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Meet Our Volunteer: Malcolm Leckie, Longcraig

Meet Our Volunteer: Malcolm Leckie, Longcraig

9 Dec 2021

Longcraig is a water sports centre owned and operated by the Scout Association and run entirely by volunteer staff to provide adventurous activies based around the water. The centre operates from a purpose built building situated in the corner of the Dalmeny Estate by Longcraig pier, South Queensferry. Longcraig is also a recognised RYA training centre.

Scouting by the sea happens when an amazing team come together. All are adult volunteers and we are very grateful for their support.

Next in our South East of Scotland Scouts ‘Meet our Volunteer’ series, we’d like to introduce you to Malcolm Leckie, Active Support Manager, Longcraig Scouts.

Please read Malcolm’s Scouts volunteering story below.

Interested to get involved with Longcraig? Or why not find the perfect volunteer role for yourself. More comfortable behind the scenes? You don’t always have to work directly with young people to volunteer with Scouts. Please get in touch.

Name – Malcolm Leckie
Region – South East Scotland; Longcraig Scouts (Regional role), Powerboat Assessor (Regional appointment)
Role – Active Support Manager managing circa 50 volunteers (and I deliver water activity sessions)

Your time in Scouting
I moved from being a Venture Scout when I was 18 to become an Assistant Scout Leader and got my first official appointment in February 1979. In 1987 I got married and moved to New Zealand but got “caught” in 1988 and asked to run the Gordon Scout Troop (Kauri District) in Christchurch. This was a new experience in Scouting with the emphasis much more on outdoor activities but great fun. I left the troop in August 1990 as we returned to the UK in September. At the end of 1991, I was approached to become the Scout Leader for the 108th Colinton (Merchiston now Pentland) Scouts which I took up in 1992 and I continued in this role until 1995. I became involved with Longcraig in 1995 culminating in chairing the opening committee for the new building in September 1998. I officially took over as Centre Manager at Longcraig Scout Centre in April 1999 though had been unofficially been in post since the end of 1998. This role has changed names a few times and currently goes under the name Active Support Manager (Longcraig) but the delivery, responsibilities and the fun are still the same.

Previous Scouts experience

I’ve had the pleaseure of being a Cub, Scout and Venture Scout as I’ve been involved with Scouts since 1968.


Why did I start
It was a natural step when I became too old for Scouts to move into a Leader role in the group I was with. 

What is the best thing you’ve done while volunteering with Scouts?
Gaining new skills by trying out different additional roles as I was involved with the Edinburgh region training team as a supporter (what would be called now an Equipment Manager!) to help the trainers before, during and after the courses and I was a member of the Business Committee and therefore working with business aspects of the region. Also I learnt that business skills transfer back to Scouting to help – IT/Risk management for instance.

Have you learned anything new as a volunteer?
Yes!! I have had the opportunity to learn water skills so I now have permits to take young people out sailing, kayaking, rafting and powerboating. I’m also a Regional Powerboat Assessor.  Working at Longcraig has also taught me how to repair boats and other equipment, not to mention be able to enhance my DIY skills around the centre.

How do you think volunteering helps in your life?
Volunteering provides opportunities to learn new skills, meet new friends and be able to give something back to Scouting where I had so much fun as a young person (many years ago!). It s a good outlet to get away from work pressures and provide value and direction to the next generation.

What would you say to anyone who is thinking of volunteering with Scouts/group?
Why wait! We are involved to provide opportunities for young people to gain new skills and experience things they might not be able to do otherwise. Even a few hours over a month can make a difference – regardless of it being a regular commitment or not. Activity provision may seem like a lot of hard work but it provides a really positive environment for young people. The biggest buzz I get is seeing someone at the end of a session glowing with happiness coming back from the water activity who, at the start of the session, was crying and totally afraid to try the activity.

Click to meet more of our superstar volunteers - ordinary people making an extraordinary difference!

Thinking of becoming a volunteer?

Why not take get in touch to discuss volunteering opportunities. We need your help.

Volunteers make Scouts happen at a national level as well as a local one. From our Chief Scout and Chair of our Board to the incredible volunteers who support young people as leaders and occasional helpers at our local groups, these are just some of the superstars who’ve stepped up to inspire a generation.  

We’re proud that Scouts is a volunteer led movement. That’s where you come in. 

Volunteer roles

GetInvolved @ Longcraig – we are looking for people to join our volunteer team. If you would like to get involved check out our recruitment page.

