Author: Communications

Scouting is Growing in South East Scotland!

As 2024 draws to a close (can you believe how fast it’s flown by?), I’ve been taking a moment to reflect and look back on some of the year’s highlights and how we’ve moved forward with our Regional Strategy. Over the coming months, I’ll be sharing more updates on our progress. This year has seen us make major strides in expanding Scouting’s reach and impact across the region. From reopening historic groups to launching brand-new sections, it’s clear: Scouting is thriving, and it’s all thanks to the incredible dedication of all of you, our amazing Volunteers. You are all awesome. While reflecting, I want to spotlight one of our biggest achievements this year: the impressive growth in Scouting across the Region. A Year of Growth: The Highlights As an actuary in my day job, I always have to include some numbers. 2024 has been nothing short of epic for Scouting in South East Scotland. Here’s a quick snapshot: Two new Scout Groups launched 15 sections opened or reopened, including: 6 Squirrel dreys 3 Beaver colonies 3 Cub packs 2 Scout troops 1 Explorer unit More than 2,100 adult volunteers are now supporting our young people across the Region! This level of growth is massive, and it wouldn’t be possible without our tireless volunteers. A special shout-out goes to our District Lead Volunteers, who despite juggling countless tasks have devoted time to focus on growth and development to help expand and strengthen Scouting in their communities. Your hard work, often unrecognised and behind the scenes, is what makes all of this possible. Thank you! But numbers only tell part of the story. Recently, I have enjoyed the opportunity to engage with many of our new sections and groups. Stories of Revival and Community Spirit Jamie, Ben, Chris & Martin at 9th Braid Investiture 9th Braid Scout Group: Back in Action! Earlier this month, the reopening of the 9th Braid Scout Group at George Watson’s College started a new and exciting chapter in its long history. I had the honour of performing the first investitures, welcoming leaders Ben and Jamie into one of our oldest Scout Groups, having first formed back in 1908 (find out more in their extensive archive). They then had the joy of investing the members of their new Beaver Colony and Cub Pack. It’s been a labour of love to get this group back on its feet, and it’s paying off with over 25 young people now enjoying the opportunities that Scouting provides! Hats off to Ben and Jamie, with vital support from Chris and Lead Volunteer Greig as well as their Trustee Board. 7th Ehsan Midlothian Scout Group: The New Kid on the Block In August, the 7th Ehsan Scout Group invited families in Bonnyrigg to join them for an open day. I was delighted to join them for the day, which was a blast, with kids trying out activities and discovering what Scouting is all about. Big thanks to Richard Fairbairn, District Lead Volunteer for Midlothian, and Zahid, Group Lead Volunteer from the 8th Salaam Braid Group for bringing their energy and passion. Since then, both a Beaver colony and Cub pack have kicked off, and we can’t wait to see this group grow. Further thanks are due to Richard and his district team, as well as the new volunteers in the group for their enthusiasm in getting the new group established. 7th Ehsan Midlothian Scout Group Open Day 20th AlFonj Edinburgh North East Scout Group Learning Day 20th AlFonj Edinburgh NE Scout Group: A Community Hub One of the most inspiring stories this year has been the rise of the 20th AlFonj Scout Group in Niddrie/Craigmillar. Driven by the local Sudanese community’s desire for Scouting, the group, led by Group Lead Volunteer, Fawzia, has brought together volunteers to create a space for all sections—from Squirrels to Scouts. I, along with other members of the Regional Team, were privileged to host and run a Learning day and were blown away by the enthusiasm and energy that the volunteers have for Scouting and supporting the young people. It’s clear this group is going to be a pillar in their community. As well as Fawzia and her team, my thanks to Bill Ramsay as Lead Volunteer for Edinburgh North East and the District team for the work that they have done to support the new group getting started. These stories are just the tip of the iceberg. Even more new sections are set to launch in the coming months, bringing the joy of Scouting to even more young people across the region. The Dream Team Behind the Growth None of this would be possible without the efforts of our dedicated Scouting Support Staff, Nacho and Amy. In just six months, they’ve injected so much energy and creativity into our growth strategy, helping bring more volunteers into the movement. And let’s not forget Calum Harvie, Local Growth Officer at Scouts Scotland, whose support has been invaluable. Together, they’ve been instrumental in helping us reach new communities and offer Scouting to more young people than ever before. Growing for the Future Martin with Adult Volunteers and Young Leaders from across all 7 Districts at Bonaly Explorer Scout Young Leaders are key to our growth as they provide vital support to our sections and also the skills that they learn as Young Leaders help prepare them to lead our Sections and Groups in the future. Despite being heavily jetlagged I was delighted to join 62 of our Young  Leaders recently for a dedicated day at Bonaly where they took part in a wide range of activities and shared ideas which will help shape Scouting in the Region. I would like to thank Allison Gamble and her team of volunteers as well as the team at Bonaly for putting on an amazing day. It was also appropriate that part of the funding for the day came from money raised in memory of Ken Thomson, for whom Growth and Learning were strong passions throughout his

