Taking Scouting into Hospital
As Lead Volunteer for South East Scotland, inclusion has always been an important priority so I am delighted to share an update on one of our key initiatives as we work towards our Strategic aim to actively reduce barriers to membership to help make Scouting in the Region representative of our wider communities. This November, South East Scotland Scouts will launch an exciting new pilot programme bringing the adventure, friendship and fun of Scouting into the heart of the Edinburgh community – the hospital ward. For six weeks across November and December, a trial of “Scouting in Hospitals” will run at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People in Edinburgh (better known as the Sick Kids), offering young patients the chance to enjoy a taste of Scouting during their stay. The sessions will be open to children and young people staying in the hospital, giving them a chance to take part in creative challenges, hands-on activities, team games, and badgework – all tailored to the hospital environment and each child’s abilities. The programme aims to bring moments of normality, confidence-building, and laughter to young people who may be facing difficult or uncertain times. It has been developed in partnership with the Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity to ensure sessions are safe, accessible and inclusive. This is what Scouting is all about – reaching young people wherever they are and giving them the chance to shine. Even in hospital, young people deserve opportunities to try new things, build friendships, and feel part of something bigger. This programme is about hope, resilience and creating smiles. Volunteers Needed – Join Us in Making a Difference To make this project a success, South East Scotland Scouts is calling for enthusiastic adult volunteers to help deliver sessions as part of a small team. No prior Scouting experience is needed – just kindness, enthusiasm and a willingness to support young people. Volunteers will: Help run fun and engaging activity sessions Support children of different ages and abilities Receive full training and safeguarding support Be part of a pioneering new Scouting initiative Whether you can commit weekly or help occasionally over the six-week pilot, your time could make a real difference to a child in hospital. If you’d like to get involved, or simply find out more, please email hello@sesscouts.org.uk. Together, let’s bring Scouting’s spirit of adventure, resilience and community to where it’s needed most. Thanks for all that you do to support Scouting in our Region. Martin ElliotLead VolunteerSouth East Scotland Scouts
Celebrating The Positives Amidst The Challenges
South East Scotland and Scouts Scotland Volunteers at Gilwell Reunion Welcome back to a new term of Scouting. I hope that you all managed to enjoy some well deserved downtime over the Summer and that you are excited for what the rest of the year has in store for Scouting in South East Scotland. I recognise that this year has presented several challenges for Scouting in the Region – with continued teething problems with the new membership system, the new Safety learning, the ongoing challenges of leader recruitment and retention and the growing challenge of meeting places all affecting the time that we can spend doing what we Scout for – to provide opportunities to young people across our Region and beyond. As Lead Volunteer I want to thank all of you for your continued support and the constructive and positive attitude that you taken to ensure that young people across the Region continue to enjoy the experiences that only Scouting can provide. It is because of this that we have so many positives to celebrate from 2025: Our first Regional Gala was a great success with over 2000 people visiting Bonaly over the weekend and seeing many of the things that make South East Scotland Scouts so successful – in particular our amazing volunteers and young leaders. My thanks to Stewart Nicoll, Dave Siddle, Ross Nicoll and their team for the huge amount of work that went into the event. Our first Regional Explorer Belt to Norway has seen all the participants be awarded their belts at a recent joint event at Bonaly with Swedish Scouts doing their own expedition. Well done to Alex, Cliona, Greg and Scott and my thanks to the Regional Programme team – in particular Laura Haley, Colin Liddle and Allison Gamble for leading this. Regional Explorer Belt Presentation South East Explorer Expeditions (SEEE) continue to provide opportunities for young people to complete Expeditions towards their Top Awards. Thanks to David Newton, John Buchanan and the SEEE team for the considerable work that goes into supporting these opportunities. Our Region continues to grow! After amazing growth in membership at the 2025 census of 3%, we have continued to see sections start or restart. I was delighted to join the 9th Braid (George Watson’s College) Scout Group, which reopened its Scout Troop this month, for their AGM and present Commendation