Greater London South West Scouting

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Focus on GLSW

Scouting in Greater London South West February 2006

County Commissioner’s Message

Two months into the New Year and well into a new programme, I expect thoughts about what to do when lighter evenings come on the scene are already in mind. Scouting is famous for providing the ‘out’ in its activities, and all the recent research points to the fact that it is one of the most important factors as to why young people join our movement. The biggest being of course camping.

So I urge you in the coming months, don’t disappoint your membership, and if possible, whatever your section, plan for trying out something new out of doors. In the process, make sure that you, your members and your leadership team have fun doing it.

I would also like to know about it. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best wishes for your Scouting, Roger

Development Update

Well, here we are again at census time and I must admit I have my fingers crossed again this year. In the 2005 census the County showed a small increase in membership, the first increase for many years. Although not major it terms of real numbers, it was none the less a significant reversal of the downward trend of the last decade. Not only that, we were the only London county to increase its membership and I believe this a clear indicator of the benefits of our pro-active approach to development.

Over the last twelve months a considerable amount of work has been done by the Districts, the County Team and the Development Project to promote growth and development and I think it’s fair to say we are approaching this year’s census from a position of strategic strength. ‘Thinking Differently about GLSW’, the County’s strategy for growth, has given Districts and the County a new and much more focused direction for development and, although at this stage it’s hard to say if we will actually achieve a further increase in our membership this year, we are certainly working towards building a stronger, sustainable future for the members of GLSW.

One of the many development initiatives on the horizon is ‘Join the adventure’. Saturday 18th March is a key date in this year’s diary and again shows the commitment of the County to continue to look at new and different ways to recruit members. Volunteers across the county have already spent a considerable amount of time preparing for this event and even larger numbers of hard working volunteers are giving up another day of their valuable free time on the 18th March to ensure this adult recruitment initiative is a success. Major venues and shopping centres across the County will be hosting bases to spread the Scouting message and hopefully bring new members on board. Our key focus for this event is to recruit new adult members for a wide variety of roles within Scouting. We also know a high profile event such as this will bring in new young people, so it’s important everybody is ready to face the challenges and the benefits of this year’s foremost recruitment opportunity. Check the County web site for resources to support ‘Join the adventure’.

And just a quick reminder about our new scheme; we hope to promote Explorer Scouting using informal lunch time ‘drop-in’ sessions in secondary schools. If you work or teach in a secondary school in GLSW and can help us get a foot in the door we’d like to hear from you. (I’ll liaise with DESC’s and local

If you want to know more about any of our current development initiatives, please check the county web site (www.glswscouts.org.uk/development) or contact me directly. Don’t forget there are a large number of resources on the development pages of the county web site to help you promote and develop Scouting.

Jo Launchbury Assistant County Commissioner (Development)

Bushcraft Courses

Twelve places are available on each course and costs are £30 per person (basic) and £50 per person (advanced) and they are open to any Explorer, Network member or Leader.

Sat 1st – Sun 2nd April Basic Bushcraft Skills
Mon 3rd – Fri 7th April Advanced Bushcraft Skills
Sat 8th – Sun 9th April Basic Bushcraft Skills
Mon 10th – Fri 14th April Advanced Bushcraft Skills (subject to demand)
Sat 27th – Sun 28th May Basic Bushcraft Skills
Sat 23rd – Sun 24th September Basic Bushcraft Skills

Places can be booked online at www.magellan-explorers.org.uk/bushcraft.html or by calling Graeme Wood on 07860 465769.

Messing about in boats... An invitation to all members of GLSW

14th Richmond ‘Viking’ Sea Scouts invite you to bring your Unit, Troop, older Cubs or fellow Leaders out for an evening’s rowing on the River Thames.

Our superb traditional boats are suitable for training, casual rowing or racing and can be easily handled by young or old, novices or experts, able bodied or disabled. Life jackets and instructors are provided. All instructors are experienced Scout Leaders working within the safety and authorisation requirements laid down in POR.

Rowing evenings can be arranged on most nights of the week from April to September (depending on availability of instructors). Rowing evenings are ‘just for fun’ but can also be run as badge courses over a number of weeks for the ‘Pulling’ and ‘Basic Nautical Skills’ badges. We can also run some weekend sessions and residential badge courses with overnight accommodation provided in the 14th Richmond headquarters.

Evening sessions are between one and two hours on the river depending on sunset times, the tides and the age and ability of those rowing. These sessions start and finish at Richmond Bridge.

