation, longer term planning and reviewing process can help identify any pinch points likely in group, district or county finances. If you think that you have some difficult areas to cover in the next twelve months please do discuss that with others. Groups can be supported by Districts and Districts assisted by County where possible and working on this together ensures everyone can access the support they need at the right time.

Gift Aid is one of the easy ways to maximise the donations and raise extra funds. You must be registered with HMRC to claim Gift Aid but asking your donors to tick the Gift Aid boxes on your sponsorship forms or your online giving page can raise an additional 25p in every £1. Find out more here .

During our Scouting activities we find out a whole lot of useful information. Some of it is from the things that go really well and some is from the things that could have gone better. To gain all we need to know for ourselves would take a lifetime but collectively we can pool that experience and every day become a little better than we were before. The new Shared Experience area on the website will give you some neutral statements based on leader learning that can help you expect the unexpected and boost your risk assessments.

Make a difference. Be a trustee. You may pick up new skills to enhance your CV or be able to share your existing skills with us. You are not expected to be an expert in every area, but using reasonable care and your experience the group, district or county will be all the richer for your input.

If you or someone you know have skills in management, administration, finance, human resources, legal knowledge, problem solving/teamwork or social skills or just have strengths facilitating a group, we'd love to welcome you as a trustee. Please contact the county office and we can link you to your local group or district.

Being an Executive Committee member carries legal responsibilities that should be understood before taking on the role but the difference you make to young people is a hugely rewarding and a challenging way to support Scouting.

Just ask one of our existing trustees. they are truly amazing and without them we couldn't empower so many young people to make a positive contribution to society.

Thank you for using your skills to make such a difference to others finding theirs.

Bourne Scouts enjoy a drumming workshop as lockdown forces them to meet online

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 03 Jun 2020 08:43:33 GMT

Scouts from Bourne featured in the Stamford Mercury.

Lockdown has forced people to come up with innovative new ways to spend their time with whatever resources they have at home.

Luckily for these children, all they needed was a saucepan and spoon to join an online drumming workshop with friends.

Beavers, cubs and scouts from across Bourne logged on to watch Max Anderson-Hopkins lead the Drumming's Cool session.

Read the full story - https://www.stamfordmercury.co.uk/news/technology-keeps-the-scouting-spirit-alive-9110251/

Volunteers Week - Tuesday

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 22:19:04 GMT

Thank you to all of you who give your time to lead Scouting activity for youth members

Our Leaders - section leaders, assistant leaders, section assistants and activity teams are at the heart of Scouting with young people. You know who you are … the ones who are there every week, every camp, every visit and every activity to make sure over 5,000 young people across Lincolnshire can Scout. Your commitment and dedication mean our youth members experience the excitement and adventure of the outdoors, experience the world and gain skills that will help them be their best throughout their lives.

Young Leaders too, on a mission to give a little extra zing to section meetings and test out their own leadership star qualities. You are a really important part of our leader teams and we’re grateful that you step up and take part.

Follow the links to find out more about being a young leader and the missions you can complete.

If you want to find out more about helping your young leader be the best they can be click here .

It's not always easy to see how Adventurous Activities can be experienced when we are not meeting outdoors or face to face but we've found a couple of ideas that might help you get your young people out into the middle of the action even sooner when the time comes.

International visits and trips have been difficult to continue in the current time. You can read here on the current status of events and trips, find out about future plans or find out more about how you can get involved or help your young people prepare for international trips.

At a first glance it is difficult to see how our usual Programme can continue when we’re all staying at home but in fact, a great number of the requirements for activities, challenges and top awards can be completed behind front doors.

Scouts UK have launched Scouts at Home , The Great Indoors and the staged indoor activity badge that can be earned by members and non-members perhaps helping you advertise for and take in a few extra online members.

Other Scout groups and counties are developing their online programmes - Basingstoke East and South London Scouts among them. Some offer uniform badges for their own county but for Lincolnshire members these are for camp blankets to record part of the scouting story.

Lincolnshire Scouts are beginning to populate an area in Workplace with ready made social media posts you can simply copy and paste onto Facebook groups to highlight areas of the programme you might want your sections to complete towards badges and Top Awards. More details to follow in your next update.

Each post will indicate the section badge that is being covered, text that can be sent directly to your youth members and comments to advise which badge requirements can be achieved by those who engage with that post. This is quite a new initiative but check back regularly to see what has been added and feel free to add some of your own if you have already had success suggesting badge activity over social media.

For instruction on how to sign up to workplace visit the Digital Support page on the website and feel free to add posts of your own with activities that you have enjoyed.

If you are having any problems using the new technical tools, need help getting started or have a question or suggestion, please register and submit your details on the servicedesk .

For those of you using OSM (Online Scout Manager) the OSM Badges at Home resources can help you communicate and share activities that can be enjoyed at home.

Did you know that subscriptions for Gold OSM are now being paid by Lincolnshire Scouts? If you haven’t yet moved onto the county agreement, please contact the county office for instruction on how to do this and, if you renewed after 1st August 2019, how you can claimback costs.

If you haven’t signed up for OSM yet, please contact the county office to find out how to do this, save time and change the way you complete your admin for the better, for good.

We’re also going to try some county webinars on programme topics to share resources and discuss ideas. We’ll be glad to know whether you find these useful. Look out for more details in your next update.

In the Scouts member emails you will have seen a request to make sure you are up to date with Mandatory Training . It is essential that you are up to date with your Mandatory Training, click here to review the request from UK Chief Commissioner Tim Kidd.

If you are not receiving member emails please check your contact details are up to date on Compass. If you are not able to log in to Compass please speak with your line manager who will help you access your record. The next All Member Call is on 24th June and will have useful updates on national Scouting.

You maybe have received recently, or may soon receive, an email from the Scout Association advising you that your DBS check is overdue and non-completion could lead to your membership being suspended.

Please disregard this message and any subsequent reminders.

Early in March the decision was made to stop DBS checking to relieve the pressure on the local Police service and Scout Association staff who are working from home. No members will be suspended in the current situation but checks will restart when face to face Scouting returns.

Unfortunately, it was not possible to reprogram the membership admin system to stop sending these emails but you are assured your membership status is secure.

Sometimes our leaders are also looking to brush up their Skills. We’re starting a new area on the website called 60 Second Skills . Short sharp videos and tips that will give an opportunity to dip in and out of different skill areas, pick up ideas and hone your own talents. So far you will find factsheets from HQ, resources from Scout Adventures and Lincolnshire videos on the first of our topics – Bushcraft. We’ll be adding topics over the coming weeks. If there is a particular hint, tip or hack that you think will be of interest to other members either send us your idea, a link to a video or your own short video (1 or 2 mins) and we’ll add it to the website.

During our Scouting activities we find out a whole lot of useful information. Some of it is from the things that go really well and some is from the things that could have gone better. To gain all we need to know for ourselves would take a lifetime but collectively we can pool that experience and every day become a little better than we were before. The new Shared Experience area on the website will give you some neutral statements based on leader learning that can help you expect the unexpected and boost your risk assessments.

We'll continue to update you when areas of the website are updated that may aid you in your leader role.

Thank you for all you do.

Volunteers Week - Monday

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 01 Jun 2020 22:35:43 GMT

Happy Volunteers Week, 1-7 June
This week, we’ll be saying thank you to all our volunteers and recognising the amazing things they do every day of the year. Each day this week we’ll highlight what our volunteers do and link to information we hope will help us all get through this period of not meeting face to face and beyond. Our volunteers do so much for others and we wanted to give a little back to them.

Today we reflect on how difficult it has been to adapt to Scouting at Home, what our volunteers are doing to help themselves and others and let you know that whatever and however you are Scouting, we are grateful.

A Sleaford Beaver, his brother, Dad and Leader Mum use the words of actual volunteers to reflect on Souting in the last few weeks.

Dear Lincolnshire Volunteers

This week is Volunteers Week and a great opportunity to thank you for being one of OUR volunteers. Thank you for all you do for Scouting, for your communities, for your families and for yourselves.

Every day you inspire and support over 5,000 young people across Lincolnshire to be the best they can be. As their role models and mentors, it is often difficult to feel connected when you can’t be together. Over these last few weeks, the depths of resilience and creativity that have been plumbed to overcome that is astonishing.

Keeping in touch has been championed whether that is having online meetings to make sure the business end of Scouting can continue or hosting a group call so the youth members can see each other and keep in touch with others in their colony, pack, troop, unit or network. So many of you are coming up with novel ways of enjoying scout activities at home and sharing ideas with each other so that those who do not have as much time can also offer fun and adventure to their members.

You and the parents and carers encouraging young people to take part in Scouting at home, are doing marvellous things. What better way for our youth members to see how resilience, adapting and positive thinking can lead to unexpected and enjoyable outcomes during difficult times. Thank you for being prepared to carry on, despite setbacks and new challenges.

I hope the information we release this week will help show what all our different volunteers do to make Lincolnshire Scouts great in section, groups, districts and across the county. Visit the website each day to see the updates we have been making to give as much support as we can to share good ideas, add tools that will save you time and provide you with information that will help you in your role.

I know that some of you may be facing some really difficult times right now either with your health or that of a loved one, some of you may be enduring losses or just finding it difficult to do anything other than get through a day at the moment. If you are needing to focus on other priorities or are finding all the digital delivery a little overwhelming, please don’t feel under pressure to be doing more than feels right for you. Better that we can all flex and be together when we find ourselves back in a situation that feels more comfortable.

In these circumstances, it‘s not easy but even if you feel you are not as much a part of Scouting as you were, know that you are not alone. We might all be apart as individuals but together we are Scouts.

Ellie
County Commissioner

Poacher 2021

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 29 May 2020 19:54:56 GMT

Poacher 2021 postponed untill 2022

Since Spring 2018, the Poacher team have been in the background planning for Poacher 2021 and ensuring every participant and staff has the ‘Adventure of a Lifetime’.

As we are all very much aware, Spring this year brought us a worldwide pandemic. Planning in an uncertain environment is a challenge and to ensure the safety of participants, volunteers and staff; the team have made the very hard decision to move Poacher 2021 to 2022.

The new dates are 30th July – 6th August 2022, remaining at the Lincolnshire Showground.
All those who have already booked or registered interest will shortly receive an email with more details about your booking.
Please read the full statement and FAQs here

Introducing The Great Indoors Staged Badge

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Thu, 28 May 2020 16:59:00 GMT

Over the last few weeks, kids have been learning new skills, trying new things, and having a lot of fun with hundreds of online activities. We’re very happy to be able to reward all of their hard work with a brand new staged badge. Here it is: https://bit.ly/3dfq58U

For the first time in history, this badge allows everyone to take part, regardless of whether they’re a Scout or not.

#TheGreatIndoors

DofE - Online Session

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 27 May 2020 23:10:38 GMT

DofE with A Difference - Online Support and Update Session for DofE During Current Restrictions

The DofE team are planning to run an update and support session on Tuesday 2nd June, 8pm to run though some of the things that adults and young people can be doing on DofE during the current restrictions..
We will cover some general updates as well as the information surrounding the DofE with a difference guidance issued by DofE.
Planning to join us? please e-mail dofe@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk for joining information.

Scouting from home for The Deepings Apache Cubs

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 09 May 2020 18:03:21 GMT

With current restrictions meaning Scouting activities across the county cannot take place, our members have been coming up with imaginative ways to continue Scouting from home.

The Deepings Apache Cub pack have been enjoying a wide range of activities, sharing ideas and instructions with each other online.

Here are just some of the activities they have been taking part in:

Personal and necker care as part of the Home Help Badge
Taking part in the WWF Earth Hour in lots of different ways, including a virtual camp
Working on the Artist Badge by creating artwork to show our support for the NHS and community
An online treasure hunt
Online bingo
Virtually learning together how to make a kite and flying them as part of their daily exercise

And it is not just the young people enjoying these activities, families and carers have been getting involved and are enjoying the entertainment.

Feedback has been really positive:

"Thanks for the much-needed treasure hunt yesterday. It lifted our spirits and has inspired a household Easter hunt in the next week."

"Oh, this was so good, thank you guys! I haven't seen Nicholas so animated for days!"

"We enjoyed the zoom meeting and looking forward to the family quiz this week! Fantastic way to stay in touch and still able to do some great activities and something a bit different! Thank you for all the great work you all do to help keep kids smiling!"

If you have noticed an activity here or anywhere else, take inspiration, make contact to share resources or perhaps tell us about what you’ve been doing so we can share with others.