Awards to Chris, Ben and Jamie in recognition of the work that has gone into reopening the group. I was also delighted to join our newest Group the 7th Midlothian (Ehsan) group for a brilliant community day as they prepared to open their Scout Troop. With new Squirrel Dreys planned across the Region and at least 3 Beaver Colonies planning to reopen, it is incredible to see more young people getting to enjoy Scouting in South East Scotland. If you are thinking about new or reopened provision or are looking for help strengthening your existing sections please reach out to our Scouting Support Staff Nacho and Amy Our Regional Centres continue to thrive and welcome visitors from our Region and beyond. It was a privilege to be invited to join 100 Years of Bishopton Summer Camp at Bonaly Scout Centre for their opening ceremony and to have the opportunity to welcome them to South East Scotland.The Camp saw young people and volunteers connected to the Bishopton group come together with members of Austrian Scouting, which the group has a close connection to, to celebrate the group’s centenary. It was also great to have the opportunity to speak with Maximilian Müller, Bundesvorsitzender or Chair of Pfadfinder und Pfadfinderinnen Österreichs, to compare the challenges and successes our two organisations face. I hope as we start the new term that you have the opportunity to reflect on the positives in your own Scouting and to celebrate them. We would love to hear your stories so reach out to communications@sesscouts.org.uk if you have a Scouting success story to share. Thanks for all that you do to support Scouting in our Region. Martin ElliotLead VolunteerSouth East Scotland Scouts
Thank You From SE Scotland Region
At Summit25 in January Presenting a Chief Scout’s Silver Award at Musselburgh Presenting Angus with his Coronation Medal Getting to meet Owls with Cubs at 10th Craigalmond Joining volunteers and young people for Pride Edinburgh 1st Midlothian at Gorebridge Gala Day Braid Chair and Regional Trustee Steve Gamble receiving his Silver Acorn Award Melrose Scouts win fancy dress Cup at the Melrose Festival As we come to the end of another eventful year, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your incredible commitment to Scouting across South East Scotland. Whether you’ve been leading weekly meetings, supporting adventurous activities, helping behind the scenes, or offering a listening ear — your efforts have made a real and lasting impact on the lives of young people. Your time, energy, and passion are what make Scouting such a positive force in our communities. This year has brought its share of change, not least the transition to the new membership system. We know it hasn’t always been easy, and we’re deeply grateful for the patience, resilience, and good humour you’ve shown as we’ve navigated this together. Despite this we have continued to work towards our #SkillsForLife strategy with: a 3% growth in membership, with 5 new sections opening in the first half of this year alone continuing focus on being more inclusive, being shaped by young people having a positive impact on our communities We have a lot to look forward to. In particular I hope to see many of you at the Regional Gala on 6th and 7th September. It promises to be a unique and memorable event with hundreds of members from across the Region taking part. As the summer approaches, I hope you find time to rest, recharge, and reflect on all you’ve helped achieve. You’ve earned it. On behalf of the South East Scotland Scouts team — thank you again, and enjoy a very well-deserved break. Yours in Scouting,Martin ElliotLead Volunteer, South East Scotland Scouts
Many Voices, One Movement: Inclusion in Focus
As we are currently in Mental Health Awareness month and approaching Pride month in June, it is a time when we see inclusion given a higher profile as companies and organisations display rainbow colours and feature diversity more prominently. However, in South East Scotland this isn’t just something that we focus on for a month, it is a focus all year round. When I became Lead Volunteer 4 years ago I made it a key priority to make Scouting in the Region more representative of our communities and to remove barriers that prevent anyone being able to be part of Scouting. Our latest Census figures show that we are becoming more representative of our communities (see charts below) – in particular a sizable improvement in our gender mix. Our diversity as a Region should further improve with the establishment of our first Ukrainian Scout Group and Scouting in Hospitals. 