Newsletter #45

As we get into full swing for the coming Spring and Summer a couple of things I’d like to mention. Firstly, as you plan you AGMs have a think about how will attract parents and young people to the event. Last year I attended some excellent AGMs, some were a part of a camp, others were with BBQs and a café. It is also a good time at the event to do investitures and presenting badges, which all encourage parents to come along. Secondly, as camps and sleepovers are planned, don’t delay in submitting your NAN form online through the Scout Membership System. A special newsletter will be out next week reminding you of what you need to do and some of the recent changes to nights away this year.  

Neurodiversity 

At our recent roadshows, meeting with leaders at groups and district meetings, there has been a strong agreement and demand for support in working and support neurodiversity. I have been in contact with HQ about running a further roadshow workshop with their support. This workshop is likely to be an online workshop. There will be more details soon. If you are interested in getting more information about this workshop please drop me a line. It is likely that it will be a weekday evening, but please feedback if you’d prefer a weekend date.  

District Recruitment Team 

In the previous newsletter I covered the setting up of a recruitment team, open to anyone to join in. it will focus on publicising Scouting in the area to increase the number of volunteers we have supporting all the groups and units in the District. No experience is necessary and the amount of time you dedicate is entirely up to you, all help is appreciated.  

Money Money Money! 

A reminder that there are a number of opportunities for Scout Groups and Explorer Units to apply for grants from four organisations who can support local charities.  

Sustainable Suffolk: Offers access to information on a large range of grant available in Suffolk. You can also sign up to the Suffolk County Council Grants Bulletin on this website. Funding opportunities - Sustainable Suffolk

Suffolk County Council Grants Hub:  Funding for charities, community organisations and social enterprises - Suffolk County Council

Community Action Suffolk: Suffolk firms (accountants, solicitors, architects, marketing agencies, web developers to name but a few) who can provide pro-bono help to charities can be done through ProHelp. More details here. Suffolk ProHelp - Community Action Suffolk

National Grid: They are upgrading the electricity transmission network between Bramford substation in Suffolk and Twinstead Tee in Essex through the construction of a new overhead line and underground cable route. Last year, the Government published new guidance for how projects like theirs can deliver a positive local legacy. The guidance provides a clear framework to enable us to work with communities, so that they can deliver meaningful and long-term social and economic benefits. The project is in scope of the Government’s new guidance, resulting in a community benefit fund in excess of £4 million. Grant will cover 

New buildings, Repairs and Maintenance, Environmental & Building Performance Improvements, Safety Improvements, Accessibility Improvements. And how these might be met - £ funding, technical / professional support, skilled and unskilled labour. Please contact me if you would like more information as this is being co-ordinated by the County. 

Kind regards

Mark Pearson
District Lead Volunteer