We are not just looking for water qualified people. We need volunteers to help get the boats out of storage and stowed away at the end of each session and to help get participants on to the water. We also need people who can help maintain and look after our buildings and equipment. Longcraig is supported by a core team of just 35 people, yet we deliver activities almost everyday from May to September. We would relay like to spread the load and hope you can help.

Please see our recruitment page for details.

Make a difference, volunteer today

Enquiry form

Let’s find the right fit for you

Share your contact details and select the opportunities you’re interested in below. We’ll pass them on to the appropriate member, who’ll be in touch shortly:

Enquiry form

 

Trustee Introduction
Have you recently joined an Executive Committee or keen to be part of one? Thank you for taking on this key role to support Scouting in South East Scotland. The Scouts’ Trustee Introduction training provides really useful information on the role(s) with clear objectives broken down into 3 bitesize modules.
 
It’s independent learning, so you don’t have to attend a course to complete it so its flexible to work around your other commitments.
Visit:
Volunteer enquiry form
Contact Us

Meet Our Volunteer: John Cannon, Regional Chair

31 Oct 2021

Trustee Week is 1-5 November 2021. We want to take this chance to showcase the great work our Trustees do and how they make a difference. Thank you to all our Trustees who play a vital role, volunteering your time and working together to make important decisions about Scouts for the good of our young people.

The Regional Executive Committee plays a vital role in the running of a Scouts in South East Scotland. Our Executive Committee makes decisions and carries out administrative tasks to ensure that the best quality Scouting can be delivered to the young people across the Region which is made up of 7 Districts. As charity trustees, Executive Committee members have a number of specific responsibilities that they must fulfil to ensure the effective running of the Scout Region.

The Chair leads the Executive Committee, ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities within the Region. The Chair works closely with relevant Commissioners to achieve the purpose of Scouts through the development of local Scouting, in accordance with the Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association.

All are adult volunteers and we are very grateful for their support.

Next in our South East of Scotland Scouts ‘Meet our Volunteer’ series, we’d like to introduce you to John Cannon, Regional Chair of the South East Scotland Scout Council Executive Committee.

Please read John’s Scouts volunteering story below.

And find the perfect volunteer role for yourself. More comfortable behind the scenes? You don’t always have to work directly with young people to volunteer with Scouts. Please get in touch.

Name – John Cannon
Region – South East Scotland 
Role – Chair of South East Scotland Regional Scout Council Executive Committee

Your time in Scouting
I have been through the movement as a young person, been an Assistant Leader before moving to various Commissioner roles, led a unit to a World Jamboree and moved into training and non-uniform roles as a Chair or member of a Committee. My current role is Regional Chair. And now entering my 5th year as Regional Chair.

I started Scouting as a cub aged 8 and completed all sections, so have been involved as a youth member and as an adult since circa 1969. That’s around 40 years in Scouting as an adult volunteer. In this time I’ve enjoyed a number of roles including:

  • Assistant Scout Leader
  • Assistant District Commissioner Leader Training – Inverleith District
  • District Commissioner – Inverleith District
  • Unit Leader for South East Scotland to World Jamboree 1998/9
  • Assistant Area Commissioner (Edinburgh) Scout section
  • Board member Scouts Scotland
  • Regional Trainer and Training advisor
  • Chair and board member of Edinburgh Gangshow Productions Ltd
  • Camp Chief Clanjam 2011
  • Member of Bonaly Committee
Your Regional Chair role

The Regional Chair position is a non uniformed role and involves chairing the Regional Executive Committee who’s role is to oversee and manage the governance of the Region. i.e supporting the aspirations and ambitions of the Regional strategy as presented by the Regional Commissioner and his or her team, also looking after Regional finances, taking a holistic approach to risk management, and providing an oversight of Bonaly and Longcraig outdoor centres. Each member of the Executive is a Trustee and is either nominated or elected onto the Committee at the Annual General meeting of the Regional Scout Council. The Chair position is nominated by the Regional Commissioner on an annual basis.

The role of a Trustee brings a different responsibility from that of a uniformed role but can be just as rewarding. Individuals often bring skills and knowledge from their career or other life experiences and can also be an excellent way to develop business/governance skills and experience in another context. I enjoy the role as Chair as it has allowed me to bring my business experience and previous Scouting background to the position and be part of developing a sustainable future for the Region.