Learning Update – October 2024

Getting Started With Transformation coming in November, it is important that anyone on a pre-provisional or provisional appointment, completes and has validated the current Getting Started modules (GDPR, Safety, Safeguarding, Module 1 and Modules 3 or 4). Validation of these modules will go towards completion of Growing Roots in the new system but must be validated in advance of the Compass Freeze on 7th November. Growing Roots The replacement for Getting Started in the new system will be Growing Roots. Within 30 days of starting to volunteer with Scouts, new volunteers must complete: Safe Scouting Within 6 months of commencing, all new volunteers will need to complete: Who we are and what we do. Data protection for Scouts. Creating Inclusion. Plus depending on your role, one of the following: Delivering a great programme (Section Team Leaders and Members) Leading Scout Volunteers (Lead Volunteers and Team Leaders, except Section Team Leaders) Being a Trustee in Scouts (new Trustees) Information on how current volunteers training maps into the new scheme can be found here follow this link to our website for more info. First Response Volunteers who work directly with young people will also need to complete First Response training within one year of starting.  SES are providing a number of First Response Courses – details can be found here South East Scotland Scouts Training Team Events – 20 Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite Modules 10a and 10b Validation Volunteers who have validated First Response Modules 10a and 10b using an external qualification (i.e. not Scout first response training) may be contacted by the SES First Response Training team over the coming weeks to establish which first aid certificate they used for validation (unfortunately in most cases Compass does not hold this information). Depending on the first aid certificate used, volunteers may be asked to complete a small amount of additional learning to cover all areas of the Scouts first response syllabus. It would be helpful if you are contacted by the SES First Response Training Team in this regard that you respond to the actions requested. Compass Freeze Please note that prior to moving from Compass to the new membership/learning system there will be a period of time (7th to 21st November) when training records are frozen. Only fully validated training will be moved from Compass to the new system. Any modules where volunteers have completed learning but not had this learning validated will not be moved across to the new system. No validation of the existing modules linked to Getting Started/Growing Roots can be carried out during the Compass freeze, In addition, it will not be possible to add validations relating to the current modules to the new system. The learner will need to complete the relevant Growing Roots module e.g. if you have completed Module 3 (Tools for the Role – Section Leaders) but not had this validated before the change freeze, you will need to do the new Delivering a Great Programme module in Growing Roots. Where modules have been completed which are not part of Getting Started/Growing Roots e.g. Growing the Section Module 13, Introduction to Residential Experiences Module 16, if the validation is not done before the Change Freeze, there will be an opportunity to add this learning manually to your learning profile post the change freeze and to subsequently validate this learning. It is important that all existing Section Assistants (who will become Team Members in their sections) are fully briefed by their Groups that when the new system goes live they’ll need to complete three items of learning – Delivering a Great Programme; Creating Inclusion and First Response (over the next 2 years). More details can be found here Please contact your Training Advisor, line manager or ADC (Adult Training) for help with validation. Go Live Key Information As part of our Regional Go Live Support, we have created an GoLive Hub in which you can get the latest critical information with everything coming up over the next few weeks during this critical phase of transformation. I would encourage you all to check these pages out as they will be updated with any and all important announcements and information. Below is a summary of some of the key dates and tasks. Visit our GoLive Hub here  Add any new volunteers or roles to Compass by 24 October Any permit applications will need to be completed by 24 October Check your email address is correct, and accessible. There are restrictions, for guidance check this video If you are doing a nights away between 7 & 25 November, NANs will need to be submitted by 30 October at the latest. All learning, including Safety & Safeguarding must be completed, validated and recorded on Compass by 6 November You will need to register for the new system once you receive the email from UK Scouts indicating the system is live for you. If you do not receive an email by 25 November you will need to let your GLV know so they can follow up. You will need to access the new system as you will need to: • check/update your personal details • access learning courses • submit paperwork for activities and camps e.g. permit requests, risk assessments, NANs etc Watch this Short video about the new digital system. You can ask your Group Lead Volunteer for help You can email South East Scotland go live team on: transformation@sesscouts.org.uk