Most importantly if there are areas of the programme that you are wondering how you are going to cover, do let me know and we will see how we can support you to gain resources. Email us at cc@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk

Old, new, borrowed and... YOU!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 09 May 2020 17:56:00 GMT

As the lockdown continues and we cannot enjoy Scouting in person, groups are working to adapt their programme to deliver it remotely. Much of #ScoutsAtHome is possible by adapting our exciting programme of activity and challenge.

Holbeach Explorers have been following up on activity they started before face-to-face Scouting was put on hold, taking photos for evidence towards the Creative Arts Badge, picking up the £6 food challenge as part of the Global Issues Badge (surviving on £6 of food for 3 days) and helping a vulnerable friend or relative through this period (if they can do so safely) towards the Community Impact Badge.

1st Moulton and Whaplode Scout group have been encouraging new life skills around the home – baking, hoovering, making different items, lego scenes and sending out messages of comfort to all.

Many of you are joining sessions from other Scout groups in the UK and international locations, or from beyond Scouting

Holbeach Explorers have tried links with The Great Indoors programme, JOTI, the Stay Connected Challenge as well as iDEA (Inspiring Digital Enterprise Awards), a free online training tool to develop skills to gain badges and industry-recognised awards.

1st Moulton and Whaplode Scout group joined Northumberland Scouts, amongst the 95,342 campers on their camp at home world record attempt. Some have been camping or den sleeping all of April.

Have you been creative with #ScoutsAtHome activities? We would love to hear from you.

If you have noticed an activity here or anywhere else, take inspiration, make contact to share resources or perhaps tell us about what you’ve been doing so we can share with others.

Check out our Facebook gallery full of Scouting at home ideas and inspiration .

Most importantly if there are areas of the programme that you are wondering how you are going to cover, do let us know and we will see how we can support you to gain resources. cc@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk

New paddleboards for Lincolnshire

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Thu, 07 May 2020 23:00:00 GMT

Lincolnshire Scouts is benefitting from a new fleet of stand-up paddleboards following a grant from Lincoln Round Table.

The paddleboards were delivered this week to our Water Activities Support Unit (WASU) who provide exciting water activities to Groups across the County. The paddleboards will offer our members the chance to enjoy a new water activity and we are grateful to Lincoln Round Table who researched and purchased this new activity for Lincolnshire Scouts.

Once Scouting activities resume, these new stand-up paddleboards will be available at future county events for all sections and ages to give paddleboarding a try. Something to look forward to!

Scouting sisters from Metheringham raise NHS funds with virus-inspired songs

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 25 Apr 2020 19:35:54 GMT

Three sisters from Lincolnshire have been writing and performing songs about the impact of the coronavirus outbreak to raise money for NHS charities.

The idea started when Scout Chloe (13) was sat practicing her guitar grade pieces and she thought it would be a good idea to write a song about the virus and the impact it is having on our lives. Her sisters Abbi (10) and Mia (7) wanted to join in and help to sing the songs too.

The sisters, who are all keen members of 1st Metheringham Scout Group, have spent recent days writing and re-writing the songs and practicing their performances. They have now created two virus-inspired songs: ‘Coronavirus is my enemy’ is an original piece, written by the girls; they have also recorded ‘It’s the coronavirus’ which is inspired by Ed Sheeran’s Galway Girl.

They are concerned about the impact of the virus and wanted to make a difference by bringing a smile to people’s faces and raising money. So far, the girls have raised £263 for NHS Charities Together.

Kate Bayliss, mum to the girls, said:

“When they came to me and said they wanted to write a song about the coronavirus I thought it was a brilliant idea, as Chloe plays the guitar and the girls enjoy singing - Abbi is in the school choir.

After a few days we started to hear short parts of the song being played from their bedroom which sounded really good. They put lots of time in practicing and worked really well together which was nice to see after spending so much time together during this difficult time.

I am immensely proud of the girls and of the lyrics they have put together in creating their songs. They chose to do something for the NHS after watching the daily press conferences and seeing them struggling for PPE. It really shows that although this whole situation has changed so many lives, it is also bringing people together.”

Lincolnshire Scouts County Commissioner, Ellie Compton, said:

“While we find novel ways to Scout from our homes, it would be easy to dwell on all the adventurous outdoor fun we are missing out on but the fact is, Scouts everywhere are adapting and innovating. Seeking different ways to connect, building new challenges and perfecting even more of their amazing skills because of our changed circumstances.

When I saw the video that Chloe, Abbi and Mia had made, it made me realise the extent that our Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and Network are immersing themselves in the environment around them and realising the different strengths they have to offer, doing their best to make a difference.

I’m humbled and proud to see how all the Scout volunteers in Lincolnshire are continuing to offer opportunity to the young people in their sections. Expressions like these give a tremendous feel of family, unity, kindness and sharing as well as being a super song and cause.”

You can donate to the girls’ fundraising efforts at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/phill-bayliss1

When a little means a lot

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 19 Apr 2020 19:41:10 GMT

Making change in your community makes people’s lives better, helps more people than you expect and taking action also develops us as individuals.

There is no doubt about it, these times are unsettling.

I am usually someone who reviews a situation, acknowledges how bad it might be then just works out what to do next but at the moment it sometimes feels impossible to know what to do for the best.

One thing I know is true… there is always something that can be done. No matter how bad the situation, there is always a way forward, there is always hope.

Have a think about Captain Tom Moore. Like many, I have been totally captivated by a man walking in his garden, constantly checking the justgiving page to check his sky rocketing total (£16.4 million at the time of writing but rising fast). He was an individual who just thought he’d do a little something that now means a lot more; not only to the NHS Charities that will benefit but now it means something to the whole nation. What his garden walks and his life experiences symbolise has brought people together, across the world as donations and messages of support are coming in from everywhere.

The number of donations that have made up that huge total mean that the average donation is £20. Not much when we’re considering millions but every one of those smaller efforts has made up an incredible whole. His actions are inspiring others too … take a look at 90 year old Margaret Payne climbing the equivalent of Suilven on her stairs and at the time of writing had raised £234,392 for the NHS on her fundraising page

After Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, I wanted to do something to make a difference. Advised by a friend who was working for one of the charities going to the area, the Cubs of 27th Lincoln wrote letters to be opened by children affected by the typhoon. I was sceptical. Such a small gesture couldn’t possibly have the impact I was hoping for. It did. In a much bigger way than we ever expected. Not only did we all receive letters back but we realised that we had made personal connections that lifted all of us far higher than we could ever imagine. I have kept in touch with many of the parents and we now send each other mutual messages of support as we face yet another difficulty, but this time together.

Explorer Charlie in Horncastle also knows the benefit a letter can make and has recently been recognised by Lincolnshire County Council for the letters he is writing to veterans and serving personnel via the Lincoln Bomber Command Centre. Bravo, Charlie.

There is always something to be done. When the Scout Easter Fair was cancelled in Wittering, Scout Ellie was sad to know that the usual appearance of the Easter Bunny would not take place. So she put on a bunny costume and went out to wave to children in her area that might otherwise not had a visit while on lockdown. Bravo, Ellie.

Have a think about the situation you are in and others around you. Making change in your community makes people’s lives better, helps more people than you expect and taking action also develops us as individuals. What could make a difference? It could be action on an issue over a number of months or simply a call to a family member you have not seen for a while, a letter to the local fire/police/ambulance station/hospital to thank them for their service, a rainbow in the window for all the key workers, just doing a little job for the person caring for you so they have one less thing to do today, a hug to someone you can still be close to, a smile and a hello for a stranger you pass on the street …..

One thing I can guarantee, every little thing you choose to do for others will mean a whole lot more to them.

Take care, be kind.

My Doorstep Promise, St Georges Day

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 18 Apr 2020 19:43:06 GMT

I know that when I renew my promise, I will not be alone. Wherever and however you renew your promise this year, you will be doing so knowing that we will all be making it together.

Hello Lincolnshire Scouts

In the four weeks since face to face Scouting has been ceased, I have been totally inspired by the creativity, resilience and determination you have all shown to look after yourselves and each other, stay connected with our youth members, continued to offer activities and challenges, managed your sections and groups through uncertain times, making sure that your volunteers feel supported and valued, your premises are secure, finances and risks are reviewed. For all your efforts, I and those around you are so grateful. I, like you, believe in the way that Scouting improves the lives and life chances of young people as well as improving our own lives as we explore our own beliefs and attitudes with them. Maintaining the values of Scouting as individuals and as Scouters in any circumstances is the backbone of our movement.

There is no sure forecast of when our restrictions will change and amongst all of our other events and plans our St Georges Celebrations have taken an unexpected turn.

This year, more than ever our integrity as Scouts is called to the fore. When we first made our promises it was in a context of calm and familiarity within our groups and colleagues but now in uncertain times, as we say the words of our promise we must say what we mean and in making that promise again, mean what we say and keep it.

I know that when I renew my promise, I will not be alone. Wherever and however you renew your promise this year, you will be doing so knowing that we will be making it together.

Scouting is always about teamwork. When we work together, we go on to achieve more than we can on our own. We are placing safety of others before ourselves, we are supporting all of those who have to remain away from their homes by staying in ours.

As I’m sure all of you have, I have thanked and applauded the key workers in all sorts of jobs that are keeping us all equipped with what we need to stay home and especially staff within the NHS who are tirelessly helping and caring for those of us who need them the most.

This year I will renew my promise on my doorstep, after my clap for carers. As the sun sets at 20:11 on St George’s Day. Inspired by those I applaud, I will aspire to fulfil the words of my promise in the same way our amazing key workers, carers and NHS teams are doing their best to do their duty, to help other people and keep the oaths they made in their professions.

On my honour,
I promise that I will do my best
to do my duty to God and to The Queen,
to help other people
and to keep the Scout Law.

Stay Safe
Ellie

Easter Camp at Home

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 14 Apr 2020 19:46:56 GMT

I hope you all managed to get a visit from a hoppy companion last weekend and a moment to reflect on the signs of spring around us, the buds of new beginnings, rebirth of hope and opportunity amidst the complexity of the world around us right now.

In terms of Scouting; Well, we may well have planned to be camping in some shared spaces on this glorious spring weekend but even with the separation imposed on us so many of you have found brilliant ways to be together. See how many of our campers you recognise in the Easter Camp Gallery .

At our house we enjoyed the spring sunshine and our connection to our own little bit of nature as well as joining many others in the #campathome Facebook event https://www.facebook.com/events/539494096964579/ . We’ve enjoyed cooking and eating our tea outdoors, joining 1st Gainsborough for a campfire via Zoom and slept in our indoor tents (garden pitch unavailable) and cooked up pancakes for breakfast.

We’re not the only ones either, around the County there have been many of you indoors, outdoors, in tents, dens and forts, even just out under the stars …

1st Gainsborough encouraged Cubs and Beavers to camp out in their gardens or have a 'sleepover' at home (bringing the tent inside/building a blanket fort to sleep in or whatever else they can come up with, as long as they didn't sleep where they usually do.
1st Woodhall Spa remastered their planned Easter Camp to offer online challenges to include making bird feeders, camp gadgets, alphabet scavenger hunt, easter egg hunt and sharing camp set up and holding tent inspection via Facebook photos.
1st Willingham linked their group and shared their camp activities and locations via Facebook as well as doing a live scout quiz .
In Wittering, Cub Jake and Scout Ellie practised putting up the big family tent and enjoyed an indoor camp.
The Boston Commissioners’ garden site soon filled up and other district gardens were well attended as part of the DC Challenge to spend a night in a tent.
The Hartley family had a BBQ, played in the paddling pool, stuffed bananas with chocolate to cook in the embers, enjoyed stargazing before a good nights sleep and a hearty breakfast with some very promising helpers.
Across Lincoln, table hammocks proved popular for our youngest Scouters and Scouters in Training especially in the Otter and Gilbert households. Kev Wrenn also showed a superb hammock set up in his camp area this weekend to inspire the older sections.
It didn’t even matter if you couldn’t find a tent or fit it into your space, Helen and Sam enjoyed making their furry fort from cushions and blankets and had a cosy camp at home too.
In Holbeach, camping was just the start of the spring adventure. Connor, Kiah and Kacey have been very busy starting with a garden camp tea of hotdogs and pasta followed by popcorn and outdoor cinema, marshmallows on the bonfire, stargazing and watching the blood moon. During the days they have been on bike rides and a nature walk recording all the wildlife and insects they could find, made leaf prints and a butterfly house as well as watching a wildlife documentary learning about different animals in the wild.