My favourite time in Scouting
My favourite time in Scouting was leading the South East Scotland Unit to the World Jamboree in 1998/9. I felt it was a culmination of the many things I had done in Scouting up until that point. Bringing together a group of young people and Leaders for the sole purpose of participating at a Jamboree was incredibly rewarding. From selecting the group to preparing them to represent Scotland well, it was great fun. The Jamboree itself was held near Santiago in Chile with home hospitality provided afterwards in Curitiba, Brazil. Attending the biggest showpiece camp in Scouting with over 25,000 people from almost every country in the world has had a lasting effect on me as it showed me how Scouting can teach people so much about friendship, inclusivity and removing imaginary or real boundaries between people. I would truly recommend international Scouting to anyone who can find a way to experience it. Also, what I would say to new volunteers is that Scouting gives you as much in return as you are willing and able to give to it. Even now, after all these years, I am still learning and thoroughly enjoying my experience.


Why did I start
I started Scouting as a cub and I’m told my mother put my name on the waiting list to join when I was born. My lasting memory of Scouting as a child was making friends with people from different schools, many of who are still friends to this day. I also joined the Edinburgh Gangshow as a youngster, making even more friends from across the City. I eventually met my future wife at the Gangshow as she was involved in the show as a Girl Guide Leader. Scouting is very much part of my life, and being invited to become a Leader by my past Scout Leaders was a true honour. I went on to become great friends with them too and now reflect on them as significant influencers and mentors as I developed as a person.

What have I learned
I have learned so much being in Scouting. Volunteering can come in many guises and I have particularly enjoyed the opportunity to move roles, take on new challenges and build on my experiences. Having shared values with those you volunteer with is the very essence of why I have been involved for so long. I have found that working with or for young people keeps you young too and helps you understand how needs change and that Scouting is as relevant now as it has always been. Fun and friendship is really what it is all about and once connected to others in the movement you will always remain so.

How does volunteering help in life
Volunteering opens up new possibilities and stretches you to achieve more. I have found it provides an outlet to the many other things we cope with in life. Memories are made through Scouting that sustain you in challenging times and remind you why you decided to be part of it!

What would I say to others
I would encourage people to find out what Scouting is about, identify the numerous ways you can become involved and find a way to dip your “toe in the water”. I have found variety to be the key to my lasting involvement, so always keep an open mind to trying something new.

Meet Our Volunteers: Sarah Gilbert, Executive Committee Member and Data Protection Lead at the 30th Craigalmond Group

Thinking of becoming a volunteer?

Why not take get in touch to discuss volunteering opportunities. We need your help.

Volunteers make Scouts happen at a national level as well as a local one. From our Chief Scout and Chair of our Board to the incredible volunteers who support young people as leaders and occasional helpers at our local groups, these are just some of the superstars who’ve stepped up to inspire a generation.  

We’re proud that Scouts is a volunteer led movement. That’s where you come in. 

Volunteer roles

There are lots of ways you can get more involved with Scouts as a parent, carer or family member. From helping out occasionally on a family rota or playing a vital role behind the scenes, to stepping up as a leader, our volunteering activities are as varied as you.

We’re talking tidy uppers and tea makers, session planners and Zoom navigators, fundraisers and treasurers, and all round team players to support our young people.

The good news is you shape what you do and the time you have to give. Scouts happens when a lot of us give a little (and no, you don’t have to be a Scout or outdoors expert to volunteer).

Regional Executive Committee and other regional vacancies include:

If you wish to also become a Scout Group Leader working directly with young people we have several opportunities across our Region including in Border District, Braid District, Craigalmond District, East Lothian District, Edinburgh North East District, Midlothian District, Pentland District.

What to expect:

  • A warm welcome
  • Flexibility to get involved in a way that works for you
  • Easy access to training and resources online
  • Friendly ongoing support from local volunteers

No two weeks are the same, but the impact you make is always great.

Make a difference, volunteer today

To find out more about helping out, speak to the leader at your local group or use our volunteer enquiry from which can be found using the option below. Share your details and a volunteer from your local team will be in touch soon.

Enquiry form

Let’s find the right fit for you

Share your contact details and select the opportunities you’re interested in below. We’ll pass them on to the appropriate member, who’ll be in touch shortly:

Enquiry form

 

Trustee Introduction
Have you recently joined an Executive Committee or keen to be part of one? Thank you for taking on this key role to support Scouting in South East Scotland. The Scouts’ Trustee Introduction training provides really useful information on the role(s) with clear objectives broken down into 3 bitesize modules.
 