Adventures, Farewells, and Spooky Thrills: Bonaly’s October Round-Up

Mark Campbell Bids Farewell, But Not Goodbye After an incredible five-year journey, Mark Campbell is stepping down from his role at Bonaly Scout Centre. But don’t worry—he’s not going too far! Mark will remain part of the Active Support Unit, so you’ll still spot him around the site, sharing his passion for adventure. Mark has been a guiding light for Bonaly, leading us through the challenges of the pandemic and implementing a brand-new operating model. His efforts to build and train our volunteer instruction team have been nothing short of spectacular. From crafting engaging programmes to bringing the best out of our volunteers, Mark’s contributions have left a lasting legacy. It’s only fitting that Mark’s final day will be spent running one of Bonaly’s most popular events: the Survival Camp. This thrilling experience, now a cornerstone of our activities, is a testament to his dedication and vision. We wish Mark all the best in his new adventure at Garvald, West Linton, and look forward to seeing him continue to inspire at Bonaly! Celebrating Our Recent Adventures Cubs Nature Awareness Camp A huge shout-out to all the Cubs who braved the great outdoors at Bonaly’s Nature Awareness Camp last month! From exploring food webs to investigating rivers and woodland, the Cubs embraced every moment. They got hands-on, caring for trees, creating nature crafts, and bonding over campfire songs and a thrilling night hike. We couldn’t have done it without the amazing support of The Green Team and our dedicated volunteers. Your hard work ensures these young Scouts leave with memories and skills that will last a lifetime! THANK YOU! Beavers Adventure Day The Beavers brought their energy and enthusiasm to Bonaly this month for an action-packed Adventure Day! They tackled the climbing wall, built dens, zoomed down the grass sledges, tried their hand at archery, and created natural sculptures—just to name a few! Each activity was designed to help them earn their ‘My Adventure Challenge Award,’ and it’s safe to say they all rose to the challenge. Get Ready for the Grand Finale: Explorers Halloween Survival Camp! As the year draws to a close, we’re gearing up for one last epic adventure: the Explorers Halloween Survival Camp on 26th–27th October! Explorers will face the ultimate spooky survival challenge, sleeping under the stars without tents, cooking over open fires, and putting their survival skills to the test. Will they conquer the eerie Halloween weekend? There’s only one way to find out! Join the Adventure in 2025! Want to make sure you don’t miss out on all the excitement next year? Our 2025 events are already in the works, and they promise even more thrills and unforgettable moments to create lasting memories. If you’d like to be added to our mailing list, drop us an email at events@bonaly.org.uk. From all of us at Bonaly, THANK YOU for being part of our adventures. Here’s to new challenges, new friendships, and endless fun in the great outdoors!