I know there are more of you than I’ve been able to mention, hopefully I can share your adventures next time. If you can’t wait to camp again or want to be part of a world record attempt at the end of the month, you could join this event on 30th April in conjunction with Northumberland Scouts. (check locally for Nights Away award agreements).

https://www.facebook.com/events/497678237569344/

If you are looking for a badge for blankets during this time both the #campathome Facebook events have merchandise being created and one stop scouting have a badge and range that may help you out. https://www.onestopscouting.co.uk/camp-home/camp-home-april-badge

I’d love to hear what else you’ve all been trying out while we’re not scouting face to face so please do let me know at cc@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk and I will share on the county website.

I hope you enjoyed the Easter weekend and for all your Scouting, whatever you are doing, wherever you are … Bravo!

See how many of our campers you recognise in the Easter Camp Gallery

Walking with a purpose

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 05 Apr 2020 19:50:26 GMT

There are some great activities and alternative meetings going on while we’re not able to meet in person. I can’t believe how creative, talented and skilled you all are.

I hope you are enjoying some ideas and activities from #TheGreatIndoors but also getting outside for your exercise option too.

How are you making your time outdoors count? Walking with a purpose can really help us take in more of the detail in the world around us.

Have a look at the photos taken by young people as part of the D.C. challenge in Boston District on their recent walks. Bravo!

If you want to let us know how you’re putting the ‘in’ or ‘out’ in Scouting at the moment, I’d love to hear from you cc@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk

Thanks
Ellie

Volunteers recognised in 2020 Roll of Honours

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 03 Apr 2020 19:51:56 GMT

We are proud of the impact that Scouting makes on the lives of so many young people and volunteers.

The Roll of Honour is an opportunity to recognise and reward some of those volunteers making an impact.

The 2020 Roll of Honour has been published by The Scout Association and we want to say a special thank you and well done to those recognised from our county.

Lincolnshire in the Alps!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 22:20:57 GMT

Our Kandersteg contingent have travelled nearly 1000 miles by train to reach the International Scout Centre in Kandersteg, Switzerland.

Meeting for the first time over eighteen months ago the contingent have worked to plan and prepare for their venture with a series of training camps and activities in the UK. The result of this is a Youth Shaped week long programme of adventure planned including Mountain Biking, Hiking, Canyoning, Climbing and the Oecinensee Rodelbahn.

Charnwood 2019 - A report by Flynn from 5th Boston Scouts

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 11 Aug 2019 22:22:20 GMT

Flynn from 5th Boston Scouts writes about his experience of Charnwood International Jamboree 2019.

"It was easy to start packing for Charnwood camp out, sun cream, sun hat, shorts and plenty of T-shirts for the sunshine that we were going to have at camp.

The activities that were planned were going to be amazing in the summer weather and I couldn’t wait. Saturday morning came and I woke up at home to see it raining outside, my Dad handed me my Wellies and I put them on as I walked out the door, I was wondering if it was going to be like this all time?

We met Sue, Tic Tac and Jag at the car park and we loaded up and waved off my Parents and Sister, it was still raining!!!!! I was with Amber in one car and Finley and Blake in another, we was on our road trip to camp. Oh it was still raining when we got there can I say.

Arriving at Charnwood camp was so exciting, our first thing to do was set the mess tent up, I was glad now I bought my Wellies and coat, I hadn’t put my sun cream on yet either. The tents were already set up so Finley and I got our bedroom ready for the week to come.

The evening was off to the opening Ceremony to open Charnwood 2019. I was the only one with Wellies and I could barely walk in the mud, Finley had some brand new trainers which had gone a shade of brown, but they were Orange!!!

As our Sound Camp walked in we was greeted to us on a massive video screen. I was shocked at the actual size of the tent, thinking this was huge!!!! We then sat down on the wet grass, but we didn’t mind, as we were so excited. The Belgian Scouts next door to us started screaming as the video screen showed them all. It was an awesome sight.

First night hot chocolate and marshmallows before bed were welcoming and I wrapped up in my sleeping bag, it was the cosiest sleep I had ever had.

DAY 2 :Woke up to mud in the porch way, mud had got in everywhere, in the tents the mess tent, everywhere!!! Today was very much find out what was going on, in the main Core as it was called there was lots to do such as, football, grab the card, conger, a tuck shop to buy sweets from and singing onstage, just like a real Festival.

Finley and I tried for ages to open a packet of Sherbet, it took ages!!! We then attempted to join the conger it was so long we couldnt get to the back!!!!

We had chosen our main activity before we came on camp, mine was Mechanical, and so off we went on the bus to the Famous Foxton Locks, an old working lock gate. Lunch was followed by the boat ride, The Vagabond II was our boat, and we sailed down the canal, the operator talked to us about Lily pads, which were very interesting. We sailed back and went back to the dock. A spot of pond dipping found a water boatman and a leech. A trip then to the Wistow maze, which was in the form of an astronaut. It took us two hours to finish it!!!

Wednesday night and Tic Tac told us that Charnwood was being evacuated, not a surprise as it was so muddy. It was decided we would go with 4th Kirton Scouts in their Mini Bus to get home, our kit was coming home on Saturday.

Thursday Morning and we said our goodbye to camp, and Charnwood 2019, I wish I had stayed the whole time, but it was impossible. The experience was significant because we enjoyed many fun activities I would of liked to of gone on the escape pods but they were not set up. I would like to thank Tic Tac Jag and Sue for looking after us, and 4th Kirton for bring us home.

CHARNWOOD 2023 IM COMING TO GET YOU!"

2nd Louth and Manby Scouts take on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks, June 2019

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 22:29:43 GMT

When Adrian suggested we do this again for this summer’s scout hike challenge, my first reaction was really? After everything the weather threw at us last time?? We started in sunshine, after a rotten nights sleep on the worlds most overcrowded and noisy campsite, which clouded over to become rain on Pen y Ghent ( 694m ), hail, sleet and snow plus gale force winds on Wernside (736m) and Ingleborough (723m). Summer it was not!!!!

The group is raising money for the new scout hut to be built in Louth, and as we raised a lot towards the Japan World Scout Jamboree last time it seemed like a good idea to repeat the process.

After several months of planning, ( including choosing a different campsite! ), and practice hikes, the weekend of our attempt finally arrived. And the forecast looked good!!

Everyone was up and ready to set out at 6.30am, with the first group heading out on time. Groups 2 and 3 were all away by 7.15am. The weather was already warm at this point.

Group 1 made the summit of Pen y Ghent at 8.30am, to be followed half an hour later by group 2. Group 3, our youngest and least experienced scouts also made it to the top but were delayed by the number of people attempting the 3 Peaks - Marie Curie Nurses Charity had 200 walkers out that day, and Alzheimer’s Dementia walk had a staggering 350 !! Our scouts had to queue to reach the summit!! Groups 1 and 2 continued on the route, in rising temperatures, while our younger members descended from the summit back to the camp site for a well earned rest and cool drinks.

By the time the groups reached the Horton in Ribblesdale viaduct, a further 10km into the route, the temperature had reached 30 degrees. And there’s no shade either! After a drinks and food stop, all water bottles refilled and the leaders weighed down by carrying extra water, those that wanted to carried on, summitting Wernside in the late afternoon.

By the time the groups had reached the ice cream van at the foot of the hill on the other side, we had to make a decision. It was getting late in the day, the sunshine and heat were taking a toll, and thunderstorms were moving nearer according to the weather app. At this point, our amazing scouts had covered 30 km and been out for 10 hours.

As a group, we made the decision to stop, and get an air conditioned lift back in the car to the campsite. Although all were disappointed, it was the right thing to do. After a fantastic BBQ cooked by our support team, there was just enough energy left for a game of football before the need to sleep took over!

Hugh thanks to Adrian Beech, Nicky Turner, Alan Dale and Richard Limmer for keeping the groups safe on the hill, Abby Kingswood , Hazel Brown and our wonderful cook Chris Carden for being the best support team ever! But the biggest thanks must go to the 17 amazing scouts, who were a credit to themselves and their leaders and should be super proud of their achievements.

The mountains will be there next year and so will we, to give it another go. I wonder what the weather has in store for us this time?

Jan Waite
ACC Activities
County Mountain Activity Advisor.

When Scouts go to the Game!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 22:26:35 GMT

Last night our Lincolnshire World Scout Jamborree contingent joined over 4000 UK Scouts at the Orioles game.

The combined UK Contingent hit the headlines for befriending the Orioles' left-filder Anthony Santander after he threw them some baseballs.

The contingent clearly enjoyed experiencing American Sport!

Young People Recognise & Celebrate Leaders Commitment over 18 Month Journey!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 28 Jul 2019 22:33:31 GMT

An 18 month journey developing a contingent of over 50 young people. Building the skils and teamwork needed to get the most from the World Scout Jamboree takes a team of amazing leaders.

But away from the front line the leaders also have training to complete. Moving away from the norm we made arrangements for their training awards to be presented in America with the young people they have supported.

Well Done Michelle , Laura, Richard, Harriet, Ian & Kieron. Taking over 50 young people accross the globe is no mean feat!

Lincolnshire Scouts go International!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 27 Jul 2019 22:35:20 GMT

This summer sees over 100 young people from accross Lincolnshire go international!

Over 50 are currently attending the World Scout Jamboree in West Virginia after a short stop-off in New York. Their next stop is Canada.

First challenge - To find their bags!

The hottest day of the year on record saw our Inter-Rail contingent battle train delays in the UK to begin their european rail adventure.

A number of young people are also attending other locak and national international trips. Including Paris and Madagascar.

Later in the month we also have a contingent heading the the International Scout Centre in Kandersteg, Switzerland.

We can't forget the leaders and volunteers supporting these groups (both from the UK and in country), they do an amazing job alongsire our International Team to make all this happen.

200 Beavers on Boats!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 21 Jul 2019 22:37:39 GMT

This weekend over 200 Beaver Scouts from across Lincolnshire desended on Girton Sailing Club to have water based fun!

Taking part in Sailing, Bell Boating and a water related craft the Beaver's didn't let the weather on Saturday dampen spirits. From 'Heads, Shoulds Knees and Jump' to 'Save the Ducks (rubber). The fun activities devised by our amazing volunteer team where designed to build confidence as for many it was the first time on the water.

The event would not have been possible without the army of volunteers giving up their time - Thank You!

Lincolnshire Aviators leading the way for Youth Shaped Scouting!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 30 Jun 2019 22:38:37 GMT

Congratulations to the 'Lincolnshire Aviators' (one of the units attending the World Scout Jamboree) for being awarded their Youth Shaped Challenge Award! Scouting should be shaped by young people in partnership with adults at all levels and it is excellent to see this being reflected through our international contingents.

Less than a month to go until they travel to America for a three week trip of a lifetime!

A Day of Celebration and Achievement

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 24 May 2019 22:40:35 GMT

Congratulations to all our Lincolnshire Scouts who took part in the Day of Celebration and Achievement yesterday at Windsor Castle as Queen’s Scout Award recipients, a Section Leader and part of the event support/organising team.

Also a massive congratulations to all the Queen’s Scouts who have achieved their award but were not able to attend this year!

The Queen’s Scout Award is the culmination of everything that Explorer Scouts and Scout Network members have achieved in Scouting and is the highest award available to Youth Members.

DofE Gold Award Presentations - Buckingham Palace

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 24 May 2019 22:39:41 GMT

Congratulations to all the Young People receiving their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Buckingham Palace today from HRH The Duke of Gloucester and presented by Yasmin Evans (BBC Radio 1Xtra)
Are you looking to complete your Duke if Edinburgh’s, Chief Scout’s or Queen’s Scout Awards? Need some help or support? Contact youthawards@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk .

Discovery & Adventure for County Beaver Scouts

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 08 May 2019 22:41:32 GMT

On Saturday 6th April almost 300 Beaver Scouts and their leaders descended on Conkers Discovery Centre in Derbyshire for the first Lincolnshire Beaver’s County Sleepover. The Beavers spent the day exploring the National Forest on a variety of trails, walking through the tree tops and orienteering across the site. They explored the different play areas dotted around the site and rode the train to the adventure play area. They also built dens, went pond dipping, followed the sensory trail and barefoot trails and explored the warrens. Beaver Scouts also got the opportunity to find out about the different creatures that live in the British woodland as well as meeting Conkers resident owls, ducks, geese and pheasants.

At the end of the day the Beavers all got to explore the indoor play area before enjoying a cooked dinner and setting up their beds in the discovery centre. They then settled down to watch a film before going to sleep. In the morning Beavers and Leaders enjoyed breakfast before departing.

All Beavers really enjoyed themselves and were able to complete a range of badge requirements including Nights Away, Explore activity badge and Hikes Away (there was a lot of walking!) as well as ticking of parts of their My Adventure, My Skills, My Outdoor and Teamwork challenge badges.