It’s independent learning, so you don’t have to attend a course to complete it so its flexible to work around your other commitments.
Visit:
Volunteer enquiry form
Contact Us

Meet Our Volunteer: Derek Brown, Chairman of Borders District Scout Council Executive Committee

26 Oct 2021

Trustee Week is 1-5 November 2021. We want to take this chance to showcase the great work our Trustees do and how they make a difference. Thank you to all our Trustees who play a vital role, volunteering your time and working together to make important decisions about Scouts for the good of our young people.

Each Scout Group, District and Region has an Executive Committee that acts as its board of Trustees. The District Executive Committee exists to support the District Commissioner in meeting the responsibilities of their appointment.
 

The District Chairperson is a key role which provides leadership to the non-uniformed and executive element of Scouting in the District. They lead and support District Administrators in accordance with Policy, Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association.

All are adult volunteers and we are very grateful for their support.

Next in our South East of Scotland Scouts ‘Meet our Volunteer’ series, we’d like to introduce you to Derek Brown, Chairman of Borders District Scout Council Executive Committee.

Please read Derek’s Scouts volunteering story below.

And find the perfect volunteer role for yourself. More comfortable behind the scenes? You don’t always have to work directly with young people to volunteer with Scouts. Please get in touch.

Name – Derek Brown
Group and District – Borders Scouts District
Role – Chairman of Borders District Scout Council Executive Committee

Your time in Scouting
I entered Selkirk Scout Hall  as an 8 year old Cub and by the time I joined Scouts I was a sixer. At Scouts, it wasn’t long before I became an Assistant Patrol Leader (APL) and eventually a Patrol Leader (PL). At that time APL and PL’s were included in making up the following terms programmes along with the Scout leader and Assistant Scout Leaders, which made it easier to make your own programmes if you reached the position of Assistant Scout leader or Scout Leaders. The next step was Rover Scouts for 2 years. On leaving Scouts a group of us went on to complete our leadership training which included a residential weekend course.

After that it was Assistant Scout Leader (ASL) for a few years and then approached to be Assistant Venture Scout Leader as our Venture Unit was mixed and the other 2 Leaders were female and a male was needed especially for camping and other outdoor activities. It was also during my time as ASL (when 20) I was made Group Badge Secretary, then the old Selkirkshire, the old Ettrick and Lauderdale and eventually Borders District till present date.

As I am 68 years young that means I have been attached to Selkirk Scouts for 60 years. Think that’s my life story!!

Your Executive role
At District level the Borders has a great Executive Committee with lots of experienced people who are able to lean on each other to discuss any issues to fix them ASAP. My role has been made very easy with the superb team we have. At the moment, District Commissioner, Andy Beaumont is a great ambassador for us and long may it continue as he has brought in new and fascinating ideas.

What would you say to anyone who is thinking of volunteering with Scouts?
If there is anything to say to new volunteers is that mostly what you take out of Scouting all depends on how much you are willing and able to put into it, and even now after 60 years I am still learning about our Scouting family and enjoying my experience.
Meet Our Volunteers: Norrie Allan, Borders District Appointments Secretary

Thinking of becoming a volunteer?

Why not take get in touch to discuss volunteering opportunities. We need your help.

Volunteers make Scouts happen at a national level as well as a local one. From our Chief Scout and Chair of our Board to the incredible volunteers who support young people as leaders and occasional helpers at our local groups, these are just some of the superstars who’ve stepped up to inspire a generation.  

We’re proud that Scouts is a volunteer led movement. That’s where you come in. 

Volunteer roles

There are lots of ways you can get more involved with Scouts as a parent, carer or family member. From helping out occasionally on a family rota or playing a vital role behind the scenes, to stepping up as a leader, our volunteering activities are as varied as you.

We’re talking tidy uppers and tea makers, session planners and Zoom navigators, fundraisers and treasurers, and all round team players to support our young people.

The good news is you shape what you do and the time you have to give. Scouts happens when a lot of us give a little (and no, you don’t have to be a Scout or outdoors expert to volunteer).

Across the Borders District, the current vacancies include:

  • Explorer Leaders
  • Section Leaders – Beavers, Cubs and Scouts
  • Section Assistants – Beavers, Cubs and Scouts
  • Group Scout Leaders and Assistant
  • Active Support
  • Executive Members – Secretary, Treasurer, Chair

What to expect:

  • A warm welcome
  • Flexibility to get involved in a way that works for you
  • Easy access to training and resources online
  • Friendly ongoing support from local volunteers

No two weeks are the same, but the impact you make is always great.

Make a difference, volunteer today

To find out more about helping out, speak to the leader at your local group or use our volunteer enquiry from which can be found using the option below. Share your details and a volunteer from your local team will be in touch soon.