A donation of £2.50 per person per evening session is all it costs, so why not come and spend an evening on the river with the 14th Richmond ‘Viking’ Sea Scouts? For further information or to request a booking form please contact Vic Griffiths: vicgriffiths@totalise.co.uk or Peter Hapgood: peterhapgood@blueyonder.co.uk

Fellowship

Wendy, my niece, is a fundraising manager for a charitable trust that supports homeless people. In November 2005, she was responsible for an overnight sponsored sleep-out that raised £4,000 for the charity. With eighty participants involved a sizeable support group was required. Among them was a team to provide 6.00am breakfast. Realising at the last minute that no one on her staff had confirmed the arrangements, in panic she rang her contact. “Oh, that’s Okay” said the voice, “we’ll be there”. “But no one has asked you”, replied Wendy. “How did you know about it?” “We saw it in the local paper. We did it last year, so we put it on our agenda”, came the reply. A few days later they duly turned up, providing eighty quality breakfasts, then quietly went on their way.

Having been promised help by a number of people who did not turn up, or made excuses, Wendy was really impressed by these folk who, at such short notice, could be so organised and so helpful. When she told me the story, I wasn’t in the least bit surprised. Who were they? The local Scout Fellowship, of course!

We all sit down at some time and plan our year’s programme taking in the events we regularly support. This year in GLSW, both Richmond upon Thames and Croydon Scout Fellowships have ten events planned and Wimbledon and Wandle have twelve. Many of these will be in support of Scouting and charitable causes. Can we please make sure the County knows about any Scout Fellowship activities via this column – tell us your story!

Les Ling Croydon Fellowship

Peter MacDonald – Vice President

Unfortunately, Peter passed away before Christmas, after a short time at St. Wilfrid’s Hospice West Sussex. As Peter was an ex Mayor of Croydon a Thanksgiving service in his memory was held at Croydon Parish Church in January, at which GLSW was represented. Donations to Cancer Research can be made in Peter’s memory if anyone wishes to do so. Visit www.cancerresearchuk.org.

GLSW International Service Team

Over 50 people from all five districts came together for an evening at Bow Lane early in the new year to find out more about the opportunities to be involved with the 2007 World Scout Jamboree as members of the International Service Team (IST).

After refreshments provided by the Network, we heard from Natalie and Adie about the positive experiences they both had as IST in Thailand and at EuroJam. Next we took an inspirational look at the official WSJ video for 2007. Then was saw that the UK can provide an event with true International quality by looking at a clip from the EuroJam DVD, remembering that all the activities filmed had IST to support and run them.

The nut and bolts of IST, the UK Contingent, dates, jobs, where to get information, etc were all explored in a short presentation.

The benefits of belonging to a ‘GLSW IST Unit’ (for all those from GLSW interested in being IST) based on a specialist IST Network and Fellowship, were discussed. Ideas include participating together in events such as Gilwell Reunion, fundraising, and group travel.

An e-mail list of all those attending the meeting has been collated, and if are thinking of being IST in 2007 but missed the meeting, please contact our ACC International roy.bromley@glswscouts.org.uk so you can be added to the list. To find out more visit the web sites below and register for more information: www.ukcontingent.org.uk and www.wsj.scouting2007.org/english/index.php.

The meeting ended with a real ‘buzz’ of interest and enthusiasm, remember: “It is impossible to underestimate the importance of the IST at a World Scout Jamboree”

First Aid

If you require first aid training for your Group, or Unit County can now offer a variety of courses to suit the needs of First Response, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award requirements etc. To find out more and discuss your requirements contact Janet Drinkall at janet.drinkall@glswscouts.org.uk.

GANG SHOW SOUWEST 2006

GANG SHOW SOUWEST 2006 Secombe Theatre, Sutton, Tuesday 24th October -Saturday 28th October 2006

Auditions: are being held on Sundays 26th February & 5th and 12th March 2006. All auditions will be held at Christ Church with St Phillip’s Church Hall, Ruskin Drive, Worcester Park, Surrey.

You only have to attend one audition date. Auditions are open to members of the Scout & Guide Associations. You must be nine years old or over by 1st October 2006. You should be enthusiastic, able to sing, move in time to music, act a little, BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY .......HAVE FUN!!

For more information contact your Leader, visit the web site www.glswscouts.org.uk/gangshow or e-mail gangshow@glswscouts.org.uk.

Good Service Awards

Medal of Merit
Stephen Cole Croydon
David Smith Croydon

London International Experience

Ever wanted to put the spotlight on an International theme but never known how to?

Well, here is your chance to drop in and discover a day full of everything you wanted to know about anything International. London’s ACC(I)s have joined forces to exclusively pull together a wealth of International experience. It doesn’t just stop there though; if you attend this day it will benefit you as follows:

More details from Roy Bromley at roy.bromley@glswscouts.org.uk

Scout Holiday Homes Trust

If you were not aware the Trust provides caravans at various holiday parks around the country, for families with special needs, or requiring some respite opportunities, or with low incomes. At some times of the year, when not booked, they are available for members of the movement in order to maximise the hiring income. This year the Trust needs to urgently replace several of the caravans that it owns and is appealing for assistance for funds. As this is one of our own Scouting charities, providing a much needed service, I wondered if we could assist in some small way in GLSW? Perhaps donating St. George’s day collections to the Trust this year or doing a sponsored event of some kind during a sectional meeting?