Outstanding contribution recognised at annual awards

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 22:42:45 GMT

Volunteers recognised for outstanding work with awards ceremony and dinner at Burghley House on Monday 15th April.

Award winners and their guests enjoyed a tour of the grand house before dinner and then settled down to an evening recognising their efforts with a range of awards.

Thank you so much to our award winners for their ongoing service and their exceptional contributions to Scouting in Lincolnshire. The more opportunities to get involved in Scouting that we can offer young people in the county, the more exciting life experiences they can enjoy - making a real difference to the next generation and beyond.

It is an honour to be able to recognise our award winners for their outstanding contributions and of course a big thank you also to all volunteers across the region who give their time and efforts to Scouting.

See more photos from the event here .

Uniform Update: Wearable Technology (April Fools 2019)

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 23:00:00 GMT

As you will have seen in the last membership e-mail a review of our uniform is currently underway (the last review being 18 years ago). This is expected to be a long and considered process – and no decision has been made to change at this stage, and there are no immediate changes to uniform.

We are excited to be part of developing options for wearable technology being incorporated into uniform. We are looking for ten groups/sections in Lincolnshire to sign up if they are interested in taking part in live-trials (this will be on a first come first served basis). If your group/section is interested, please contact programme@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk with your preferred trial option (where possible we will try and facilitate your preferred option but it may not be possible in all cases).

What’s in it for sections/groups?

Each group/section will be provided with a full set of trial uniform for each member across the next 12 months and play a key role in supporting the development of our next generation uniform.
Where smart technology is required to support the trials, this will also be provided for the trial duration.

Option 1 – Digital Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief

Many members both young and old like to collect all the different styles of Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief and we want to bring this in-line with the latest technology trend and are looking to launch a digital version. This will feature an advanced material and LED technology allowing the wearer to collect a style via the ‘MyNecker’ app and upload to their Necker/Scarf/Neckerchief.

Option 2 – Built-in Smart Device Charging
With a greater reliance on smart devices we want to ensure they are available to use 24/7. Charge will be generated by solar panels on garments and movement via an in-shoe generator.
We successfully trialled a prototype during the recent Lincoln Monopoly Run by one of the Adult teams. This allowed their smart phone to stay charged all day.

Option 3 – Waterproof Coating

As we know, sections are not allowed outside when it rains. To overcome this barrier to Scouting we are looking at a special coating for all uniform items to repel water, meaning we can once again put the out into Scout!

Option 4 – Colour Changing Shirts
Technology allows materials to change colours based on temperature. Something that is easy to overlook on Scouting activities are the effects of heat (both hot and cold). Currently being developed are shirts that turn red when the body temperature is too high and blue when too cold to aid early identification of heat related issues.
There are currently a few teething problems with an advance feature. It is hoped that the shirts will also change to vibrant pink indicating ‘needs feeding’. The teething problems have resulted in Explorer Scouts shirts constantly becoming vibrant pink!

Option 5 – Self Cleaning and Ironing
This is one for the parents and carers (volunteers may also benefit). Through our programme we are looking to develop #SkillsForLife so it will become compulsory for all members (in all sections) to learn to wash and iron before becoming a full member (don’t worry, full support using an iron and washing machine will be given and there will be no maximum timescale on completing this!). It is hoped that this option will be adopted to make the entire Scout Uniform self-cleaning and ironing for parents/carers).

High Flyers – Lincolnshire Scouts celebrate awards success at RAF Scampton with the Red Arrows!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 06 Nov 2018 23:48:39 GMT

Over the last year, Scouts across Lincolnshire who have achieved one of the Scouts top awards in 2017/18 were recognised at a special event at the Heritage Centre at RAF Scampton. Michelle Nelson who supports The Scouts top awards across Lincolnshire said

“Young people achieve these awards by showing determination, commitment and personal development over a period of time. We are delighted to recognise so many of our young people’s achievements over the year. The Chief Scout’s awards are a culmination of everything that young people do in Scouting. To achieve these awards, young people develop and challenge themselves in many new ways. Spending time in new places, meeting new people and developing communication, organisational and teamwork skills.”

As well as the Chief Scout’s awards, Duke of Edinburgh and Queens Scouts awards were also presented. Those who achieve a DofE Award will volunteer, learn a skill, get fit, plan and undertake an expedition and take part in a week long residential (gold only). Widely acknowledged as the world’s leading achievement award for young people, DofE programmes enable any young person, aged 14-24, to develop key skills for life and work, such as confidence, commitment and team working.

Also recognised were Explorer Scout Young Leaders (aged 14-18) who volunteer alongside adult volunteers in a Beaver Colony, Cub Pack or Scout Troop. They are a valuable asset to any leadership team, Explorer Scout Young Leaders play an active role in the section, bringing a range of fresh ideas to the table, and acting as positive role models for the young people they work alongside.’

The Explorer Belt is a challenge of a lifetime. It is a chance to take part in a ten-day expedition that brings you a real understanding of a different country, its culture and way of life. You will develop this understanding by travelling through your chosen country, working as part of a small team to complete a series of projects and most importantly by meeting local people. It is an experience and an achievement that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Thanks are due to RAF Scampton who provided a fantastic backdrop to celebrate these prestigious awards. RAF Scampton, Station Commander – Wing Commander Parker and Flight Lieutenant Simmonds (Red 3) of the Red Arrows joined Ellie Compton – Lincolnshire Scouts County Commissioner to present the awards. Their inspiring speeches also showed how the skills developed through the scout award schemes link to real life employment opportunities.

Will Baldock (27) from Lincolnshire Scouts said “this is the first youth awards event of this type for many years. As Scouts, we believe in preparing young people with skills for life. We encourage our young people to do more, learn more and be more. The determination, commitment and effort shown by all the young people here today as well as those unable to attend is testament to the inspiring programme being delivered across the county by our amazing volunteer leaders”.

Fantastic Explorer Scout Weekend at eSpalsh!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 16 Sep 2018 22:49:40 GMT

50 people took part in eSplash at North Hykeham over the weekend of 14-16 Septmber. Explorer scouts aged 14-18 from all over the county were able to try sailing, open canoeing and bell boating in wonderful conditions at Apex Lakes. Organised by ACC Activities, Rachel Nelson, the event introduced adventurous activities and was enjoyed by all.

Rachel was also awarded her Wood badge by County Commissioner Robin Wright over the weekend. The Wood Badge is a Scouting program and Award for adults in the Scout associations around the world. The Wood Badge course is designed so that adult Scouters can learn; in as practical a way possible, the skills and methods of Scouting. On completion, participants are still awarded the beads to recognise the significant achievement in leadership and direct service to young people, and to welcome them to membership of 1st Gilwell Park Scout Group.

Weekend of fun gets under way at Lincoln District Scout Camp

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 26 May 2018 23:00:00 GMT

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts from groups across Lincoln are enjoying an exciting weekend of activities to celebrate 60 years of Sudbrooke campsite.

The weather couldn’t be better for the 500 Scouts and 200 volunteers at the camp, and with 80 activities for the Scouts to enjoy, the weekend is a fitting way to mark the 60th anniversary of the campsite.

Activities are based on a Crystal Maze theme and involved Scouts collecting ‘diamonds’ for effective teamwork. With problem solving, physical, and mental challenges, Scouts are putting their hands to crate stacking, climbing, obstacle courses, riddles, puzzles and games.

A huge thank you to all volunteers who have contributed their time so far to help plan and run the event.

Find out more about Scouting in and around Lincoln .

Cubs on the Water

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 21 May 2018 23:00:00 GMT

Over 200 Cubs attended over the 2-days on the weekend of 12 - 13th May 2018 at Girton Sailing Club. Each Cub participated in 5 activities over the day: Canoe & Kayak, Sailing, Rowing, Bellboating and a craft activity of making a model boat.

The cubs had a brilliant day which was run very smoothly by a amazing group of volunteers, helping young people gain skills to succeed. These volunteers gave the cubs the confidence to get wet and at the end of the day asking when they can go again.

Adventure at Skegness Aquarium!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 22:54:24 GMT

Beavers encounter with the Sharks
Back in November 2017 a group of Beavers from Skegness and Spilsby District trialed a new adventurous offering by Skegness Aquarium – Snorkelling in the Lost Lagoon!
The experience allows 6-11 year olds to search for hidden treasure whilst interacting with the baby sharks without barriers. Experience the aquarium from a new perspective by getting get up close with marine life. Groups can now book this adventurous experience direct with the Aquarium Reception.

Night at the Aquarium
7th Lincoln Beavers spent a night at the Aquarium back in February, following a guided tour of the Aquarium, cooked tea, film and supper they settled down in front of the main tank sleeping meters from Nudge the Zebra shark! The all-inclusive experience is available for groups of 20 or more at £25 per person.
This experience is highly recommended by Claire from our County Programme team who was lucky enough to be part of this sleepover with a difference.

Contact Skegness Aquarium Reception for more information or to book your experience.
E-Mail: reception@skegness-aquarium.uk
Telephone: 01754 228200
Website: https://www.skegness-aquarium.uk/
Address: Skegness Aquarium, Tower Esplanade, Skegness, Lincolnshire PE25 3HH

Excellence Celebrated at Awards Evening

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 23:00:00 GMT

Volunteers recognised for outstanding work with awards ceremony and dinner at Burghley House on Tuesday 10th April.

Award winners and their guests enjoyed a tour of the grand house before dinner and then settled down to an evening recognising their efforts with a range of awards.

Awards were presented by Regional Commissioner Paula Evans, County Commissioner Robin Wright and Burghley House Director Miranda Rock; and included the Silver Acorn and Bar to the Silver Acorn.

Robin Wright said:
"Thank you so much to our award winners for their ongoing service and their exceptional contributions to Scouting in Lincolnshire. The more opportunities to get involved in Scouting that we can offer young people in the county, the more exciting life experiences they can enjoy - making a real difference to the next generation and beyond. It is an honour to be able to recognise our award winners for their outstanding contributions and of course a big thank you also to all volunteers across the region who give their time and efforts to Scouting."

Lincolnshire Scouts County Conference 2018

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Volunteers from across the County gather for a day of inspiring talks at 'Inspire the Future Conference 2018'.

The event, held on Sunday 4th March at Lincoln Minster School, welcomed over 100 volunteers from all areas of Lincolnshire to share ideas, enjoy informative talks on a range of topics and browse the popular 'marketplace' with a variety of stalls.

Key speakers included Chief Commissioner for England Alex Peace-Gadbsy and Alan Hands from One Million Hands.

There were also talks on useful topics such as safeguarding, social media, community engagement, adult recruitment and programmes.

All attendees also had a chance to join discussions to share their ideas and enjoy a tasty lunch and refreshments from the catering team at the school, they also received a goodie bag.

Thank you to all volunteers who attended, an inspiring day for all.

Explorers dive with sharks at Skegness Aquarium!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 17 Dec 2017 00:00:40 GMT

On Saturday 25th November 12 Explorer Scouts from across Lincolnshire descended on Skegness Aquarium to take the plunge with the sharks! With a few nerves showing during the briefing they were soon put to rest as thanks to the aquarium instructors. Practicing the skills needed in the training tank they were ready to hit the main tank diving with the sharks. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed and it was all smiles as they emerged after interacting and feeding some of the sea life.

Skegness and Spilsby take part in JOTI - the largest Scouting event in the world with over 1 million Scouts

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 23:01:46 GMT

Skegness and Spilsby District added an additional element of fun to jamboree on the internet (Joti) by inviting the local internet based radio station to their event. County linx radio set up their outside broadcasting bus and allowed the young people to take over the radio station for a hour broadcasting live to their listeners around the world. During the event the O2 gurus were on hand chatting about internet safety and answering technical questions in the cafe. The cafe had been set up to raise funds as a thank you to the New life community centre who had supported the day by providing the use of their facilities. The young people made had an amazing time contacting some 33 different countries around the world via the Joti chat rooms, including a brief chat with Craig Turpie, the chair of World Scouting.

JOTA-JOTI is the largest Scouting event in the world with over 1 million Scouts participating across 150+ countries. The purpose of JOTA-JOTI is to enable and encourage Scouts around the world to communicate with one another by means of amateur radio and the internet, providing a fun and educational Scouting experience and promoting their sense of belonging to a worldwide Scout Movement. JOTA-JOTI related activities take place simultaneously all around the world each year during the third weekend in October. The programme for JOTA-JOTI consists both of activities developed at world level and initiatives developed at national and local level, supported by National JOTA-JOTI Coordinators and their respective teams.