Longcraig Update – October 2024

Looking forward to 2025 As 2024 draws to a close we appreciate that a small number of Groups were disappointed this year, due to having a few activity bookings cancelled as we did not have enough of the right kind of volunteers available on the day, or because the weather conditions were such that it was not safe to proceed. Although our 2025 booking system doesn’t kick in until early next year, we’d like to give anyone affected by these disappointments the early bird first choice of an activity slot for next year ahead of time. If your Group falls into either of these categories please get in touch to discuss what options are available for you: please contact  bookings@longcraig.info in the first instance and we’ll help you from there. LONGCRAIG – NET ZERO – how it all works Last month, we announced the fantastic news that the Net Zero project at Longcraig, installed earlier this year, had gone live and was producing enough electricity to enable the Centre to operate. This month, as promised, we’ve got more detail about the systems we installed and how they all work.  Read on! Main objectives The principal purpose of installing the renewables was twofold: To present a ‘greener’ appearance to the Centre and how it operates B) to reduce our annual bill for utilities (mainly electricity) following the exorbitant cost increases inflicted over the past couple of years. This is how it all strings together – Main power generation – Solar PV. The proposed panels were selected to combine a comfortable fit, without crowding, on the available roof space. Initial rough calculations estimated the roof could support around 16kW capacity, the supplier’s selected proposal settled at 15.84kW., based upon an installation of 36 panels each 440W. Generation capacity clearly follows both a daily predicted curve (assuming good sun conditions) and also seasonal variations which can be computed based upon location, roof angle, surrounding shade/shadow and other geographical factors. Bird’s eye view of Longcraig showing the solar panels fitted on the roof Theoretical daily power generation by month. (Ignore the consumption data, based upon standard consumption) Energy Storage: Electrical energy – Batteries: we selected 4 x 5kWh batteries totalling 20kWh which closely emulates the 21kWh expected theoretical consumption. The batteries have a maximum linking capacity of 5, so we retained the option to fit one further one in the future. Four batteries fitted neatly below the switchgear and power inverters Thermal energy – Hot water tank: power can be sent directly to the hot water exchange tank which contains around 300litres of water, which then transfers heat through coils to the domestic hot water outputs. Control of the energy applied to the tank is further enhanced by a Solar Boost unit which actively directs power when it is required or when there is surplus energy available. The Solar Boost box sends excess power to the water tank to heat up the water Direct feed – the PV energy drives directly to any building consumption required during generation hours. Heating – hot water: As part of the facilities upgrade, the incoming water supply was separated as it entered the building. One pipe goes directly to the kitchen, the other serves the cold water tank and thence the toilets and hot water system. The main hot water tank is described above, and supplies hot water on demand for showers, wash hand basins throughout the customer facilities. A separate 30 litre hot water storage device was installed in the kitchen, adjacent to the sinks, which provides almost instant hot water on demand. Whilst not an integral part of the renewables project, this enhancement avoids the need for the kitchen taps to ‘waste’ hot water from the old tank location, amounting to some 30 metres of piping each time the tap is opened. Rough calculations indicate a saving of up to £350 a year based upon energy prices in 2022 through this element alone. Kitchen water heater – right beside the sinks, stores up to 30 litres of water ready to use. Space heating – customer facilities: This is provided by way of an Air to Air Heat Pump, one external pump unit providing heat to 5 separate outlets covering the two main changing rooms, two toilet and shower areas, and the staff facility. The pump unit can generate just under 11kW of heat output, and is powered by the PV generated electricity at a maximum rate of 2.8kW. (an efficiency factor of 3.92) Each of the 5 outlets can be independently controlled for: temperature; fan speed’ horizontal and vertical air flow direction. Heat up time from cold is around 10 – 15 minutes. The external Heat Pump unit neatly fitted behind the toilets One of the five internal heaters Space heating – other areas: Providing Heat Pump heating to the kitchen, workshop and two upstairs training rooms was not going to be possible without installing a complete second Heat Pump installation. Because of the much more sporadic nature of the heat demand of each of the four spaces, it was decided to adopt a much lower cost, but more fuel hungry when in use, installation of Infra Red Heat bars in each room. Once again, each is independently controllable for temperature, and they can be adjusted to optimise the heat output to the areas where people are most likely to benefit. These heaters are quick to heat up, only warm the people in the rooms, and don’t clutter the floors! All of the heating is controllable by phone Apps, which can also set timers, over-rides, and instant adjustment through the WiFi within the Centre. So, what’s the benefits? Our shower areas and changing rooms are now warm! BUT, the warmth also helps dry them out, so they are much less damp and musty; the floors are easier to sweep out and when mopped they dry off in a short time. There is plenty of hot water to service all our showers, and it doesn’t run

Young Leader Day: A Thrilling New Adventure for Future Scout Leaders!