2025 Census Data for South East Scotland Scouts How do we build on our progress? I could finish my update here with our positive progress – which is only possible due to the hard work of volunteers and staff across the Region and should be celebrated – but we have to recognise that there is still work to do and that the progress that we are seeing is not the same across the Region. I am disappointed when I hear volunteers in the Region downplaying the importance of inclusion or in some extreme cases even fighting against it so I want to be clear that in South East Scotland Scouting is for all young people and volunteers irrespective of their gender identity, their race, their sexuality, their background or their additional support needs. Therefore, if you are actively preventing this by not allowing girls in your group or putting up obstacles to particular communities being part of Scouting then you probably need to consider whether Scouting is the right organisation for you. We recently gathered officebearers from all 7 districts for a workshop to look at areas of focus and how the Region and others can support with this. I was delighted that Alison, our Regional Inclusion Lead, was invited to present at it, celebrating some of the success that we have had but also sharing some ways that districts (and groups) can help to improve inclusion locally. How We can Support Inclusion Champion Inclusion as a Core Value Make inclusion part of your vision and strategic priorities, ensuring it is reflected in all decisions and plans. Lead by example, ensuring the District/Group is welcoming, respectful, and representative of the communities the it serves Resource Inclusive Practice Provide funding for inclusion-related needs, such as: Transport for young people who face barriers getting to meetings. Additional equipment or adaptations for young people with disabilities. Uniform grants or fee subsidies for families in financial hardship. The Regional Uniform Bank could help. Support adult volunteers with training or materials that promote inclusive leadership and understanding of diverse needs. Create an Inclusive Culture Encourage inclusive language, imagery, and storytelling in communications, events, and materials. Celebrate diversity through events, heritage months, and visible support for LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, disabled, and ethnically diverse members. Promote inclusive policies and practices—for example, allowing flexible volunteering, being sensitive to cultural and religious needs, and promoting gender-inclusive facilities Improve Access and Representation Identify underserved communities in the District and support outreach to schools, faith groups, or community organisations that serve them. Remove practical barriers to participation, such as inaccessible buildings, inconvenient meeting times, or complicated administrative processes. Encourage diversity in leadership by proactively welcoming adults from all backgrounds and supporting their development into trustee or leadership roles. Monitor and Evaluate Progress Gather data (where appropriate and legal) on demographics of volunteers and young people to understand where inclusion can be improved. Seek feedback from volunteers, parents, and young people about their experiences—especially those from minority or marginalised groups. Act on findings to remove barriers and adjust practices. Ensure Safe and Welcoming Spaces Challenge discrimination or exclusionary behaviour, whether overt or subtle Ensure safeguarding policies are inclusive and protective of all identities, including LGBTQ+ young people and those with additional needs. Support Inclusive Governance Review trustee recruitment practices to ensure a broad pool of people are encouraged to join the board—including younger trustees, parents, and people from diverse backgrounds. Provide DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) training for all trustees so they understand their role in fostering inclusion. Collaborate with Others Work with Regional and National Inclusion leads for support, resources, and training. Share good practice with other Districts or Groups to learn from their experiences and inspire improvement. Celebrate Success Highlight stories of inclusive Scouting in newsletters, events, and awards. Recognise volunteers who go above and beyond to create welcoming spaces for all. If you have questions or would like support with any inclusion areas please reach out to Alison at alison.robertson@sesscouts.org.uk The Inclusion Team is working on a number of initiatives to support inclusion in the Region: Let’s Talk About Series – Covering key inclusion topics Edinburgh Pride – I am really excited that South East Scotland Scouts will be attending Edinburgh Pride again this year. As I mentioned earlier, we have made great progress in Inclusion and I would like to thank all of you for the part that you have played in making this possible. It is only due to this work that we are in the position to develop our work in this area further.
Let’s Talk About Mental Health
The next Let’s talk about…, run by the inclusion team, is on Mental Health. Martin Elliot will be leading this session where you can hear more about supporting people’s mental health. Please use this form lnked below to sign up: https://forms.office.com/e/BBf1a0SAM0 or contact:Alison.Robertson@sesscouts.org.uk Please feel free to share with anyone who you think may be interested!
