We’re really pleased to share with you, especially since it’s Volunteer Week, that Hugh Bain (Borders District Chair) has been awarded the Bar to the Silver Acorn!
Hugh was awarded the Bar to the Silver Acorn which he received in 1989 after many years of outstanding service in the Scout section in Moray, Midlothian and latterly the Borders where he served as AAC for the Scout section until 1991. Thereafter he took on a series of non-uniformed and supporter roles in parts of the Borders.
Hugh was persuaded to take on the role of Chairman of a very large geographic and diverse district and he did so at a time when there was not a DC in place and some issues to be resolved.
Hugh tactfully suggested moving leaders and supporters into different roles as necessary, giving his local knowledge to ease the new arrangements. He supported a newly appointed and inexperienced DC in her post and was keen to ensure that Scouting in the Borders developedThis has indeed happened and since 2009 when he became Chairman the census figures have increased with a growth of around 50%
This has been as a result of a number of factors but high in the list is Hugh’s tireless working to ensure that the District Executive operates effectively and offers support to Group Executives. His support to the Group Executives has been tailored and a model of good and flexible practice. He has encouraged a wider partnership approach and has successfully brought a number of non Scouting people into key sub committees in the District and encouraged Groups to take a similar approach..
Hugh is recognised as a good chair at meetings allowing comment and interaction and he has used his knowledge and skills to assist other districts by sharing the journey of Borders district with other similar districts.
Hugh’s commitment to Scouting is of a high quality and he has shown a tremendous drive to take Borders District forward and is proof of how leading by example can build a successful result.