On the 5th of October 2024, an exciting new chapter began for young leaders across the region as they came together for the inaugural Young Leader Activity Day. With 62 passionate Young Leaders representing all seven districts and supported by 23 dedicated adult leaders, it was a day packed with energy, excitement, and plenty of opportunities to learn, grow, and make memories. The adventure began at 10 am, with a warm welcome to everyone. After a brief introduction to the activities planned for the day, the Young Leaders were grouped and sent off to their first activity bases. By mixing up the groups, they had the chance to make new friends, share stories, and learn about what other Young Leaders were doing in their sections. This wasn’t just about skills; it was about building connections across the region. Action, Adventure and Fun at Every Turn! Throughout the day, the Young Leaders rotated through six thrilling activity bases. Whether it was testing their aim at Archery, working together to solve puzzles in Escape, balancing skill and teamwork on the Mohawk Walk, or throwing themselves into the creative challenges of Pioneering, there was something for everyone. They even had the chance to feel the rush of hitting a bullseye in Axe Throwing! In between the action, there was also time for important conversations. The Young Leaders Forum allowed them to discuss their experiences, share ideas, and ask questions. Leaders were on hand to answer queries about the Young Leader Scheme, offering advice on how to navigate modules and missions, and providing guidance on how to achieve the coveted Top Awards. Today has been a fantastic opportunity for our young leaders across South East Scotland to build friendships and share ideas with each other. The feedback they’ve given us as a Youth Team through the young leader forum has been invaluable and will significantly shape how we develop the young leaders scheme in the region George Brightman Youth Lead for South East Scotland Click Here A Day to Remember: Camfire and Celebrations As the sun dipped below the hills, the Young Leaders gathered for dinner, but the day’s excitement was far from over. The real magic began at the campfire, where they were joined by Explorers, Cubs, Scouts, and Brownies who were also spending the weekend at Bonaly. There, under a starlit sky, they sang, laughed, and cheered. The atmosphere was electric as leaders and Young Leaders alike took turns leading their favourite songs, creating an unforgettable harmony of voices. It was also a moment to celebrate achievements. Some Young Leaders were honoured with Top Awards, recognising their hard work and dedication. It was the perfect end to a day filled with adventure, camaraderie, and joy. What the Young Leaders Had to Say Great way to connect with new people, and reconnect with friends from other scouting events. EmilyYoung Leader – Scottish Borders The Regional Young Leader Activity Day was an amazing way to take a break from being at my section and having fun with others that are sharing my experiences HaydenYoung Leader – Braid Really great time, would go again AaronYoung Leader – East Lothian There was a lot of exciting learning opportunities with a great chance to find new friends and develop existing target practice skills through the activities put on Carla & OllieYoung Leaders – Midlothian I really enjoyed meeting other young leaders and catching up with friends I hadn’t seen HeidiYoung Leader – Pentland The activities were great fun and the people there were really enjoyable to be around. I would definitely recommend in the future WilliamYoung Leader – Braid Absolute banging, would recommend anyone to go. CameronYoung Leaders – Scottish Borders Previous Next Who Are Explorer Scout Young Leaders? Explorer Scout Young Leaders are Explorers or Duke of Edinburgh volunteers who volunteer alongside adult leaders in Squirrel Dreys, Beaver Colonies, Cub Packs, or Scout Troops. They’re not just helpers; they’re role models, innovators, and crucial members of the leadership team. If you’ve got a Young Person in your section from school years S2 to S6, make sure they’re registered with your District! This will ensure they have access to all the training, support, and opportunities they need to thrive as Young Leaders. All Young Leaders aged 13.5 to 18, whether in Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, or Scouts, should be members of a Young Leaders Unit, even if they don’t attend Explorers. There are three types of Young Leaders: Explorer Scout Young Leaders: Part of both an Explorer Unit and a Young Leader Unit. District Young Leaders: Dedicated to their role within the District Young Leader Unit, without being part of an Explorer Unit. Volunteer Young Leaders: These are members of the public or Girl Guiding who volunteer with Scouts, often as part of their Duke of Edinburgh or other Top Awards. While they aren’t members of the Scout Association, their contribution is invaluable. Got questions about the Young Leader Programme? Reach out at youngleaders@sesscouts.org.uk and get all the information you need! Young Leaders and Top Awards: The Path to Success For Explorer Scout Young Leaders and District Young Leaders, the sky’s the limit! They can work towards Explorer Badges, Staged Badges, Duke of Edinburgh Awards, and the prestigious Top Awards – Platinum, Diamond, and King Scout Awards. Leaders are encouraged to talk with their Young Leaders about how the programmes they help deliver can also contribute to these achievements. It’s all about recognising their hard work, passion, and commitment. The first Young Leader Activity Day was an undeniable success, and it’s clear that these budding leaders are ready to take on any challenge. They’re building skills, making memories, and forming friendships that will last a lifetime. Here’s to many more adventurous days like this – and to the Young Leaders who make Scouting so vibrant and exciting! Official District Photographs