Heading for the Summit
In January I joined a delegation of volunteers and staff from the Region and Scouts Scotland to attend the Summit25 National Scout Conference in Birmingham. Bringing together more than 700 volunteers from across the UK and overseas, the event celebrated what has been achieved with our Skills for Life Strategy as we enter its last year whilst also reflecting on what we have learned from the challenges that Scouting has faced. The event also allowed us to ensure that the views and priorities of our Region feed into the next strategy which will take us from 2026 – 2034, whilst also challenging us to think about what Scouting may look like in 10 years time. Our Next Chapter As we embark on a new chapter in Scouting, it’s important to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re headed. Scouting in South East Scotland has always been about empowering young people, fostering adventure, and building a strong sense of community. But as we look to the future, we must also embrace new opportunities, challenges, and ways of working to ensure that Scouting continues to thrive in an ever-changing world. The needs of young people are evolving, and Scouting must evolve with them. Across South East Scotland, we are already seeing innovative approaches to Scouting activities, from incorporating new technologies into badge work to offering flexible meeting times that accommodate busy family schedules. These small but significant changes reflect our commitment to staying relevant and engaging to today’s youth. Moving forward, we want to encourage groups to think creatively about how they deliver Scouting. Whether it’s exploring new outdoor spaces, integrating STEM activities into programmes, or partnering with local organisations to expand opportunities, there are countless ways we can ensure Scouting remains dynamic and exciting. Growing our Movement One of the key priorities for the future is growth. Scouting in Scotland has seen incredible expansion over the years, but there is always room for more young people to join the adventure. Our South East Scotland Region is full of untapped potential—communities where Scouting could make a significant difference. By working together, we can grow our numbers and extend the life-changing benefits of Scouting to even more young people. Equally important is recruiting and supporting more adult volunteers. Leaders, assistants, and supporters are the backbone of Scouting, and ensuring they feel valued, trained, and equipped for success will be a major focus in the years ahead. Sustainability and Inclusivity As Scouts, we have a duty to protect the planet and foster inclusivity within our communities. Sustainability is a key part of our future. By encouraging eco-friendly practices and engaging young people in environmental initiatives, we can do our part to combat climate change and promote stewardship of our natural world. I have made no secret of the importance I place on inclusion – and going forward this will remain at the heart of everything we do. Scouting is for everyone, regardless of background, ability, or circumstance. Our Region is committed to breaking down barriers, ensuring that as many young people as possible have the chance to participate and thrive. Building the Leaders of Tomorrow Finally, as we look to the future, let’s remember that today’s young people are tomorrow’s leaders. Through Scouting, we’re not just teaching practical skills and fostering friendships—we’re helping to shape compassionate, resilient, and capable individuals who will make a positive impact on the world. By providing opportunities for leadership, teamwork, and personal growth, we’re equipping young people with the tools they need to navigate an uncertain future with confidence and purpose. A Shared Vision The future of Scouting in South East Scotland is bright, but it depends on all of us. Together, we can build on our proud legacy, embrace change, and create an even stronger movement for generations to come. Whether you’re a leader, volunteer, parent, or young person, your role in this journey is vital. Let’s work together to ensure that Scouting continues to inspire, challenge, and transform lives across our region. Here’s to the next great adventure in Scouting!
Regional Uniform Bank
We are really excited to launch our new uniform bank as part of our goal to make Scouting more accessible to young people. As a Region, we are opening a Uniform Bank, which will gather and re-distribute uniforms and badges free of charge to young people who need them the most. The uniform bank has been made possible through a grant from the Region’s Inclusion Fund. Along with the uniform, the young person will also receive the badges they need to begin or continue their journey with us. George Brightman, Regional Youth Lead said “As a Region it’s essential that we provide support to young people who cannot access Scouting for financial reasons. I am absolutely delighted that the Regional Inclusion Team has agreed to support this initiative from the Youth Team!” If you have any old uniforms you’d like to donate or want to request a uniform on behalf of a young person, please email: uniform.bank@sesscouts.org.uk
A Youth Led Update
Continuing our review of our progress towards our Regional Strategy objectives, this month looks at Youth Shaped, so Martin has handed over his usual update to George, our Regional Youth Lead. As we approach the end of this year, it’s important to reflect on what an amazing year we’ve had as a Region. Over the past twelve months, we’ve opened 2 new Scout Groups within communities where Scouting isn’t well represented and we’ve also re-opened or opened 15 new sections! It’s been amazing to watch the Region grow and develop since I started as Regional Youth Lead in February this year. Celebrating our Young People More importantly, with our Youth Shaped Strategy due to launch early next year, we’ve begun to celebrate more young people for their achievements. Recently, myself and the Youth Lead for Braid, Alex, had the opportunity to present Commendation Awards to Lois and Luke for their support of the Region at various events and for their support of additional support groups undertaking DofE! We also ran a forum with Young Leaders from across South East Scotland at the recent Young Leaders Day, allowing us to better understand the support we can provide to them in their important role. Growing our Regional Youth Team We’ve also been growing our Youth Team, with nearly a full team of District Youth Leads. If you’re aged 18-24 and are interested in becoming the Youth Lead for Craigalmond, Edinburgh North East or East Lothian, contact youth.lead@sesscouts.org.uk or get in touch with your Lead Volunteer. As a Youth Team, we had a fantastic time watching the Gang Show last month as well as representing the Region at the 25th Anniversary of the Scottish Parliament. As Youth Leads, we’re here to promote Youth Shaped Scouting whilst advocating for more opportunities for young people. If you’d like to know more about our work or have one of us visit your section to work with your young people, please do get in touch (youth.team@sesscouts.org.uk). With the new digital system having just gone live, please do make sure that you learn your way around it and complete any outstanding actions that you have. If you have any questions, please get in touch with your Lead Volunteer or the Regional Go Live Support Team (transformation@sesscouts.org.uk) Have a great Christmas and a very happy New Year!