Rabbit Run 2017

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 17 Oct 2017 11:33:10 GMT

The Rabbit Run trophy has left the county for the first time! 142 people took part in this years Rabbit Run. The event, held this year at Collingham Scout HQ, saw 20 teams compete for the trophy and the toilet seat while 5 teams of chasers roamed the country side trying to find them.

Rabbit Run is a night hike with a difference for everybody aged 13+. Each team is given a map and list of questions which they can answer by visiting the grid references on the question sheet, the further away from the start point the question is, the more points it's worth. They have one hour to plan a route to collect as many points as possible, and then five and a half hours to complete the route with bonus points available for getting back on time. If a team is caught by the chasers they lose two points. This year the trophy was won by an exceptional effort from Griffin ESU from Derbyshire, and the toilet seat for the loosing team was taken by Grantham Explorers "The Poacher Squad". It was great to be joined by Explorers from the region this year and thanks to Collingham Scout group for the use of their HQ as our base and support throughout the event. Also a special mention to Michelle Nelson and Selina Sanderson who amongst many others helping them out, kept everybody fed and watered all weekend.

The challenge is on for next year - get the trophy back to Lincolnshire!

Exciting challenges for Billy at 7th Boston Beavers

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 29 Sep 2017 11:34:24 GMT

A young Beaver with learning difficulties is excited to start his Scouting journey

Billy has a number of learning difficulties and faces many challenges in life - including not being able to talk; he struggles with noises and many everyday things but with the help of leaders at 7th Boston Beavers, he is making lots of progress and is enjoying the group.

Billy's mother - and leader - Pippa Dore is delighted with his progress in the group:

"Billy has been very happily invested into 7th Boston Beavers. He is always very reluctant to wear anything around his head and getting him to accept a necker was a real challenge, but the leaders have been so patient and imaginative in thinking of ways to help Billy and give him confidence and he wore his necker with a huge smile as he was invested.

"I cannot thank 7th Boston Beavers enough for all they've done. Despite Billy's many challenges, he loves Beavers and as soon as I put his uniform on, he drags my bag to the front door and shouts until we leave!

"He's only been a Beaver for a few weeks but already he has broken down many barriers and tried things he wouldn't try at home. It's such a happy atmosphere there, I even enjoy it myself! Thank you so, so much. Seeing my little boy having so much fun each week like all the other children means the world. This really is what Scouting is all about."

RYA Awards for Skegness District

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 23 Sep 2017 11:35:25 GMT

Congratulations to the 3 scouts at 6th Skegness sea scouts on receiving their RYA sailing awards recently.

Splash Lincs 2017

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 17 Sep 2017 11:36:13 GMT

Scouts (aged 10-14) from across Lincolnshire took part in the annual Splash Lincs camp. This year the event was held at Covenham Reservoir near Louth and had a good range of adventurous activities including sailing, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding and rafting.

We're at the Lincolnshire Show!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 23:00:00 GMT

If you're looking for something different this year, and definitely a lot of fun, come and visit us at the Lincolnshire Show!
Lincolnshire Scouts already offers over 6,000 members the chance to have fun and try something new!
Scouts isn't just for girls and boys age 6 to 25 either!
If your an adult, and can spare a bit of time and your skills, we have lots to offer!

Come and see what's on offer at the Lincolnshire Show...

You'll find us in the Discovery Zone!
If you just can't wait, then get involved today!

Lincolnshire Scouts - Honda RYA Youth RIB Challenge

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 23:00:00 GMT

Lincolnshire Scouts held a heat of the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship, National Powerboating Championship to select two representatives (one in each age group (8-12 & 13-16)) to represent Lincolnshire Scouts at the Midlands Area Final. This event was open to cubs, scouts and explorers form the county and organised by William Baldock, Assistant County Commissioner (Explorer Scouts) for Lincolnshire Scouts.

The Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship, sponsored by Honda and Highfield, is a National Championship in which 8 - 16 year old Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) drivers can demonstrate their skills with the goal of winning a Highfield 460 or a Honwave T40 for their club.

The RYA (Royal Yachting Association), through its affiliated clubs, organisations and training centres will again run a National Championship in Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) for juniors/youths. Clubs, organisations and training centres wishing to participate hold local heats, at their premises, to determine whom they put forward to the Midlands Area Final on 1st July 2017 at Staunton Harold Sailing Club. There are 13 Area Finals and the winner in each age group (8-12 years and 13-16 years) takes part in the National Final held at the Southampton Boat Show on 17th September 2017.

Stamford and Ketton Explorers go back to basics

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 26 May 2017 23:00:00 GMT

Stamford and Ketton Explorers have spent a weekend learning bush craft skills at Dukes Covert campsite. Working towards their survival skills badge they have had to demonstrate a variety of different techniques including the lighting and building of a fire, learning how to cook variety of foods such as meat and fish over a fire and the construction of a shelter of natural or salvaged materials and sleeping overnight in it.

12 new Archery Instructors for Lincolnshire Scouts

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 20 May 2017 23:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to 12 leaders from Lincolnshire who have recently successfully completed their Archery GB Instructor Award at Dukes Covert Scout campsite. The aim of the course is to prepare leaders to to deliver fun, safe archery sessions for beginners. Deputy County Commissioner for Activities, Howard Nelson commented " I am very pleased to be able to congratulate our leaders on gaining this National Governing Body qualification and look forward to seeing them deliver sessions for our young people across the county". The course was just part of the wide range of adventure courses in the county that includes water sports, hill walking and land based activities such as Archery.

Adventure on the water for Lincolnshire Scouts!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 13 May 2017 23:00:00 GMT

70 Lincolnshire scouts took part in the annual Weekend on the Water at Hykeham Scouts. Activities including sailing, powerboating, kayaking, canoeing, standup paddle boarding and for the first time sub aqua were enjoyed by the young people who had a great weekend in glorious weather.

ACC Activities, Rachel Nelson, who led the event said she was really pleased that so many young people were able to gain national Governing Body qualifications and is looking forward to them getting afloat with their groups.

Lincolnshire Scouts Win First National Scout Award for Growth

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 23:00:00 GMT

Lincolnshire Scout County were recently awarded the first National Scout award for having the biggest percentage of growth in membership over the past year. The awards took place at the University of Warwick and included speeches from celebrity Scout Ambassador Steve Backshall. Lincolnshire scouts walked away with first prize for the Growth Award, making them the highest growing Scout County and Region across the UK over the last three years.

The Scout County have grown by 12.56 % over the three years (2015 to 2017)Lincolnshire Scouts are highest growing County in the UK over the last three years

Lincolnshire Scouts now have over 5,746 youth members aged between 6-25 and are supported by 2,129 volunteer leaders who dedicate their time to bring the young people of Lincolnshire fun, adventure and skills for life. Over the past three years County have welcomed over 722 young people to join their packed programme.

Robin Wright County Commissioner for the Scout Movement in Lincolnshire said
“I am so Proud Lincolnshire Scouts has been recognised nationally for the work it has been doing over that last four years to bring Scouting to more young people across the County. Winning this award is absolutely fantastic and is a great credit and a pack on the back, to all our volunteers who have given their time to improve scouting in Lincolnshire. It is all about more young people having the opportunity to develop their skills for life through an exciting and fun programme."

Scout Ambassador Steve Backshall said:
“This is a remarkable achievement for Lincolnshire Scouts, winning one of the first ever National Scout Awards and will be something they will remember forever. I feel honoured to be a part of this event and to hear about some of the amazing achievements in Lincolnshire and we have made as a movement. Every young person should have the chance to be involved in Scouting and although we are growing we still have a waiting list of over 275 young people eager to be a part of the fun and adventure in Lincolnshire, we just need more volunteers to make it possible. All the Scouts who were involved in the ceremony today should be tremendously proud of themselves and I am proud to be an ambassador of this adventurous movement.”

Lincolnshire Scout leaders qualify as RYA Safety Boat Drivers

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 23:00:00 GMT

Lincolnshire Scout leaders have recently qualified as RYA Safety Boat Drivers thanks to a county course hosted by Girton Sailing Club. The course includes the training necessary to provide safety cover for scouts when sailing and doing other water sports. It is part of Lincolnshire's wide range of courses aimed at increasing the number of young people taking part in outdoor activities and adventure.

Scouts Star in Podcast

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Willingham Scouts have produced an informative podcast to showcase local heritage

The podcast - which was released at the weekend - includes a audio tour of St Edith's church at Coates-by-Stow and St Michael's church in Cammeringham.

County Media Manager, Gemma Lowe, said:

"The Scouts worked incredibly hard and were very professional, their enthusiasm really shines through in the audio and the podcast is both entertaining and informative.

"This was a fantastic opportunity for our young people to learn about local heritage and share their experience with listeners. It would be great to get more groups across the County producing audio, using a wide range of skills and having fun in the process."

The podcast is now available online, listen now .

Grantham Cubs Support Local Nursing Home

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 12 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Cubs from 7th Grantham enjoy volunteering at Newton House Nursing Home

The Cubs have done three visits so far which has seen them play games and talk with the residents as well as perform Christmas carols. The volunteering was part of the Million Hands initiative that aims to get half a million young people committed to removing social barriers, connecting communities and improving lives.

The Cubs chose dementia awareness as the social issue that they wanted to focus on and they have also been involved in talks about dementia to raise awareness of the condition.

Sue Newbatt, Group Scout Leader, said:

“The group will be carrying on their link with the nursing home and we are looking at other ways in which we can get involved with them. One idea being discussed is a teddy bears picnic.

“One of the highlights so far was when the Cubs - who are reaching the end of their centenary year, highlighting one hundred years of Cub Scouting - met one of the nursing home residents who also turned 100 this year.”

Find out more about the Million Hands Project .

Bicycles, Baths and Backpacks

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 08 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Four Viking Explorers from Caistors have completed their Silver Duke of Edinburgh cycle expedition.

The group spent three days travelling through the White Peak in Derbyshire, starting with a comfy night at Hartington Youth Hostel; they made their way to Castleton with one new tyre -due to a detour down a very rocky wrong turning- two punctures, and a slight navigation error near Monsal Head, they covered a total of 100km!

The aim of their expedition was to look at how local industry has changed in the area, and so they spent some time looking at old railway workings on the Tissington Trail, quarries along side the High Peak Trail and lead mining in Castleton.

The weather was much kinder than on the practice expedition, and they managed the problems that occurred along the way with fantastic teamwork and were always cheerful. They especially liked their second night campsite as it had a bath!

100 Lincolnshire Cubs Learn CPR From 'Everyday Heroes'.

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 23:00:00 GMT

100 EAGER eight to ten-year-olds were put through their paces this week during LIVES Everyday Heroes Week (5 – 9 October) – as they learnt first-hand the basics of CPR.

As part of the Cubs 100 initiative - which is celebrating 100 years of Cub Scouts - Sleaford District Scouts took part in a CPR challenge, which aimed to train 100 young people Lincolnshire CPR over the course of one week.

Adam Jacklin, deputy district commissioner at Sleaford District Scouts and applications administrator at LIVES, said: “Scouts aims to equip young people with vital skills they can use for life and CPR is no exception. We were so pleased to work with an amazing charity like LIVES for this training, which provided many young Cubs with their first experience of CPR.

“All of the sessions which took place during the week offered first-class training, which would not have been possible without LIVES and its volunteers. I think it is fantastic that LIVES is celebrating its volunteers during Everyday Heroes Week, as volunteers are the life-blood of any voluntary organisation. Training in CPR can really make a difference, helping young people to gain confidence and understanding of something which can seem quote daunting to begin with. Our challenge has been a true success and we are thankful to LIVES and our Cubs who took part!”

During the sessions Cub Packs from across the Sleaford district took part in LIVES CPR training, including those based in: Sleaford, Horncastle, Heckington, Woodhall Spa, Bardney and Ruskington.

Nikki Silver, chief executive of LIVES, said: “We were delighted to have trained 100 members of the Sleaford District Cubs in the Cubs 100 CPR Challenge – that’s 100 new life-savers in Lincolnshire! It has been a great opportunity for us to educate young people in a safe environment, especially with our expert responders on hand to advise them. Thank you to all the Cubs and our ‘Everyday Heroes’ who took part in the sessions.”

Cubs on the Water 2016

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 16 Sep 2016 23:00:00 GMT

After a staggering response from cubs across Lincolnshire with the event full up just over a month after opening it, 100 cubs had a fun day on the water at Apex pits at North Hykeham. The event was organised to mark 100 years of cub scouting and to give the opportunity for more young people to take part in adventurous activities. The cubs took part in Sailing, Canoeing, Rafting and Model Boat Making. Thanks are also due to all those who helped and to the RNLI who enthralled the cubs with a talk / videos on Respecting the Water. The cubs earned their "Time on the water badge 2" and despite the wet weather had a fantastic day.