Enquiry form

Let’s find the right fit for you

Share your contact details and select the opportunities you’re interested in below. We’ll pass them on to the appropriate member, who’ll be in touch shortly:

Enquiry form

 

Trustee Introduction
Have you recently joined an Executive Committee or keen to be part of one? Thank you for taking on this key role to support Scouting in South East Scotland. The Scouts’ Trustee Introduction training provides really useful information on the role(s) with clear objectives broken down into 3 bitesize modules.
 
It’s independent learning, so you don’t have to attend a course to complete it so its flexible to work around your other commitments.
Visit:
Volunteer enquiry form
Contact Us

Meet Our Volunteer: Norrie Allan, Borders District Appointments Secretary

26 Oct 2021

Trustee Week is 1-5 November 2021. We want to take this chance to showcase the great work our Trustees do and how they make a difference. Thank you to all our Trustees who play a vital role, volunteering your time and working together to make important decisions about Scouts for the good of our young people.

The District Executive Committee plays a vital role in the running of a Scout District. One role in the Executive Committee is the Appointments Secretary who has a key role in making sure that the appointment process is carried out efficiently. The Appointments Secretary is often the one responsible for moving on new members smoothly through the process, ensuring that approval checks are completed in an appropriate time frame.

All are adult volunteers and we are very grateful for their support.

Next in our South East of Scotland Scouts ‘Meet our Volunteer’ series, we’d like to introduce you to Norrie Allan, District Appointments Secretary for the Borders District.
 

Read Norrie’s volunteering story below.

And find the perfect volunteer role for yourself. More comfortable behind the scenes? You don’t always have to work directly with young people to volunteer with Scouts. Please get in touch.

Name – Norrie Allan
Group and District – Borders Scouts District
Role – District Appointments Secretary

 

Your time in Scouting
I joined the “Wolf Cubs” in Stockbridge, Edinburgh aged 8 and stayed there through the Movement to become a Queen’s Scout. My Leader experience started as an Assistant Leader as soon as I could at the age of 18 having previously been the equivalent of a Young Leader. With the exception of a couple of minor outages when moving house it has been near continuous service in Edinburgh, Kent and now Borders since then. I have enjoyed many previous adult roles as Leader, Commissioner, Leader Trainer, and District Secretary.

Why did you start volunteering with Scouts?
As a Scout/Senior Scout, I was already helping with our Cub Pack on a regular basis at Pack meetings and also at Pack Holidays and thoroughly enjoying the experience. The move to Assistant Leader when I reached 18 was just a natural progression. I started putting back some of what I’d got out.

What does your Executive role involve?
The recruitment, and retention, of adults is vital to the District’s ongoing health. My primary role on the District Executive is to report on trends in recruitment levels and the progress we make in ensuring all new volunteers get to Full Role status as quickly as possible and within the levels set. I also work closely with our Assistant District Commissioner (Adult Training) to report on adult training issues to the Executive on her behalf – our roles on that overlap to some extent anyway. Also contributing to other discussions using my previous experience.

I’m also seen as the “Compass” guru for the District as I am probably the main user of the system. Even as a Leader I was convinced that good administration is the lubricant that makes the wheels to go round and my current role is all about administration!
 

What is the best thing you’ve done while volunteering with Scouts?
How long do you have? As a Leader, probably taking the Cubs away to Pack Holidays and watching them grow as individuals and as a group as a result.

In my present role putting processes in place to keep the appointment wheels turning and under control in the District despite the vagaries of Compass and its predecessor, ever changing requirements and the Covid restrictions.


Have you learned anything new as a volunteer?
It was through Scouting I started to get involved in the training of adults. The Scout Association trained me as a Trainer and I practised my skills on Leader training courses. It was through this experience I latterly came to be the lead business process trainer for my employer which provided me with opportunities for global travel (at their expense!).

How do you think volunteering helps in your life?
See above plus it was indirectly through Scouting that I came to meet my wife! Beyond these, a sense of satisfaction and community.

What would you say to anyone who is thinking of volunteering with Scouts?
Start by finding a role that best matches your life-style and your skills/interests but don’t be afraid to let new challenges in Scouting help you to grow as a person. 

Meet Our Volunteers: Derek Brown, Chairman of Borders District Scout Council Executive Committee

Thinking of becoming a volunteer?

Why not take get in touch to discuss volunteering opportunities. We need your help.