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
Keeping Scouting Safe in South East Scotland
I hope that all of enjoyed a well-deserved break over the summer. Whilst the Regional Team took some downtime, that didn’t mean that Scouting stopped with a lot of work going on behind the scenes to support Scouting’s ongoing commitment to Safe Scouting for all our members. Keeping young people safe is our top priority in Scouts. Following on from the inquest into the tragic death of Ben Leonard and the UK Scouts’ response to HM Coroner’s Prevention of Future Deaths, all Regions were asked to perform a thorough self moderation exercise. This covered the following areas: Adventurous Activity Permit Scheme Nights Away Training Visits Abroad Safety Support Following on from this exercise a set of prioritised actions have been identified. I am pleased to say that the moderation exercise highlighted the good work already going on to support Safe Scouting within the Region and my thanks go to those who supported this – in particular Mike Treanor, Bruce MacDonald and Simon Innes. However, we will not be resting on our laurels and the exercise highlighted that there are a number of areas where we could improve and Mike Treanor, Volunteer Development Lead, is working with the Regional Team and Regional Trustee Board to look at how we take these forward in the coming months. There are a number of ways that you can support Safe Scouting locally: Ensure that your Safety and Safeguarding mandatory training are up to date. If they have expired or are about to expire in the next couple of months please complete ASAP and get your Training Adviser or Lead Volunteer to validate on Compass. Ensure that Risk Assessments are in place and documented for all Scouting activities. Advice on how to perform Risk assessments is available here Ensure that appropriate First Aid cover is in place. Following the cessation of previous First Response Rules on 30th November 2024, all adult volunteers in relevant roles will need to hold a current Module 10A and 10B to act as First Aid cover on Scout activities with the date on which Module 10A is completed triggering the three-year renewal date of the learning (this used to be Module 10B). If you own premises, make sure that all required safety precautions are in place. You might find the Scouts Premises Audit Ensure that your Group or District’s Risk Register is up to date. Our Regional Leadership play a key role in supporting Safe Scouting and there have been a number of changes over the Summer: Robert Anderson has been appointed as the new Lead Volunteer for Braid District, taking over from Judith Wood. I look forward to working with Robert in his new role and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Judith for the huge amount of work that she has done as Lead Volunteer, leading the district over the last 6 years, steering the district confidently through some challenging times. I would also like to thank her for the invaluable support and advice that she has offered me and I am pleased that she is staying involved in Scouting in the District. Hilary Cartwright has completed her term as Lead Volunteer for East Lothian. I would like to thank Hilary for all that she has done to support Scouting in East Lothian not just in her five years as District Commissioner/Lead Volunteer but in a variety of roles over the years. Hilary’s enthusiasm for Scouting comes through in everything that she does and this was particularly evident during the challenges of COVID. I am delighted that Hilary is staying involved in Scouting in the District and am grateful for her continued advice and support. Until a new Lead Volunteer is appointed, I will serve as acting Lead Volunteer for East Lothian. Colin Liddle has been appointed as Regional Programme Lead. Colin, is also one of the Lead Volunteers in Pentland district, and is looking forward to working with the Programme team and looking at how we as a Region can better support them in the important work that they are doing. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the Programme team for the way that you have continued to ensure the delivery of programme support whilst this position is vacant – we are fortunate to have a strong Programme Team in the Region and with the support of Colin’s leadership I am confident we can continue the positive momentum that they have built.