Official Opening of new Longcraig facilities upgrades

Longcraig Scout Centre: A New Era of Facilities and Sustainability   The Longcraig Scout Centre has entered a new chapter with the grand opening of its upgraded facilities on August 28th, 2024. This monumental project has set a new standard for the Centre, providing modern, accessible, and sustainable amenities that will serve generations of Scouts, leaders, and the wider community. The event saw a fantastic turnout, with many key supporters, including Regional Trustees, ASU members, and representatives from various teams involved in the project. Special recognition goes to James Bowie, the factor from Dalmeny Estate, whose continued support and the positive relationship we have with Lady Rosebery allows the Region to provide young people with Skills for Life in a truly unique and breathtaking location. Hector Black, the architect behind the new designs from Covell Matthews, and the dedicated building team, firstly from Edinburgh Construction, then subsequently including Alan Smith and Michael Robertson from RW Bell and Sean Brown from Sean Brown Plumbing and Heating Ltd , who all made this vision a reality. In the opening speech of the evening, John Cannon, Regional Chair, welcomed everyone to the official opening of the Centre and on behalf of the Trustees thanked the many people who were involved in the project. John also said, “together with the new amenity hub at Bonaly this project at Longcraig has been a significant financial investment from the Region and demonstrates the importance we place on our Centres in offering fantastic outdoor experiences for our young people now and into the future.” Transforming Our Facilities   The new facilities are a game changer, not only for Longcraig, but the thousands of Young People who will enjoy the benefits for years to come. We have replaced outdated infrastructure with state-of-the-art amenities that cater to the needs of all our visitors. Key improvements include: · Modern, Accessible Toilets and Changing Rooms: Designed to be warm, dry, and fully accessible, these new spaces are a significant upgrade from our previous offerings. The changing rooms feature flexible layouts, making them adaptable for individuals or groups, ensuring comfort for everyone who uses them. · Enhanced Showers and Hot Water Supply: A major highlight of the upgrade is the improved shower facilities. Hot water is now available throughout the Centre, ensuring that even on the coldest days, our visitors can enjoy warm, reliable showers after a day of activity on the water. · Sustainability-Focused Heating Systems: As part of our commitment to sustainability, the new facilities have been equipped with renewable energy- powered heating systems. These systems not only help to optimise our energy consumption but also ensure that all areas of the Centre remain warm and comfortable, especially during the colder months. · Accessible Layout and Design: Ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ability, can access the facilities was a priority. The design focuses on inclusivity and easy-to-navigate spaces to accommodate everyone. These upgrades mean that Longcraig Scout Centre is now more equipped to support large groups, diverse events, and even year-round programs than ever before, ensuring our facilities are accessible, modern, and enjoyable for all users. The Team Behind the Project Such a large-scale transformation wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and dedication of many individuals. Malcolm Leckie, the Centre Manager, and one of the project’s key leads, expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved, from Scouting volunteers to the professional teams who worked tirelessly on the design, build, and installation phases. One of the standout contributors, among many, was Ian Harrower, whose determination and leadership helped to steer the project from concept to completion. His efforts behind the scenes—securing funding, organising teams, and overcoming the inevitable challenges, particularly during the COVID pandemic—have been vital. Ian’s quiet but steadfast leadership ensured that the project stayed on track, bringing this bold vision to life. In the true Scouting spirit of co-operation, the Region’s fundraising team led by Janet Taylor included Peter Casebow, representing Bonaly, and Ian Harrower representing Longcraig, coordinated the fundraising efforts for the Bonaly Amenities Hub and the Facilities Upgrade at Longcraig, enabled the combined resources that helped secure the necessary funding for both projects. As a result, Sport Scotland were instrumental in making this project a reality with their generous financial support. Without their backing, along with the Region’s financial contributions, this endeavour would not have been possible. Pushing the Boundaries of Sustainability Sustainability has been a core focus of the project, ensuring that the Centre not only serves current generations but also helps protect the environment for future Scouts. The new facilities have incorporated several key renewable energy elements, reducing the Centre’s overall carbon footprint. Some of these include: · Solar Power Generation: We have installed solar panels that now provide renewable energy to power much of the Centre’s operations. This has drastically reduced our reliance on external energy sources and substantially lowered our overall electricity purchase costs. · Eco-Friendly Heating Systems: By incorporating heat pumps and other energy-efficient solutions, we have optimised the heating provision in key areas of the Centre. This ensures warmth and comfort while keeping energy usage minimal. · Water Conservation Initiatives: With the upgraded hot water supply, the Centre now uses water more efficiently, with measures in place to reduce waste and encourage conservation. Those in attendance got to witness firsthand how these new sustainability initiatives are reshaping the Centre, setting it on a path toward Net Zero energy consumption. Not only do these updates help reduce our environmental impact, but they also improve the comfort and well-being of all who visit Longcraig. 80 Years of combined length of service Award The opening event was topped off with Lead Volunteer for South East Scotland, Martin Elliot presenting not one, but two 40 years Length of Service Awards to two members of the Longcraig Active Support team Fraser and Fiona Simon. What a wonderful way to end the evening celebrations. Everyone at South East Scotland Scouts are so grateful for their tremendous support and dedication, not only to the centre