Donations to the Trust can be marked for their attention to Gilwell Park. The County Commissioner can supply further details.

County Media Manager

Volunteer required to act as the County Media Manager, to ensure that scouting within the county has a higher profile in the various aspects of the media.

Training available by Gilwell, paid for by GLSW. Salary and conditions as per the usual Scouting rates!! If interested, or needing further information about the role, please contact the County Commissioner to chat about the position.

New Appointment ACC Scout Fellowship

Natalie Cook has been appointed as ACC Scout Fellowship with immediate effect. Natalie can be contacted at natalie.cook@glswscouts.org.uk.

Explorers

On the 12th February 2006, we have the National Explorer Scout team coming to our County, at our request, to put on their support training day.

Time

Arrive 9.30 for a 10.00am start finish 4.15pm.

Venue

1st Hook HQ, Verona Drive, Hook, Surrey.

Who is it for?

Any adult working with or who has an interest in the Explorer Scout Section.

Catering

Bring your own lunch – tea & coffee provided.

Does it help with my training?

It briefly touches on Module 12 Programme planning, but of course it does not cover the practical side of actually putting a programme together.

It mainly covers Module 13 Growing the Movement: (A) Working with others, produce and implement a development plan for your section and (B) Transfer methods between sections.

Network

Firstly, congratulations to Hannah Watts and James Gordon on their recent engagement. Wedding bells were in the air in Hampton on December 10 when Sarah Hounson married Stuart Richardson. There was a good turnout of Network members both at the church and the ‘bun fight’ in the evening!

Congratulations also to Gemma McNair and Charlotte Oliver, who were invested under the Gilwell Oak on a very frosty Saturday evening in November. The day had started with a tour of the Imperial War Museum where we posed for photographs beside Jack Cornwell’s gun from HMS Chester, and finished by propping up the bar in the White House before camping overnight in Essex Chase.

The Queen’s Scout Award Presentation at Carshalton Water Tower was most successful, and Kate Hoey MP spent a lot of time chatting to the ‘presentees’ and their families. Many thanks to Catherine Keen for doing a splendid catering job. Plans are in hand for the next Presentation sometime in the Spring. Hannah Watts, our new County Queen’s Scout Registrar, informs me that 24 Queen’s Scouts from GLSW will be on parade at Windsor this year, and we wish them a memorable day.

In December, 26 of us had an encounter with Peter Duncan in Nandos after an evening performance of Cinderella at the Wimbledon Theatre. He was in great form and very candid about his role as Chief Scout! A few days on, several of us met at Bow Lane to review the DVD ‘Chernobyl Heart’, an altogether more sober occasion. If anyone would like to borrow the DVD please ask the undersigned.

Into the New Year, and Bow Lane was again the venue for a meeting to launch the 2007 Jamboree IST Network. Many thanks in particular to Helen Jeffrey for arranging this, and to the various speakers. I hope to be able to announce details of the Coordinator for this Network very shortly. During December, we undertook some tree-felling to raise funds for the Network, and I am most grateful to the small band who participated. If anyone has any good fund-raising ideas then please let me know. The ‘Away Meet’ in January was much enjoyed, and we are all look forward to the Hillwalking weekend at Bethesda in February.

Operation Red Flare takes place on March 4/5, and I know Simon Keen is ‘keen’ to retain the ‘Horns’ trophy, but then there are others who won’t give in that easily. Why not enter as a Network or make up a team with Explorers?

Alternatively, you can help run a checkpoint. Come prepared, though, it snowed last year! Later in the month Network members will be supporting District recruitment teams across the County, and even a couple of hours help will be much appreciated. Get involved!

On April 22, the Network is holding a Barn Dance with the Bonabrill Band and a buffet supper all for £6 a ticket (4 for £20), while at the end of the month the rugby team competes again in this year’s Middlesex Sevens. We will publish details nearer the time – why not come along and support our guys?

Unfortunately the Queen’s Scout and Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award expedition in April has been cancelled, but we will be going to South Wales in August. Book online at www.glswscouts.org.uk/network if you wish to participate.

Numbers are building up quite nicely for the Explorer Belt in Lithuania this Summer, and we are holding a training weekend at Bears Wood Scout Camp over the weekend of February 25/26. Applications will be accepted up to this date, but realistically not beyond.