Rachel Nelson (20) the event organiser said "I was very pleased with the response to event and very grateful for all the help I got in organising and running the event. All the cubs had a fantastic day and are already asking when the next "Cubs on the Water" day will be!"

Viking Explorers' Triumph With DofE Cycle Expedition

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 14 Aug 2016 23:00:00 GMT

Five Viking Explorers from Louth District completed a demanding 100km cycle expedition as part of their Silver Duke of Edingburgh Award.

Explorer Scout Leader, Jan Waite, said:

"The Explorers spent three days travelling through the White Peak in Derbyshire; after one new tyre, two punctures and a slight navigation error, they covered a total of 100km - an amazing achievement!

"The aim of their expedition was to look at how local industry has changed in the area, this saw them spending time looking at old railway workings on the Tissington Trail, quarries alongside the High Peak Trail, and lead mining in Castleton.

"They were lucky with the weather and worked well as a team to overcome the difficulties that they faced, remaining cheerful throughout.

"Two members of the group, Archie Bennett and George Fleetwood, have also recently completed their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards and also gained their Platinum Chief Scout Awards.

"A huge congratulations to all Viking Explorers who have enjoyed fantastic achievements and personal challenges."

Bronze Qualifying Expedition

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 24 Jul 2016 23:00:00 GMT

Over the weekend nine Sleaford Explorer Scouts completed their Duke of Edinburgh Award Bronze Qualifying Expedition in the picturesque and very sunny Lincolnshire Wolds.

As two teams the Explorer Scouts journeyed through the Lincolnshire Wolds, starting at Alford and finishing on Sunday in Horncastle after spending an evening under canvas at Tetford. The expedition is a challenging journey on foot and forms one of four mandatory elements of the young people's DofE Awards.

Whilst on their expedition the explorers navigational and team work skills were put to the test, as well as their campcraft skills. Throughout the weekend the explorers were under the scrutiny of Tom (our local friendly DofE Assessor) to check they met the requirements of the award.

James Walker, DofE Advisor, praised the young people on their achievement:

"The Explorers should be proud of a superb expedition - they navigated a challenging route without fault and were always where they should be and on time."

We're looking forward to meeting the Explorer Scouts in September as they complete the final element of the expedition section - the presentation, where we'll no doubt hear about blisters, lost water bottles and beef jerky.

Award Winning Leader Completing DofE Journey with Fundraising Diamond Challenge

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 13 Jul 2016 23:00:00 GMT

1st Waddington’s Assistant Cub Scout Leader, Cat Tyler, will be walking the 84-mile length of Hadrian’s Wall Path to raise money for more young people to take part in outdoor adventures.

Cat, along with her mother Julia, a Cub Scout Leader, and Julia’s partner, will begin the walk on 21 August; which will see them make their way on foot from Wallsend in the east to Bowness-on-Solway on the west coast.

Cat decided to complete the walk for her Duke of Edinburgh Diamond Challenge; funds raised will be donated to the DofE Charity so that it can transform the lives of more young people and offer free places and bursary grants to those most in need.

The Diamond Challenge is an initiative that was launched to celebrate 60 years of the Duke of Edinburgh Award; it allows people of all ages to take on a challenge to earn their Diamond Pin.

Cat, 25, is no stranger to the Award; in May she was one of only a handful of Scouts invited to Buckingham Palace to receive her Gold Award as part of the DofE Diamond Anniversary celebrations.

She said:

“I am really looking forward to this adventure! Completing this challenge will be a huge achievement, especially for my mum who is recovering from a recent car accident as well as battling ongoing health problems.

“Having recently completed my Queen’s Scout Award and DofE Gold Award, this challenge is the next step for me. The funds we raise will go towards DofE provision in our area which will help young people who might not otherwise get a chance to do their DofE Awards.

“Having struggled through parts of my Awards, in part due to financial constraints, I know that the effort we put in will help young people to achieve.

“As a Leader in Scouting, seeing young people realise their potential and achieve is always rewarding.”

100th Birthday Party for Cub Scouts in Lincolnshire

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Thu, 23 Jun 2016 23:00:00 GMT

Over 1000 Cub Scouts from across Lincolnshire enjoy birthday celebrations at Lincub county camp.

The event, which took place at Burleigh House in Stamford, was part of worldwide celebrations marking 100 years of Cub Scouting.

Cub Scouts, aged between eight and ten years, joined over 600 adult leaders at the camp from 17th to the 19th June. They took part in a wide range of activities including climbing, canoeing, grass sledging and crafts.

For many of the young people, it was their first experience of a camp away from home and was an opportunity for them to make new friends and build their confidence.

Rob Johnson, District Commissioner for Boston Scouts, managed one of four sub-camps of Cubs. He said:

“Lincub was an excellent event which saw all Cubs have a great time and enjoy a wide range of exciting activities.

“The event was well organised and supported by a large number of volunteers and everyone was happy to put away dry tents at the end of the celebrations following good weather.

“It was a huge celebration for a huge event in the Scouting calendar, happy birthday Cub Scouts!”

Lincoln Cubs Join Local Community to Celebrate the Queen’s Birthday

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 11 Jun 2016 23:00:00 GMT

Residents of Lincoln’s West End were invited to St Faith’s Church on Charles Street West where 7th Lincoln Cubs were running a café selling a selection of cakes and sandwiches; the event also had a range of activities for people to take part in, including crafts and sports.

The event was a partnership between community groups; including Scouts, the West-Enders, the West End Residents Association (WERA) and Guides, as part of celebrations marking the Queen’s 90th birthday.

The Cubs enjoyed meeting the local community and selling cakes that had been donated by their parents and local residents. Funds from cake sales will be shared between the Cub Group, St Faith’s Church, the West-Enders and Guides.

Cub, Maria - aged 9, was glad to be involved in the celebrations:

“It’s been really good to be involved, it is great that selling cakes is raising money for lots of people and also it is also giving me the chance to work towards some of my badges.”

Jacob, aged 9, also helped selling cakes:

“I think this is a good way to celebrate the Queen’s birthday; it helps the community to fundraise, socialise and eat cake!

“I like seeing people’s faces when they taste the yummy cakes.”

Ruby, aged 10, enjoyed helping at the event:

“I like it because we are helping to fundraise and some of the money will help to get us new equipment and games, it helps lots of other people from Lincoln too.”

Cub Leader, Anja Reynolds said:

“Events like this one bring young people up to be valuable members of their community and get involved in their local area.

“It is great for them to be out there taking part but also they can feel a sense of achievement as they work towards gaining badges too.”

Young people from Grantham join over 1,200 Cub Scouts to celebrate a Centenary of Adventure

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 30 May 2016 23:00:00 GMT

The Cub Scouts are celebrating 100 years of Cub Scouting at a week-long camp at Gilwell Park Activity Centre from 28 May to 3 June 2016. The event – called CubJam – is the biggest Cub Scout camp in 10 years.

The theme for the week-long camp is the Wild West. Cub Scouts have the opportunity to try their hand at caving, archery, bungee running, zorbing and motor racing, as well as take part a variety of traditional camp-based activities.

Eve Konarska, aged 9, Cub Scout from Grantham, said:

“My favourite thing about being a Cub is going on adventures and camps like CubJam, we get to try lots of new activities and get to have fun with my friends.”

Chief Scout and adventurer Bear Grylls flew by helicopter into Gilwell Park to meet some of the Cub Scouts before taking off to visit six further locations across the UK. He said:

“I am super proud to be a part of celebrating 100 years of Cub Scouting; this event is unique as it gives a chance for Cubs across the UK to meet up and share fun and adventures in a way that only Scouting can!”

Cub Scouting’s ambassador and fellow adventurer Steve Backshall is also attending the camp later in the week.

The event is part of Cubs 100 – a year-long programme of events in celebration of the Cubs’ centenary year in 2016. Over 156,000 Cub Scouts will have the opportunity to get involved with the Widest Birthday Ever! experience, creating new memories and friendships throughout the year.

Sandra Otter, Cub Scout leader from Grantham, said:

“Events such as CubJam give Cubs the freedom and independence to make new friends and do loads of activities in a safe and fun environment.”

As part of the anniversary celebrations, The LEGO Group will be sending the UK’s only LEGO Certified Professional builder, Duncan Titmarsh, along to the event to construct a celebration cake made entirely of LEGO bricks. The cake will be made up of over 22,000 LEGO bricks as well as 100 LEGO candles and will take an average of 120 hours to build! Cub Scouts from CubJam will be helping Duncan and his team build the creative image on the top of the cake.

The Scout Association hopes that Cubs 100 will help to further the growth of the Movement among both young people and adult volunteers.

WOW Watersports Camp

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 20 May 2016 23:00:00 GMT

A great weekend supporting Scoutings Youth in Adventure with 36 (mostly young people!) completing NGBs and Permits in Canoeing, Kayaking, Powerboating & Sailing at Hykeham Scouts Water Base.

Scouts from across Lincolnshire celebrate St George’s Day

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 23:00:00 GMT

Scouts of all ages have been busy taking part in parades to mark the occasion.

The Sunday nearest to St. George's Day is an annual occasion for Scouts to hold ceremonies when they reaffirm their Promise and acknowledge the Scout Law in a national act of dedication.

Founder of the Scouting Movement, Lord Baden-Powell wrote about St George in his books:

“He is also the Patron Saint of Scouts everywhere. Therefore all Scouts should know his story. St George was typical of what a Scout should be.

“When he was faced by a difficulty or danger, however great it appeared, even in the shape of a dragon - he did not avoid it or fear it but went at it with all the power he could... That is exactly the way a Scout should face a difficulty or danger no matter how great or how terrifying it may appear. They should go at it boldly and confidently, using every power that they can to try and overcome it, and the probability is that they will succeed.”

To view photos of Lincolnshire Scouts celebrating St George’s Day, visit our Facebook Page .

Young People of Lincolnshire Reach New Heights at Countryside Lincs

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 10 Apr 2016 23:00:00 GMT

This weekend we took our climbing tower along to the Countryside Lincs event at Lincolnshire Showground for local youngsters to experience a tiny piece of what Scouting has to offer.

The event offered a fun day out with a range of activities for families to try; our climbing tower was extremely popular with young people keen to challenge themselves to reach the top.

County Commissioner, Robin Wright said:

"It's been a really superb day here.

"It's been great to see so many really young children having fun today and enjoying what Scouting has to offer. "

A huge thank you to all Scouts and Leaders who attended on the day to lend a hand.

Lincoln Network Scouts Enjoy Successful ‘Lincoln 24’ Event After Months of Planning

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 23:00:00 GMT

The event, planned by Network Scouts, saw participants stay awake for 24 hours, completing a range of teambuilding activities.

Based on the idea of Gilwell 24 – an annual event at Scout Headquarters in Essex - members of City of Lincoln District Network (CoLDNET) have spent months working together tirelessly to make their vision of Lincoln 24 a reality.

Network Scouts - aged between 18 and 25 years - are encouraged to run projects, such as event planning, in three key areas: Adventure, Community and International. The projects aim to help them develop as individuals as well as being rewarding and enjoyable and have a lasting impact on local Scouting.

Members of CoLDNET have been working as a team for the past eight months planning the Lincoln 24 event which took place at Altham Terrace campsite last weekend; participants took part in a range of exciting opportunities, including kayaking, archery, caving, and survival skills.

All participants successfully managed to stay awake for the 24 hours (although some of the Leaders had to take a nap!), and everyone involved enjoyed the weekend which also aimed to strengthen links between Network, and Scouts and Explorers.

Lincoln District Scout Network Commissioner, David Thompson said:

“This is the first project that CoLDNET have planned and it turned out to be a great success.

“I am extremely proud of the entire planning team and they should be delighted with their achievements.

“The weekend was supported by an excellent team of Leaders who also deserve thanks for the success of the weekend."

Cas Potterton, an Explorer Scout who attended the event, enjoyed it so much that he went on Lincoln based radio station, Siren FM to share his experience with listeners.

YouShape 2016

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Thu, 31 Mar 2016 23:00:00 GMT

#YouShape was a national event held at Dearne Valley Activity Centre in Doncaster. James (County Youth Commissioner) and myself were some of the lucky participants that were able to attend.

There were over 200 participants and facilitators there to learn more about youth shaped scouting and to have our say. We arrived on the Friday night and had a chilled out evening getting to people and making new friends, we were also given pledge cards, so each participant could pledge to do something within the next year, after our main hall sessions and after each of our breakout sessions we would make a pledge.

