Like many around the world, I have been shocked and saddened to see the unfolding events in Ukraine and the resulting humanitarian crisis which has left so many people without shelter, food, water and medical care, things that we all take for granted.
As Scouts our values teach us to act with care, respect, integrity and co-operation and so we recognise we are part of a worldwide family of Scouting and join with the international Scouting movement in standing alongside the people of Ukraine .
During this troubling time it has been encouraging to see so many of our members in South East Scotland Scouts living out these Scouting values and taking steps to help those affected by the war in Ukraine. I had the pleasure of being able to join Meadows Explorer Unit in Braid District last weekend for their Ukrainian lunch fundraiser event where as well as enjoying some great food and great company, much needed funds were raised for a Ukrainian children’s charity.
We have seen many others getting involved, including the Galashiels Cubs pictured above, who held a sponsored silence which raised a brilliant £325 for the Disasters Emergency Committee for Children of the Ukraine. Thank you to all the young people and adult volunteers who have got involved to support Ukraine – it has been inspiring to see. If you are planning an event please let us know and we can promote it across the Region as well as recognise the work of our members.
We also recognise that the current situation can be very unsettling for our members, some of whom have family and friends in the Region. As a result it can be a difficult subject to cover with our young people but if you are interested in doing so I would encourage you to look at the resources provided by the UK Scouts to help you approach the subject with different age groups.
I also found this video helpful. Presented by our very own Graham Coulson, it introduced the Dialogue for Peace programme, which some of you may find interesting.
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As we approach the Easter break, I know some groups and units are preparing for Easter camps – in some cases the first since pre-COVID. Whatever your plans, I hope that all of you have the opportunity to take a well earned break from Scouting and enjoy some downtime. All of your efforts over the last few years to keep Scouting going in the Region have been extraordinary – our volunteers make our Region and that’s why we are in such a strong position so thank you for all that you do!
Yours in Scouting
Martin Elliot
Regional Commissioner
rc@sesscouts.org.uk
South East Scotland Scouts
71 Bonaly Road
Edinburgh
EH13 0PB
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