Volunteers make Scouts happen at a national level as well as a local one. From our Chief Scout and Chair of our Board to the incredible volunteers who support young people as leaders and occasional helpers at our local groups, these are just some of the superstars who’ve stepped up to inspire a generation.  

We’re proud that Scouts is a volunteer led movement. That’s where you come in. 

Volunteer roles

There are lots of ways you can get more involved with Scouts as a parent, carer or family member. From helping out occasionally on a family rota or playing a vital role behind the scenes, to stepping up as a leader, our volunteering activities are as varied as you.

We’re talking tidy uppers and tea makers, session planners and Zoom navigators, fundraisers and treasurers, and all round team players to support our young people.

The good news is you shape what you do and the time you have to give. Scouts happens when a lot of us give a little (and no, you don’t have to be a Scout or outdoors expert to volunteer).

Across the Borders District, the current vacancies include:

  • Explorer Leaders
  • Section Leaders – Beavers, Cubs and Scouts
  • Section Assistants – Beavers, Cubs and Scouts
  • Group Scout Leaders and Assistant
  • Active Support
  • Executive Members – Secretary, Treasurer, Chair

What to expect:

  • A warm welcome
  • Flexibility to get involved in a way that works for you
  • Easy access to training and resources online
  • Friendly ongoing support from local volunteers

No two weeks are the same, but the impact you make is always great.

Make a difference, volunteer today

To find out more about helping out, speak to the leader at your local group or use our volunteer enquiry from which can be found using the option below. Share your details and a volunteer from your local team will be in touch soon.

Enquiry form

Let’s find the right fit for you

Share your contact details and select the opportunities you’re interested in below. We’ll pass them on to the appropriate member, who’ll be in touch shortly:

Enquiry form

 

Trustee Introduction
Have you recently joined an Executive Committee or keen to be part of one? Thank you for taking on this key role to support Scouting in South East Scotland. The Scouts’ Trustee Introduction training provides really useful information on the role(s) with clear objectives broken down into 3 bitesize modules.
 
It’s independent learning, so you don’t have to attend a course to complete it so its flexible to work around your other commitments.
Visit:
Volunteer enquiry form
Contact Us

Meet Our Volunteer: Sarah Gilbert, Executive Committee Member

25 Oct 2021

Trustee Week is 1-5 November 2021. We want to take this chance to showcase the great work our Trustees do and how they make a difference. Thank you to all our Trustees who play a vital role, volunteering your time and working together to make important decisions about Scouts for the good of our young people.

The District Executive Committee plays a vital role in the running of a Scout District. Executive Committee members contribute to the running of the District by providing administrative support, strategic direction, compliance with relevant legislation and completion of the duties set out in The Scout Association’s Policy, Organisation and Rules. Executive Committees help ensure that the best quality Scouting can be delivered to young people in the District, and all are adult volunteers.

Next in our South East of Scotland Scouts ‘Meet our Volunteer’ series, we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Gilbert, Executive Committee Member and Data Protection Lead at the 30th Craigalmond Group (Davidson’s Mains) which is part of the Craigalmond Scout District.


Read Sarah’s story below.

And find the perfect volunteer role for yourself. Are you a decision maker, direction setter and general arranger? Are you a do-er and have a go-er? Please get in touch.

Name – Sarah Gilbert
Group and District – 30th Craigalmond Group (Davidson’s Mains) which is part of the Craigalmond Scout District
Role – Executive Committee Member and Data Protection Lead

Your Executive role:
For my Executive role, I support general administrative duties, such as writing the adverts to recruit for new volunteers,   Along with the other members of the Committee I take part in the financial decisions the Exec Committee makes. For example, agreeing our budget for things like the scout hall maintenance and improvements, and the purchase of equipment for the Group. Collectively as a Committee we’re responsible for supporting the strategic goals of the Group, so I take part in Committee discussion to help identify opportunities to engage with the other communities in the local area and make sure the Group is diverse and inclusive in its membership and volunteers. As the Data Protection Lead I’m responsible for keeping the group in line with it’s data privacy requirements, so I’m responsible for the group’s data protection policy and make sure that everyone in the group follows our data privacy commitments.

 

Why did you start volunteering with Scouts?
I wanted my son to join Beavers, but the waiting list was so long that the Group needed new Leaders to set up a new Beaver colony. I became a Beaver Leader so my son and his friends could all join Beavers together.

What is the best thing you’ve done while volunteering with Scouts?
The Group camps have been the highlight.  Seeing all the different age groups interact in activities and games, with the older members teaching the younger one new campfire songs. Like one very large happy family!