On Saturday we had to be up at 6am to get ready for a long day. Around 9am we were all sat down on our tables in the main hall. Each table had a facilitator to ensure that we understood the discussions and to keep conversation going. There were live streams to the event all morning so people who couldn’t attend the event could also take part and have their say. We discussed things such as ‘Should beavers have lodge leaders’ ‘What do section leaders and Young Leaders need to do to make Youth shaped scouting work’ and ‘How can we better support those going in management roles’.

After lunch we have sessions on the vision 2018 topics. Community Impact discussed ‘what a high quality impact project looks like’, with answers such as genuinely changes the lives of others, embedded within the programme and develops the young people taking part. We discussed ‘A Millions Hands’ and what would motivate us to get involved in A Million Hands Project.

In inclusivity we discussed all the things we can be discriminated against and answered questions such as, what does an inclusive section look like? And how we can make our sections inclusive? We were asked in our groups to define scouting for all in 1 sentence, as a group we came up with ‘Scouting for all is when everyone in all levels of the movement are treated equally, are included in activities and decisions, feel valued and accept the diversity of those within scouting’.

For growth, we discussed that it is a combination of two things; retention and new sections. We were asked questions such as ‘Is growth important?’ ‘What are the barriers to growth?’ and ‘What is needed in order for us to grow as a movement?’

Before we went to #YouShape we were all asked to do a questionnaire on what we would most like our breakout sessions to be about. There was a choice of 11 topics; Inclusivity, Youth Commissioners, Youth Forums, Digital, Communications, Young Leaders, International, Network, Retention, Speak Up, Governance and Adventure. Our top 4 choices would be the Breakout sessions we would attend.

After tea on the Saturday we had our first break out session. Mine was Youth Commissioners, we spoke about the troubles that we are having within Districts/ Counties/ Areas/ Regions, whether it be communication issues or issues down the line in districts or up the line with County/Region/Area. We spoke about the changes we have currently made so far or are trying to implement with the help of our line managers. We discovered that no two areas were the same, we were all having different issues/road blocks or each having different positive changes. We discussed that all District Youth Commissioners are a part of the District Executive as Exofficio members.

Our other 3 sessions were held on the Sunday, my first one for the day was Youth Forums. We were discussing how useful the Youth Shaped Scouting Booklets were for each section, and we tried different games that could make youth forums more fun. For Beavers we played ‘Imaginary Line’ and answered questions on youth shaped scouting and what we thought of the weekend, running from one side of the hall for yes, to the other for no, or in the middle for not quite sure. For Cubs we played ‘The Sun Shines on.’ which was using a parachute and run under it to the other side if we agreed with a statement or question that was asked, and then we all sat under the parachute having a discussion on how well the weekend has gone and what things we would like to change when we went back home. We made paper aeroplanes with questions on and read out the planes that traveled the furthest, and everyone helped answer the questions and gave advice. We also played team games to remind us that fun needs to be had at youth forums and to break the time up so the young people are not always sat down.

My Second session was Adventure. We discussed what adventure and an adventurous activity means to us. We found out that almost any activity a young person does can be an adventurous activity, as everyone’s abilities are different, whether it be doing your DofE expedition, climbing a mountain or evening singing. We also looked at activity permits and how accessible is it to acquire and activity permit.

My last breakout session was International. We looked at international trips and what you need to organise an international trip, but we also looked at global issues such as inequality, water aid, climate change and access to education. We had 4 scenarios, 1 connecting to each global issue, and in groups we had to come up with an idea to run a night with 4 sections (Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers).

Throughout the course of the weekend we got to meet many people and have a chat with them about our new roles, how we are finding them and some ideas that we have. I had the opportunity to meet Hannah Kentish (UK Youth Commissioner), Jagz Bharth and Jay Thompson (Deputy UK Youth Commissioners), Tim Kidd (the soon to be UK Chief Commissioner), and Wayne Bulpitt (UK Chief Commissioner).

The whole weekend was an amazing experience and as with any scouting event you make new friends, reconnect with old friends and make new memories. To have had this opportunity I am extremely grateful and will be bringing positive ideas to my group.

Tasha Hopkin
Deputy County Youth Commissioner

Viking Explorers - Winter Adventures

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 14 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The term got off to a busy start with SPLASH in September, the weekend was spent learning to sail and kayak. Good weather meant we didn’t mind getting wet!

Our next challenge was an evening spent gliding as guests of the Trent Valley Gliding Club, followed by five members of the unit setting off on their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition in the Lincolnshire Wolds the next day. Again we were blessed with warm weather, and after two days and an overnight camp the assessor was very impressed and they all passed.

In October, members of the unit took part in a Rabbit Run - a night navigation exercise and competition. We entered two teams and both of them completed the course, with one team arriving back at 3.44am, just one minute before disqualification!

November saw the unit take part in the Remembrance Parade at Caistor as well as attending the Chiller Camp at Walesby. We had to cope with gales and sub-zero temperatures, and took part in a range of activities including a high ropes course, air rifle shooting and a cave maze.

In December Viking Explorers traveled by train to London to stay for a weekend at Gilwell Park. We visited the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, the Imperial War Museum and Hamleys toy shop. Unfortunately we didn’t get our trip over the Thames on the cable car due to high winds. Back at Gilwell after a yummy tea we tackled the high ropes course. On the Sunday morning we invested our newest member, James, at Kings Cross Station. Two of our meetings have been spent fund-raising, with a BBQ stall at the Caistor Christmas lights switch-on and an internationally themed quiz night.

We have also presented 4 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards and 3 Platinum Chief Scout Awards.

Planning is now underway for a Silver D of E expedition by bike, with another group starting their Bronze Award, and a summer camp.

We meet in Caistor on most Friday evenings, 7 to 9pm and have a full programme organised for the coming months.

UK Youth Commissioner Visits Lincolnshire Scouts

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 13 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Scout Youth Commissioner, Hannah Kentish, visited Sudbrooke Scouts camp on her first visit to Lincolnshire to see what Scouting is offering to local youngsters.

Scouts from across Lincolnshire attended the camp at Sudbrooke at the weekend which was a chance for the young Patrol Leaders and Assistant Patrol Leaders to receive training for their Scout leadership roles - this included a range of activities, from climbing and caving techniques to survival skills. This was the first camp of its kind in the county.

Deputy County Commissioner, Lorraine Noble-Thompson said:

“It is our intention to build on the success of this camp by running similar events throughout all of our sections, including Beavers and Cubs.

“We have a successful Young Leader training programme and it will be a great experience for our Young Leaders running camps like these.

“We are also looking at launching similar events, including a regular ‘competition camp’ that will start in South Holland District later this year and move around the region to different locations on an annual basis.”

The weekend was an opportunity for the Scout’s UK Youth Commissioner, Hannah, 23, to visit the county and speak to the young people of Lincolnshire; she will take their suggestions back to Scout Headquarters in London.

“It’s really exciting to see so many young people in Lincolnshire being given the opportunity to shape their own Scouting experience.” Said Hannah.

“I was a Scout myself from the age of ten, and I got involved in chairing the Youth Forum before working for my own County Team and eventually getting into my role that I am in now, working alongside our young people to lead Scouting in the UK.

“Not only are there over 100 10 to 14 year-olds here at Sudbrooke today developing their skills and becoming fantastic leaders; the whole camp is being run in partnership with the young people.

“I am absolutely blown away by the talented young people here today and their achievements within Lincolnshire Scouts.”

Explorer Scout Jack Leatherland, 14, currently chairs the Lincolnshire County Youth Forum:

“I think it is great that we have been able to meet Hannah this weekend; it has been a good chance for our Scouts to speak to a senior leader in Scouting and have their say on what they want Scouting to be like.

“For me, Scouting is a great opportunity to do things I wouldn’t get to do anywhere else, there’s loads of activities.

“I started in Beavers when I around six years old and have worked my way all the way up to where I am now, making friends every step of the way.”

RYA Assistant Instructors

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 06 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to Lincolnshire Scouts new Royal Yachting Association Assistant Instructors who qualified this weekend at Lincoln and District Sailing Association.

ACC Activities and Course Leader, Howard Nelson commented that despite the cold conditions, the candidates did very well learning about RYA training methods including land drills. He is looking forward to working with our new Assistant instructors as we grow outdoor activities accross the county as part of our adventure programme.

Basic Expedition Leader (BEL) Course launched by Lincolnshire Scouts

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 21 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Lincolnshire Scouts has launched a Basic Expedition Leader (BEL) Course to help train leaders. The new scout programme aims to have Outdoor & Adventure as 50% of the scout programme and this is one initiative by the County to help achieve this.

Gold D of E Expedition Coldnet (Lincoln Network) / Stamford Explorers

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 28 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMT

A joint expedition for Coldnet (Lincoln Network) and Stamford Explorers took place recently with the group successfully completing their expediton challenge for their Gold D of E and Queens Scout Award on the Norfolk Broads.

Braving cold autumnal weather the team sailed and rowed across the Norfolk Broads from Wroxham to Hickling. The team have spent the last year training for the expedition learning a wide range of skills including sailing, camp craft, safety routines, food and cooking and navigation and route planning. The team completed a practice expedition prior to their final expedition over four days where they camped and were self sufficient.

Follow the Japan Jamboree Adventure!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 23:00:00 GMT

It's less than 5 days until our Lincolnshire unit leave for the 23rd World Scout Jamboree in Japan! It's come round quickly and we have some very excited young people!

The 27 Explorers and 9 Senior Section from Midlands Girlguiding are an amazing group of people and it is a pleasure to be taking them to the Jamboree in Japan. Without the support they have been given from groups and districts they would not have raised so much money or being the people they are in Scouting today. This will certainly inspire the next unit for the 2019 Jamboree in the USA.

Anybody in Scouts now will be the right age for the next Jamboree and this could be yet another reason to stay in Scouting to Explorers!

Award winning Lincolnshire Show Team

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 28 Jun 2015 23:00:00 GMT

Show makers and Show Team attended this years 131st Lincolnshire show to promote Lincolnshire scouts are on an adventure . The objective was to engage with adults and young people over the two days of the show and encourage more adults to become adult leaders of more YP to join.

With the weather perfect for people to venture out to the show over 60,000+ will come through the gates over the two days of the show.

The climbing tower was a real pull and the show makers and climbing team were kept busy all day with YP wanting to take up the tower challenge . We even managed to get one of the Red Arrow leader up the tower to the excitement of Jan.

The Show Team worked very hard before the show in the Build and it sure paid off with all the smart Show Makers on the day as the stand won the Ramsey Cup for the Best None Agricultural stand. Something that we have not even dreamed of and certainly not on our first attendance. All the team were on their best behavior when Lady Sarah McCorquodale, President of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society presented a rather nice silver cup on the Thursday morning on the stand.

The Show makers were kept very busy talking to people and completing enquiry forms for both leaders and also leaders,

We are already planning next years show on the 22nd 23rd June and have more people on the committee with some of the Young people show makers joining the board.

See more images here

Lincolnshire Scouts meet Bear Grylls at county adventure day

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 19 May 2015 23:00:00 GMT

More than 1300 Beavers, Cubs and Scouts from Sleaford were among those who met chief scout Bear Grylls at a jam-packed adventure day in Lincolnshire.

Young people from across the county took part in a range of exciting activities including quad biking, archery, climbing, bungee trampolining, and water zorbing.

Bear Grylls, who has recently been re-appointed as Chief Scout, extending his term until 2018, dropped in to the event by helicopter for just under an hour to meet young people, and join in several of the activities.

He said: “I am so proud that the largest youth Movement on the planet has asked me to re-new as their UK Chief Scout. Between now and 2018 I plan to do all that I possibly can to help the Movement to continue to grow, become more reflective of the communities in which it works in and change the lives of even more young people.”

Thomas Watson, an Explorer Scout, was one of the young people escorting Bear around the event. He said: “Bear was brilliant, talking to all the young people and shaking hands all the way round. We got the chance to talk to him about Scouting in Lincolnshire, which was great.”

The adventure day provided activities for Scouts aged from 6-18, and was supported by more than 250 volunteer leaders and activity staff from all over the county.

Bear said thank you to these adult volunteers who help deliver adventure, and called upon more adults to volunteer for Scouting in the future, to help the Movement grow.

In addition to the adventure day, held at Burghley House near Stamford, Bear also visited 150 Scouts taking part in accreditation for water sports instruction at Hykeham Lakes in Lincoln for Weekend On Water (WOW).

See a selection of the photos from the Adventure Day

Cornwell Scout Award Presentation to Richard Sargent

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 16 May 2015 23:00:00 GMT

The Chief Scout has presented British Paralympian basketball player and Lincolnshire Scouts Ambassador, Richard Sargent with the highly prestigious Cornwell Scout award at Hykeham Water Sports Centre.