Co-Warden & Activities Manager Vacancy

A bit about the role We’re looking for someone join our team to both develop our activities and programme whilst acting as co-warden to ensure the centre runs smoothly. Developing our activities, programme and events is our key strategic focus and as such you will play a key role in the future success of Bonaly. Your co-warden looks after the site and facilities. Based in a unique location in Scotland’s capital city and on the edge of the Pentland Hills Bonaly has just benefited from major investment and has: · Two large camping fields that can accommodate up to 400 campers. · Two residential buildings that can accommodate a total of 78 people, plus Ken’s Den a small ‘self contained village’ for 22 people. · A range of Indoor and outdoor activities including a high ropes, low ropes, archery and self-led activities. We believe that amazing things happen in the great outdoors and that nights away can have a powerful, positive impact on young people’s development- empowering them to make a positive contribution to society- and that’s exactly what Bonaly Scout Centre is here to provide. It is where we all strive to achieve our mission of helping young people to do their best by providing great adventures that create memories for life. This role is a great chance to join our leadership team and help to ensure the smooth operations of our centre, you are a core part in delivering great customer service to our customers and making sure our volunteers are working to a high standard. There’s so much to learn at Bonaly and our structure can help you progress and develop into many different areas if you wish to do so. Sound good? Read the application pack and then apply Read the Application Pack for the Co-Warden & Activities Manager role Before making an application please ensure that you’ve read the Recruitment and selection policy and our application of our Equal Opportunities policy, we’d be grateful if you’d also complete the Recruitment Monitoring questions on the Application Form. Closing date for applications: 11:59pm Friday 15 November 2024  Interviews will be held on a date agreed Apply now for the position of Co-Warden & Activities Manager If you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please contact our Chair: peter.casebow@sesscouts.org.uk