Have you learned anything new as a volunteer?
I’ve learned numerous ways to keep young people entertained on a walk in the woods! Most importantly, I’ve learned how rewarding it can be to spend time with like-minded people who have a shared goal of creating great experiences for the young people and giving something back to our local community.

How do you think volunteering helps in your life?
It’s made me realise that I’ve a got a very transferable set of skills, and that I’m happy to have a go at anything and open to learning on the job, from craft to knots and organising games.  It’s also given me a great local network of people who know how to fix things!

What would you say to anyone who is thinking of volunteering with Scouts?
You won’t regret it! Even if you can only spare a small amount of time, you get so much more back from new friends, fun, memories, experiences and a strong sense of community.

Meet Our Volunteers: Scott Goddard, Regional Executive Committee member

Thinking of becoming a volunteer?

Why not take get in touch to discuss volunteering opportunities. We need your help.

Volunteers make Scouts happen at a national level as well as a local one. From our Chief Scout and Chair of our Board to the incredible volunteers who support young people as leaders and occasional helpers at our local groups, these are just some of the superstars who’ve stepped up to inspire a generation.  

We’re proud that Scouts is a volunteer led movement. That’s where you come in. 

Volunteer roles

There are lots of ways you can get more involved with Scouts as a parent, carer or family member. From helping out occasionally on a family rota or playing a vital role behind the scenes, to stepping up as a leader, our volunteering activities are as varied as you.

We’re talking tidy uppers and tea makers, session planners and Zoom navigators, fundraisers and treasurers, and all round team players to support our young people.

The good news is you shape what you do and the time you have to give. Scouts happens when a lot of us give a little (and no, you don’t have to be a Scout or outdoors expert to volunteer).

Craigalmond current vacancies include:

What to expect:

  • A warm welcome
  • Flexibility to get involved in a way that works for you
  • Easy access to training and resources online
  • Friendly ongoing support from local volunteers

No two weeks are the same, but the impact you make is always great.

Make a difference, volunteer today

To find out more about helping out, speak to the leader at your local group or use our volunteer enquiry from which can be found using the option below. Share your details and a volunteer from your local team will be in touch soon.

Enquiry form

Let’s find the right fit for you

Share your contact details and select the opportunities you’re interested in below. We’ll pass them on to the appropriate member, who’ll be in touch shortly:

Enquiry form

 

Trustee Introduction
Have you recently joined an Executive Committee or keen to be part of one? Thank you for taking on this key role to support Scouting in South East Scotland. The Scouts’ Trustee Introduction training provides really useful information on the role(s) with clear objectives broken down into 3 bitesize modules.
 
It’s independent learning, so you don’t have to attend a course to complete it so its flexible to work around your other commitments.
Visit:
Volunteer enquiry form
Contact Us

Meet Our Volunteer: Scott Goddard, Regional Executive Committee

14 Oct 2021

Across South East Scotland we’re proud to be a single family of Scouts. But to make sure everyone gets the support they need, we are arranged in different Groups and Districts across our Regions. The Executive Committee in Scouts is like a board of governors in a school. Basically, it makes sure that the young people get the best possible experience. The volunteers that make up the Committee give their time to ensure that the Group or District or Region continues to meet its charitable purpose: safely and legally. 

Next in our South East of Scotland Scouts ‘Meet our Volunteer’ series, we’d like to introduce you to Scott Goddard who is not only a Cub Leader but also a Member of the Regional Executive Committee.


Read Scott’s story below.

And find the perfect volunteer role for yourself. Are you a decision maker, direction setter and general arranger? We have several Executive Committee positions available – see below.

Name – Scott Goddard
Group and District – 21st Craigalmond (South Queensferry), Craigalmond District
Role – Cub Leader and Member of the Regional Executive Committee
Fun fact – been involved in the Region since c1983

In the photograph – Scott is sitting down on the left of the picture

What made you agree to be on the Regional Executive? 

Over the years I have become better at saying ‘no’ when asked to take on new Scouting roles or responsibilities! However, this time around it felt really nice to be asked, and this role felt like one where I could make a real difference offering a voice for Leaders working hard on the ground as the Region looks to bounce back from a challenging 18 months. I have a genuine passion for us all to be focussed on offering better Scouting for more young people and hopefully I can help the Regional Executive support our growing team of adult volunteers across the region to collectively achieve this.