The Cornwell Scout Badge is awarded in respect of pre-eminently high character and devotion to duty, together with great courage and endurance.

It is restricted to Beaver Scouts, Cub Scouts, Scouts, Explorer Scouts and Scout Network Members. Both the bronze badge and the cloth emblem of the same design may be worn.

John 'Jack' Travers Cornwell, a Scout in the St. Mary’s Mission Group, Manor Park, London, entered the Royal Navy in 1915. It was wartime and training was brief, but Jack, helped by his days in Scout ing, was able to adapt quickly.

On 31 May 1916 while serving in HMS Chester, Jack was struck by a shell splinter. Grievously wounded, he stayed at his post awaiting orders until he was relieved at the end of the battle. On reaching port, Jack was transferred to a hospital in Grimsby and three days later he died a national hero.

For gallantry he was given both the Victoria Cross and the highest Scouting award, the Bronze Cross. To commemorate the courage shown by Jack, The Scout Association created ‘The Cornwell Scout Badge’ in his memory.

Lincolnshire Scouts Push the Boat Out with Bear Grylls!

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 15 May 2015 23:00:00 GMT

UK Chief Scout Bear Grylls flew into a weekend water activities training camp based at Hykeham Water Activities Centre, Lincoln. The flying visit was part of a Bear in the Air tour of the East Midlands.

Following his arrival by helicopter Bear took to the water in a powerboat along with East Midlands Regional Commissioner Sue Harris and made his way around the water chatting with over 80 Scouts and volunteers taking part in a variety of water activities including dinghy sailing, kayaking and powerboating.

The aim of the event was to help develop skills to allow more adventurous activities to take place in the county by increasing the number of Scouts and volunteers achieving National Governing Body qualifications. It also formed part of the Royal Yachting Association’s national Push the Boat Out initiative, encouraging more people onto the water.

The new skills learnt over the weekend will allow more Scouts to take to the water in the future whilst also providing further opportunities for personal development through instructor qualifications and competitions such as the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship.

After his time on the water Bear presented paralympian basketball player and Lincolnshire Scouts Ambassador Richard Sargent with the Cornwell Scout Award.

See a selection of the photos from WOW

The Viking Explorer Scout Unit – Investitures

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Wed, 06 May 2015 23:00:00 GMT

In February of this year a new Explorer Scout Unit was formed, for young people aged 14 to 18 in the Caistor area. On Friday 17 April at the Oaks Camp Site, Nettleton, the Viking Explorer Scout Unit (Louth District) took a gigantic step forward with their very first Investiture Ceremony. Eight young people from the Caistor and surrounding areas made their Promise, received neckerchiefs and badges signifying their entry into the Worldwide Family of Scouting.

The eight members have been working towards their membership badges since the opening of the Unit, learning about the ethos and history of scouting, as well as taking part in more adventurous activities. Amongst other things, they have already spent nights away camping; hiking in the Lincolnshire Wolds and the Peak District and also assisted at the 1st Grasby Scout Group at their Families Day in March. The Explorers have been extremely busy and have a packed programme ahead of them, including working towards the Chief Scout Awards, Duke of Edinburgh Awards, indoor rock-climbing, raft racing, orienteering and many more activities indoor and out. Indeed the day after Investiture, 4 of the Explorers successfully completed the Wolds Challenge in East Yorkshire, completing the 17 mile course up and down the hills in less than 7 hours.

Two of the Explorers are also going through a rigorous training programme preparing them for this summer’s World Scout Jamboree in Japan. They have both been on training camps each month for the last year in addition to fund-raising for the event.

With the Investiture, The Viking Explorer Scout Unit is now fully formed. Its two leaders, James Barnett and Jan Waite bring a wealth of experience of the Scouting and Duke of Edinburgh’s awards schemes between them.

“The Unit has a great future ahead; the members have some exciting ideas for future activities. They really are a great group of young people and a pleasure to work with. Other members of my family have been involved with scouting for many years, but it is a first for me and I would recommend it to others. ”, said Jan Waite

James added, “The members of the Unit have bonded together quickly and very well. They each have their own individual trait to add to the whole team effort. We have had a lot of fun already and I really pleased to be a part of the Unit. We mustn’t forget, though, the support from the parents for which we are all very grateful and the assistance that the Louth Scouting District has given us in setting up. “

The Unit has places available for any young person between the age of 14 and 17 who would be interested in joining the Viking Explorer Unit. No previous scouting experience is needed. They meet on Friday evenings in and around Caistor.

Stamcamp 2015 - Stamford and Bourne's Annual District Camp

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Fri, 01 May 2015 23:00:00 GMT

Stamford and Bourne District once again held their annual District Camp 'Stamcamp' at Burghley House, Stamford. Activities on offer included the County Climbing Tower along with other activities provided by the County.

Lincolnshire Scouts at National Scout Service and Parade at Windsor Castle

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 25 Apr 2015 23:00:00 GMT

The National Scout Service and Parade took place on 26 April 2015 with strong representation from both Leaders and Queen's Scouts from Lincolnshire.

The event recognises the outstanding achievements of both adults and young people through a parade and service held annually within Windsor Castle by gift of Her Majesty the Queen. The celebrations brought together various groups and their invited guests to share in this prestigious and special event. The day recognised Queen's Scouts, who have worked hard to achieve the highest youth award within Scouting, and Gallantry award holders, who have been nominated for their bravery and heroism. It also celebrates adult award holders, who have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to Scouting as a volunteer.

Just after lunch the Quadrangle (a private area, which is a privilege for the Scouts to use) was filled with approximately 2,000 award holders and guests. The Queen's Scouts paraded into the Quadrangle for a review before the parade moved down to St George's Chapel for the National Scout Service. Finally, the Parade moved out of the castle and back to the Royal Mews.

Lincs Scouts Youth Forum welcomes UK Chief Commissioner

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 28 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Lincolnshire Scouts Youth Forum welcomes UK Chief Commissioner, Wayne Bulpitt to Bourne.

The Gold Awards Lincoln District

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 20 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

SCOUTS GOLD AWARDS, Lincoln Cathedral, Chapter house, Monday 5th January 2015.
On a cold winter’s night stood at the west front of the Cathedral you might have thought people were getting ready for St Georges Day Parade rehearsal, as Scouts stood in uniform without coats they are so well trained, no one said” no coats” but they knew to be smart.
John Campbell from the Cathedral came out to greet the Scouts and parents, as with St Georges Day he opened the big west doors to let everyone in, mind the step, mind the step was said so many times and still someone missed the step (no injuries) just that embraced look and we all know that feeling.
Entering the Cathedral I was amazed there was no chairs set out it is then that you realise just how big a space there is.
John spoke to all the Scouts their parents and leaders, he said what a great achievement to get their gold awards and the hard work that goes into gaining the badge, he then introduced 2 of the Cathedral guides, everyone was split into 3 groups, we then went off in different direction for a short guided tour, I heard several people say I have been in here so many times but have learned so much about the building and its history, I would advise anyone to go on a guided tour of the Cathedral you may be amazed, this was my 3rd guided tour and I learnt something again, there was lots of humour in the talk which makes it even more interesting, if you see John ask him about Durham Cathedral.
Following the tour we were taken to the Chapter House for the presentation it was lovely and warm in there, our County Commissioner was introduced by Chris ADC scouts Robin the CC spoke of how they can now move on in their scouting and if they want to go for their Duke of Edinburgh awards and the Queen’s Scout award all of this would help them in the future, he said to gain your gold award was an amazing achievement they were a credit to Scouting and their parents.
It was lovely to see all these young people some have come all the way through from Beavers, I am sure they look back over the years in scouting and can tale many tales of fun, laughter and many achievements along the way, they all seem very confident young people which is what Scouting hopes our young people gain from all the different activities they take part in, allowing a young person to develop to their full potential is one of our main objectives, all these young people are truly a credit to themselves, their leaders and parents and I am sure the parents watching felt very proud of their children, we always say each top award for each section is the best they can do for that section on this occasion the best scouts on the day.
I hope in the future they will gain even higher awards and fingers crossed become leaders and use the knowledge and skills to help other young people achieve their full potential, and take their skills into adulthood in their chosen jobs.
Bravo to you all from everyone in Lincoln District
Sandra Donnor ADC Beavers.

Wintercamp 2015

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 18 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Local Scouts met up with 3,000 others from across the UK to welcome in a new year of adventure whilst camping at Gilwell Park in North East London, the home of Scouting and outdoor adventure.

The annual Winter Camp in January provides the opportunity for Scouts to take part in over seventy different adventurous and fun activities ranging from abseiling to Zorbing. The boys and girls, aged between 10-18, along with nearly 1,000 adult Leaders, enjoyed the experience of sleeping in tents for two nights, cooking on open fires and enjoying a packed programme led by a team of 200 adult volunteers.

Whilst this event was taking place at Gilwell Park, at the other end of the UK, Hawkhirst Scout Activity Centre in Northumberland was hosting a similar event for the first time for 500 Scouts and nearly 200 adult Leaders. Hawkhirst is one of nine Scout Activity Centres across the UK and is known for its location set in the heart of Kielder Forest on the edge of Kielder Water.

Jacob from Grantham said “I love camping in any weather, so this weekend has been great; Winter Camp is so much fun, and I’ve enjoyed trying new things like climbing the monkey tree.”

Youth Forum - January 2015

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sat, 17 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Thank you to all who attended and supported the Forum today. We had a really productive meeting discussing a range of topics and completing our video project (results to follow soon...)

Our next forum will be in March and includes a visit from UK Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt.

Rachel Nelson
(Chair)

Young commissioner's praise after 'incredible' year of awards for Gainsborough Explorer Scouts

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

A young Lincolnshire Scout leader honoured for his dedication to the movement has praised his own teenage troop for their outstanding achievements over the past 12 months.

William Baldock spoke out at the end of 2013 after his Gainsborough Explorer Scouts won a total of eight Queen's Scout Awards and nine Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards.

"This has been an incredible year, both individually and as part of the drive to encourage the Scout Association’s 2018 Vision giving reason to celebrate," said 23-year-old Mr Baldock, who is also the Gainsborough District Explorer Scout Commissioner.

He was presented with a Commissioner’s Commendation Award for services to Scouting in Gainsborough and Lincolnshire

It recognised involvement in developing Explorer Scouting in Gainsborough and supporting the Lincolnshire County Youth Forum.

"Young people are now shaping the programme and decisions, helping the district to fulfil the 2018 Vision.

"And as we continue to grow we are looking to expand our leadership team to allow more young people to benefit from the fun, adventure and challenges that Scouting provides."

D of E Supervisors Course at Stamford

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

20 adult leaders attended the D of E Supervisors course at Stamford in January. The course covered the key elements of how to be an effective Duke of Edinburgh Award Supervisor.

Michelle Nelson, the recently appointed County D of E Advisor thanked the participants for giving up their time and also for all the work they do for the young people who take part in D of E in Lincolnshire. Michelle also congratulated Meghan Bird from Stamford and Bourne Network who was awarded her Explorer Belt from Deputy County Commissioner, Lorraine Noble-Thompson.

Volunteering! - Bucket Loads of Adventure

richard@me.ms (Richard Harvey) — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 23:00:00 GMT

A group of young Scout leaders have teamed up to organise a combination of water and land-based activities to highlight the need for more adult volunteers.

The Gainsborough area team of three took a group of 20 teenage boy and girl Scouts to the Girton Sailing Club near Newark.

Activities on offer included dinghy sailing, kayaking, open canoeing, power boating, archery, Scout skills and hiking.

Part of the drive to encourage the Scout Association’s 2018 Vision, young Scout Leaders Adam Middleton, 27, from 6th Gainsborough Sea Scouts, William Baldock, 23, from 14th Gainsborough Scout Group and Daniel Price, 26, of 1st Willingham Scout Group worked together to run the camp.

It followed their decision earlier this year to step up to lead the planning of the year's water activities programme and new adventurous activities for young people in the Gainsborough district.

And it was an introduction to courses run by both the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and the British Canoe Union (BCU).

But more volunteers are needed across the county to run the Scout programme in Lincolnshire.

Fourteen-year-old Scout Jack Bradley said: "This is one of the best camps we have ever had.

"Whilst developing our own skills on the water to the next level, the trust our leaders have in us has allowed us to help develop the younger Scouts, both on and off the water."

Lincolnshire Scouts' county commissioner Robin Wright said: "It's fantastic to see young Scout leaders working together to organise and deliver opportunities for young people to experience adventurous activities.

"The Scout Association’s adult training scheme is nationally recognised by the Institute of Leadership and Management."