Longcraig update – September 2024

First it was PORPOISES – now   DOLPHINS  even  WHALES Having reported in June about porpoises which were sighted near to Longcraig, there has been an abundance of marine life over the summer. A dolphin (now known as Donny the Dolphin) has been sighted numerous times around the bridges, and for Scouts from 1st Craigalmond in Kirkliston, they enjoyed some 45 minutes with Donny the Dolphin playing around their sailing boat and around our safety boat, in the waters between Longcraig Pier and the Forth Bridge one Friday evening in August. Clearly keen to find some new young friends! It is believed there are possibly several of them swimming around the Firth of Forth, sightings have been reported from Cellardyke in Fife to Portobello near Edinburgh, and various locations around the bridges area. There are also reports of sightings of a small whale (unknown variety) in the upper Firth of Forth at the end of August. An image of a bottlenose dolphin Photo courtesy of iNaturalist 2024 Summer Months – July, August, even into September…… Well, they said these are the summer months! And this year, there were sunny summer days – just now and again; there were dull and dreary days, just now and then; but noticeably especially in August, there were days on end with strong winds and gales. Quite unseasonal, but very disappointing for some Groups who had made bookings for activities at Longcraig which had to be cancelled as it was too windy. Why does ‘too windy’ mean we have to cancel some bookings? It’s all about Risk Assessments and therefore one of the things we have to do prior to every activity session on the water. ‘Too windy’ can mean different things for different age groups – what might be super good fun for competent sailors or paddlers can often be ‘just too scary’ for some of our younger sections, or for people who are not accustomed to being in boats, or perhaps in choppy water. And, sometimes, it depends a bit on what the tide is doing. Obviously, tide come in and tides go out (twice every day) but the effects of the tidal flows combined with wind strength and direction can sometimes mean that an activity has to be cancelled, where at other times similar conditions could have a different outcome. We try hard to predict a little bit in advance what the conditions are going to be for people, so we can advise on cancellations before people journey to Longcraig. We don’t cancel activities lightly, but we do take very careful consideration of the various risks that wind, tides, weather conditions, and even the experience of the participants create, and a consensus decision is reached to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all concerned – that’s Young People, Leaders, our own Instructors, even our boats and equipment – they can get damaged too if it’s too windy! If your activity booking has had to be cancelled, we will always work with you to try and reschedule or find another suitable date! Journey to Net Zero – COMPLETED What is Net Zero? The term net zero means achieving a balance between the carbon emitted into the atmosphere, and the carbon removed from it. This balance – or net zero – will happen when the amount of carbon we add to the atmosphere is no more than the amount removed. (source: Energy Saving Trust) Latest update: The final phase of our Net Zero journey was the installation of replacement heating in our two training rooms, using Infra red heaters which can be programmed, or controlled on the sport with remote controls. This is what they look like: Training Opportunities We are trying to make arrangements to run a Paddleboard training /Assessment Day some time soon! The Assessor has not yet managed to come up with a date for this training course, but for anyone interested in finding out more, please get in touch and give us your details so we can let you know as arrangements firm up: getinvolved @longcraig.info Safety Boat Training Course (leads to RYA Safety Boat Certificate) 5th and 6th October – 2 days course. Pre-requisite for this course is Powerboat level 2 and a reasonable amount of logged hours driving powerboats in varying conditions. Powerboat Level 2 Course (one weekend) 2nd and 3rd November This can be a follow up to a Powerboat 1 Course or it can be done directly. It is a necessary pre-qualification for anyone seeking to do the Safety Boat course (see above) VHF Marine Radio Course (one day) Saturday 9th November. This one day course leads to the RYA Short Range VHF Certificate, which is a requirement to operate a Maine Band radio used for communications at sea. These can be used for anything from large yachts, to dinghies, kayaks, even paddleboards and are now seen as just as important a safety measure as buoyancy aids or helmets. The course will be run entirely indoors. It’s also encouraged for anyone working with boats, whether at Longcraig or elsewhere. For information on, or to register an interest in, any of these courses please contact us at getinvolved@longcraig.info Volunteering? As the demand for our activities grows and we constantly seek to expand what we are able to offer, we need more volunteers to help us implement our plans. We now have a super-duper warm up to date activity centre to welcome volunteers into! Ther are two distinct types of volunteers that we can effectively make use of:  TYPE 1: These volunteers are the people who make the centre operate. We have spaces for: Skilled water activity people who could lead activities on the water; Semi-skilled people who have some skills but we can help develop those to a level where they can lead activities; People with some skills to lead our shore-based activities (for bad weather days or to expand the operations of the centre) Volunteers who can help in a number of ways ‘behind the scenes’