Chris Dean County Scout Network Commissioner

Awards

Queen’s Scout Award
Richard Pennington Worcester Park ESU
Alexander Gill Scott ESU
Chief Scout’s Diamond Award
Rian Charles Magellan ESU
Charlie Dorling Magellan ESU
Beth Horwood Magellan ESU
Chris Byrne Magellan ESU
Sam Jaques Magellan ESU
Sophie Carter Magellan ESU
Chief Scout’s Platinum Award
Lucy Abel Magellan ESU
Peter De Boeck Scott ESU
Alex Dorling Magellan ESU
Kerry Haysted Scott ESU
Luke Ives Scott ESU
Thomas Penson Scott ESU
Jenny Riordan Scott ESU
Anthony Sharp Scott ESU
Stephen Wapshott Scott ESU
Emma Wellham Scott ESU
100 Nights Away Woggle
Ben Miles Magellan ESU
James Sykes 14th Wimbledon
Simons Sykes 14th Wimbledon
75 Nights Away Badge
Steven Alexander 1st North Sutton
Sophie Alexander 1st North Sutton
Martin Knight 1st North Sutton
Laurie McCron 14th Wimbledon

Profile on Derek Smith Newly Appointed ACC Special Needs

I started my Scouting life as a Rover Scout with a group at St Peters Church, Bishopsford Road, Morden at a time when you could get pie and mash, get into the pictures and have an ice cream all for 2 shillings or 10p in today’s money. Now that was value for money!

Anyway moving on, I stayed with the St Peter’s Group until they pulled down the Old Scout Hut and built a new building. After that, I joined the youth club which was called the Cross Keys Youth Club and went on to do amateur dramatics. You would not believe it now, but in those early years, I had a terrible speech problem. The shows we put on brought tears of laughter to many, and very quickly I found I could use my speech problem to my advantage in bringing joy to others.

In the sixties I met my dear wife Pat. We married and had two sons. First Matthew and then Nicholas, joined 6th Carshalton Scout Group. By then I was a School Governor to two local schools. One Cub sports day, I was asked if I could help and I went on to the Group Executive Committee where I became assistant quarter master of Harrow Road Scout Head Quarters. The two Leaders who ran the Beaver Colony asked if I would become the Group Scout Leader, and they would not have believed how much I wanted the job. This is where I first met George Newbery, the District Commissioner. George informed me of the various training courses I would have to do. At one time I was the only GSL to turn up with over 5 training advisors, Paul Richardson still talks about it to this day!

By now George had moved on and Malcolm Cook became our new DC. Our Group 6th Carshalton had a merger with 1st Hackbridge making 6th Carshalton, one of the larger groups in the District. It was a privilege to take on 1st Hackbridge with a terrific lot of skilled leaders.

6th Carshalton celebrated their 60th year in Scouting which brought so many old and new Scouts together. At this time I had started to help out at Orchard Hill Scout Link on a weekly basis. It was then that Malcolm Cook asked me to become ADC Cub Scouts so sadly I left 6th Carshalton Scout Group to move onto more District activities. About this time, I started helping at the Agoonoree Scout Camps which takes place once a year at the end of July. I am on the staff and my roll during the week’s camp is doing the washing up. I have it down to a fine art after all these years!

I became ADC Activities at the District Shows in Cheam Park. It caught my eye the amount of youngsters in wheelchairs who were not in Scouting. Why was there no Special Needs Groups in Sutton and Cheam or Wallington & Carshalton for that matter? With the help of Sutton Mencap and the Girls from Wallington High School, myself 15th Wallington Scoutlink was born. It started with Scouts where I was the Leader, then Explorers Scouts & Network. I gave up my roll as Scout Leader and started the Cubs to become their Leader.

Janet Drinkall became the D.C. and I became ADC Beaver Scouts. My years in Scouting have been and always will be a joy. I have met some remarkable people in this voluntary movement of ours who give their precious time to Scouting.

In Scouting, we believe that the world is a better place when people work together to serve others and improve society. Imagine it, the whole world thinking well of each other. Imagine what would come of that!

Diary Dates 2006

9 February CST – Bow Lane
12 February Explorer Day – Bow Lane
13 March County Finance
18 March ADULT RECRUITMENT DAY
22 March County census meeting – Bow Lane
29 March County Executive – Bow Lane
12 – 14 May Agent 2007 Conference
17 May Wimbledon and Wandle AGM
21 May County Day – Bow Lane
7 June County AGM
13 June Croydon AGM
14 June Royal Kingston AGM
28 June CST – Bow Lane
2 July Cub and Beaver Fun Day – Walton Firs
29 July – 12 August County Explorer Belt Lithuania and Seychelles
4 September County Finance
20 September County Executive – Bow Lane
23 – 24 October Warwick Conference and AGM
29 October Regional Communication and Consultation Day – Gilwell
6 November County Finance
19 November County Day – Bow Lane
29 November County Executive – Bow Lane

Focus on GLSW

Items for the April issue should be submitted by 12th March 2006 to the editor: focus@glswscouts.org.uk