County Bulletin: Issue 26 (July 2026)

As we head into the summer, there is a real sense of excitement across Lincolnshire Scouts, with some fantastic events on the horizon. Poacher is now fast approaching, and I know just how much hard work is going on behind the scenes to make it happen. Events like Poacher don’t happen by chance—they rely on the dedication, time and energy of so many volunteers. Thank you to everyone involved in the planning and preparation. I am really looking forward to seeing the event come together and to experiencing the fun, adventure and friendships that make Poacher so special. I also want to take a moment to recognise someone whose contribution to Scouting has been truly remarkable. Frances Mellor has recently retired as Akela at Saxilby after an incredible 45 years of service. That is 45 years of creating memories, supporting young people, and helping shape lives through Scouting. Frances, on behalf of all of us in Lincolnshire, thank you for everything you have given to the movement—you have made a lasting difference to so many. Looking ahead, preparations are also underway for LincsFest 2026, which will mark the 5th anniversary of this brilliant county event. It feels hard to believe five years have passed so quickly. LincsFest has become a wonderful celebration of Scouting in Lincolnshire—bringing people together, sharing ideas and experiences, and reminding us of the strength of our Scouting community. I hope to see many of you at Poacher in the coming weeks and at LincsFest 2026 as we continue to celebrate the amazing things happening across our county. Howard County Lead Volunteer

Lincolnshire Scouts has been recognised as a Growth Champion for 2025 - awarded nationally to those who've made a real difference in growing the movement. This kind of growth doesn't happen by accident. It's the result of incredible volunteers showing up week after week, giving young people in Lincolnshire adventures, friendships, and skills they'll carry for life. This award is testament to every single one of them - thank you.

Our friends at Hobbycraft have an exclusive online offer just for Scouts members, running until 25 July 2026. Enjoy 10% off in-store and online – perfect for planning your next section activity or refreshing your craft kit. Claim your discount code and find out more on our partner page https://bit.ly/4eBvGZb

SAVE THE DATE FOR LINCSFEST 2026 11/09/26 – 13/09/26 Sudbrooke Campsite What is Lincsfest? Lincsfest is Lincolnshire Scouts ultimate weekend for leaders, organised by leaders! Expect an action-packed mix of socials, seminars, adventurous activities, skill building, and loads of opportunities to try the activities your young people love. And this year is EXTRA special… Lincsfest is celebrating its 5TH YEAR! To mark the occasion, we’ve given the event a huge refresh, and not just the logo We’ve listened to your feedback from previous years to make 2026 the biggest and best Lincsfest yet. Whether you want to: Relax and socialise after Poacher Learn and develop new skills Take on adventurous activities Meet other leaders from across the county …there’s something for everyone at Lincsfest 2026! Make sure you follow @LINCSFEST on facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with activity and seminar announcements, event updates, polls, and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks Keep your eyes on this space, more information coming soon #LeadLearnDevelopBelong #Lincsfest2026

As we head into the new camping and expedition season, please make sure to follow our guidance on stove use and carbon monoxide safety . We’ve joined forces with the Gas Distribution Networks and the Gas Safe Charity to offer a free online course on Carbon Monoxide Awareness . It’s a great resource for volunteers who wants to learn more about the risks of carbon monoxide and how to reduce them. We also have carbon monoxide safety activities which help young people become more aware of gas and carbon monoxide risks.

The new Explorer Programme is here The new Explorer Programme is built for you. Designed with young people like you (and the volunteers who support you), it’s all about gaining real-life skills, boosting your wellbeing, and making a difference where it matters. Whether you want to try something new, challenge yourself, or make an impact in your community, there’s loads to choose from. With a mix of brand-new and familiar Activity Badges, exciting Challenge Awards, and big Top Awards to aim for, your journey is clearer, and totally yours to customise. It’s flexible, it’s youth-led, and it’s all about doing things that actually matter to you. No two weeks have to look the same, you get to shape your experience and make the most of every session. Start Your Journey here

A formal 2 day RYA sailing course will be run for scouts later on August 19th - 20th. Your scouts will learn to sail over the two days at Girton SC. The cost will be £50. Enquiries to Robin Wright robin.wright@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk

St John Ambulance - Young Responders programme in the East Midlands. St John Ambulance deliver free, fully funded (by the National Health Lottery) first aid workshops for young people aged 11-25, in groups of 8 to 30, focused on real-life situations that young people have told us they have found themselves in or are worried about, such as: - Street violence, including catastrophic bleeds - Spiking of vapes and drinks - CPR and emergency response The sessions are interactive, scenario-based, and designed specifically for young people who may be at higher risk or less likely to access traditional first aid training. St John Ambulance offer sessions that are 60, 90 or 120 minutes in length. St John Ambulance are currently booking sessions in the East Midlands and would love to offer this to the young people attending any other sessions you hold with the 11-25 age range. If you would like to discuss this further, or to get some sessions booked, please call Molly Butcher, Facilitator (Young Responders), St John Ambulance (SJA) – East Midlands, Phone: 07889 128090, Molly.Butcher@sja.org.uk