A Year as County Lead Volunteer: Reflecting on Progress and Looking Ahead
Stepping into the role of County Lead Volunteer a year ago was both a privilege and a responsibility I did not take lightly. Over the past twelve months, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside an incredible network of volunteers, young people, and supporters who all share a common goal: to provide the very best experiences for our Scouts.
This year has been defined by progress, collaboration, and a clear focus on making Scouting accessible, inclusive, and sustainable for everyone.
One of the achievements I’m most proud of is our work supporting the Open to All campaign. By advocating for changes to ensure Scouts do not pay tax on nights away, we’ve taken a meaningful step towards removing financial barriers and ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to experience the adventure and learning that residential trips bring. Access to these experiences should never be limited by cost, and this work has helped move us closer to that goal.
We’ve also made significant strides in strengthening our governance and compliance. Thanks to the dedication of trustees across all levels, we have ensured that every group, district, and the county has reviewed its governance. This is no small task! Strong foundations behind the scenes mean we can focus with confidence on delivering high-quality programmes for young people.
Another highlight has been the increase in the number of King’s Scouts achieved this year. Seeing more young people reach the highest award in Scouting is a testament to their commitment, resilience, and the support they receive from our volunteers. It reflects a thriving movement where young people are challenged, inspired, and encouraged to achieve their very best.
Of course, none of this happens in isolation. It is the collective effort of our volunteers that drives this success, and I remain continually grateful for the time, energy, and care they give.
As we look ahead, there is a real sense of momentum.
The launch of the Place to Belong strategy sets an exciting direction for the future, with a clear emphasis on inclusion, community, and ensuring that everyone feels welcome and valued within Scouting. This is more than a strategy it’s a commitment to who we are and who we want to be.
We’re also preparing for the launch of a new Explorer programme this September. This will bring fresh opportunities, new challenges, and an engaging offer for our older young people, ensuring they continue to develop skills for life in meaningful and relevant ways.
And, after time away, the return of our County Gang Show is something I know many people are eagerly anticipating. It’s a celebration of talent, creativity, and the spirit of Scouting bringing people together in a way that few other events can.
Reflecting on the past year, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved but I’m even more excited about what lies ahead. With a strong foundation in place and a clear vision for the future, we are well positioned to continue growing, evolving, and making a difference in the lives of young people across our county.
Here’s to the next chapter, I for one can’t wait!