 

Why did you start volunteering with Scouts?
My experience of Scouting began on my 8th Birthday as a Cub at the 82nd Inverleith, now Craigalmond, back in 1983. (Nineteen Eighty Three) By the time I was 12 I had begun my journey as a leader at Cramond and throughout the last 35 years I have had the privilege of volunteering alongside some brilliant people, so many of whom are still supporting Scouting in the Region today. After a few years when my children were younger I took a step back but kept involved delivering a few modules for the Region’s Training Team. More recently I am enjoying being a Cub Leader in my home town of South Queensferry where my girls are now in the Cubs and Scouts and I am relishing the opportunity to contribute to the work of the Regional Executive.

 

What is the best thing you’ve done while volunteering with Scouts/group?
Volunteering with the Scouts has taken me around the world to Iceland, Sweden and even as far away as China & Mongolia (twice).  Despite these amazing experiences, the best thing I have done is, along with others, maintained for 26 years the annual tradition of offering a week long green field summer camp at the side of a Scottish loch for every Scout in the Troop. Some of the features have evolved and improved over the years but the basic formula of patrol cooking, water activities, hikes & fun competition would be recognised by Scouts and Leaders involved 3 or 4 generations ago.


Have you learned anything new as a volunteer?
I would argue that I have learned more through my involvement in Scouting than I did at school or university combined! I’ve spent the last 15 years running my own businesses and the people who work for me are constantly amazed at how often Scouting comes in useful whether it be a skill or a handy contact.

How do you think volunteering helps in your life?
There was a time when I spent more time volunteering than I did working! Now that I am my own boss I’m afraid it doesn’t quite work that way. I count myself lucky to have an incredibly satisfying job, but the sense of satisfaction from volunteering with the Scouts is very different, not just from working with young people but in being able to help other adults get the same out of Scouting as I have over the years and help the Region grow and support it’s volunteers.

What would you say to anyone who is thinking of volunteering with Scouts/group?
There are several ways to look at this. I expect for some people volunteering today might seem even more daunting than it looked 20-30 years ago with the ever growing list of rules, guidelines, hoops etc to jump through. For others these same hoops act as a reassurance that this is a dynamic organisation with it’s finger on the pulse. Whatever your view, I would encourage anyone to grab the opportunity that Scouting offers adults. There are far more flexible ways to give your time these days too. The hard work and rules to follow are soon far outweighed by the fun and strong lifelong friendships and memories created.

Meet Our Volunteers: Kirstin Worsley, Beaver Leader

Thinking of becoming a volunteer?

Why not take get in touch to discuss volunteering opportunities. We need your help.

Volunteers make Scouts happen at a national level as well as a local one. From our Chief Scout and Chair of our Board to the incredible volunteers who support young people as leaders and occasional helpers at our local groups, these are just some of the superstars who’ve stepped up to inspire a generation.  

We’re proud that Scouts is a volunteer led movement. That’s where you come in. 

Volunteer roles

There are lots of ways you can get more involved with Scouts as a parent, carer or family member. From helping out occasionally on a family rota or playing a vital role behind the scenes, to stepping up as a leader, our volunteering activities are as varied as you.

We’re talking tidy uppers and tea makers, session planners and Zoom navigators, fundraisers and treasurers, and all round team players to support our young people.

The good news is you shape what you do and the time you have to give. Scouts happens when a lot of us give a little (and no, you don’t have to be a Scout or outdoors expert to volunteer).

Regional Executive Committee and Other current vacancies include:

If you wish to also become a Cub Leader we have opportunities across our Region including in Border District, Braid District, Craigalmond District, East Lothian District, Edinburgh North East District, Midlothian District, Pentland District.

What to expect:

  • A warm welcome
  • Flexibility to get involved in a way that works for you
  • Easy access to training and resources online
  • Friendly ongoing support from local volunteers

No two weeks are the same, but the impact you make is always great.

Make a difference, volunteer today

To find out more about helping out, speak to the leader at your local group or use our volunteer enquiry from which can be found using the option below. Share your details and a volunteer from your local team will be in touch soon.

Enquiry form

Let’s find the right fit for you

Share your contact details and select the opportunities you’re interested in below. We’ll pass them on to the appropriate member, who’ll be in touch shortly:

Enquiry form

 

Trustee Introduction
Have you recently joined an Executive Committee or keen to be part of one? Thank you for taking on this key role to support Scouting in South East Scotland. The Scouts’ Trustee Introduction training provides really useful information on the role(s) with clear objectives broken down into 3 bitesize modules.
 
It’s independent learning, so you don’t have to attend a course to complete it so its flexible to work around your other commitments.
Visit:
Volunteer enquiry form
Contact Us

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