The West Yorkshire Scouts County Team and District Teams recently attended the North East Regional Conference at the Glow Centre in Newton Aycliffe. With over 200 delegates in attendance, the event brought together Scout leaders and volunteers from across the region for a day of learning, networking, and inspiration.
The conference was co-hosted by Toby Hammond, County Youth Lead for West Yorkshire Scouts, who played a key role in guiding the day’s proceedings. Toby was also recognised for his contributions to Scouting with a prestigious award, highlighting his ongoing commitment to youth engagement and leadership of the BTEC Awards.
The event kicked off with an inspiring opening speech by Ian Hammond, who shared his ‘Top 10 Reasons Why the North East is Great,’ setting the tone for a day filled with pride and enthusiasm.
One of the highlights of the conference was an interactive session where delegates had the opportunity to ask their questions to Team England representatives, Liz and Richard. This session provided valuable insights into the direction of Scouting at a national level and allowed for meaningful dialogue between volunteers and leadership.
Following this, attendees participated in a range of workshops covering key topics in Scouting, including youth engagement, programme development, and leadership skills. These workshops provided practical tools and strategies for volunteers to take back to their local districts and groups.
A dedicated youth panel later took centre stage, giving young people the platform to share their experiences, aspirations, and ideas for the future of Scouting. Their voices reinforced the importance of youth leadership and empowerment within the movement.
The conference concluded with an inspiring keynote speech from Carl, the Lead Volunteer for the UK. His address left delegates motivated and reaffirmed the core values and vision of Scouting.
West Yorkshire Scouts’ participation in the North East Regional Conference not only showcased the county’s commitment to the movement but also reinforced the vital role that young leaders play in shaping the future of Scouting. With strong representation and recognition at the event, the county continues to make a significant impact at a regional and national level.
