Chair Report 2019

Post date: Jun 03, 2019 4:52:00 PM

Chair Report

1st Radlett Scouts has had a very busy and eventful 12-months. After a rather challenging close to last year I am delighted to report that we have made significant strides forward in a number of areas. Some key highlights are our success in recruiting adult volunteers, winning an infrastructure grant and our plans to celebrate a significant birthday.

Following the sad closure of the Scout Section last year we are pleased to say that a new team of adult volunteers has been recruited, which has enabled the Section to reopen. We are thrilled to welcome Alex as Scout Leader, with James, Gemma and Maddie as Assistant Scout Leaders, supported by Jasmine Poulton. We already have 15 scouts recruited – including 3 girls – and are working towards a full complement at the start of the Autumn term. Our Cubs Section of 10 boys is currently being run by our Group Scout Leader – Jackie – with Sarah as Assistant Leader. However, Sarah will leave in the summer to take up a university place. Our Beavers Section has 18 boys enrolled and is led by Sue with Peter as the Assistant Leader and Andrea as a regular helper. We are very grateful for the support each week of additional parent volunteers to build and deliver an active and mixed program of activities.

Recruitment of new Leaders, however, remains a common theme. We are looking to recruit a new leaders for the Cubs Section. If you would like to hear more about what is involved, please contact Jackie. You don’t need previous Scouting experience as there’s plenty of support on offer and opportunities to learn the practical, leadership and organisational skills, before taking on responsibility as and when you are ready for it.

1st Radlett Scouts will celebrate its 100-year birthday this year. The group was registered on 16 May 1919, and we are holding a centenary celebration at the Scout Headquarters with past members and leaders on Saturday, June 29. We are also holding several joint events with the Radlett Guides, who are also celebrating their centenary.

In October 2018, we were successful in our bid for a £25,000 grant from the Community Investment Fund of Hertsmere Borough Council. Our building is now more than 50 years old and we will be using these monies to install a new fire escape and to replace the windows. We are also installing outside lights and are reviewing the opportunity to decorate the main hall. We believe that this investment from Hertsmere Borough Council endorses our view that Scouting can play a critical role in the development of children by helping to build confidence and self-esteem whilst they learn important life and leadership skills. Scouting also helps children get to grips with the art of team building, experience outdoor adventure and ensure there is lots of fun along the way! 

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the other members of the Executive Committee for their guidance and support over the last 12 months and their tireless work to ensure the group runs smoothly; Jackie, our Group Scout Leader; Gordon our Treasurer and Suzanne our Secretary. A warm hello to Simon who has recently joined the Executive Committee as a parent member.

Lastly, this is my final report as Chair of the 1st Radlett Scout Group. I am stepping aside after seven years as a member of the Executive Committee and five years as Chair. If you are interested in hearing more about the work of the Executive Committee, the responsibilities or how to become involved please do let us know.

Sarah, Group Chair