From the County Lead Volunteer
Author: Howard Nelson
Published: May 1, 2026
From the County Lead Volunteer Update
May will be a significant and busy period across Lincolnshire Scouts, with continued strong delivery of programme, leadership development and governance activity across the County.
It has also been a pleasure to see Scouting so visible across the County. I very much enjoyed attending St George’s Day parades in Grantham and Lincoln, and I look forward to attending in other locations next year. I am also looking forward to joining Louth’s Day celebrations in the coming weeks. The Awards Recognition Ceremony at Burghley was a fantastic event, and my congratulations go to all those who received awards—well-deserved recognition for their contribution and commitment.
Our preparations for Poacher 2026 continue at pace and remain in a strong position. Participation levels are excellent, with the majority of units now fully committed, and staff recruitment exceeding expectations. Planning across programme, safety, welfare and logistics is well advanced, with clear governance structures in place and robust risk management embedded. This event represents a flagship opportunity for the County and reflects the scale and ambition of Scouting in Lincolnshire.
The recent focus on trustee governance, in response to the Charity Commission’s Regulatory Advice, is nearing completion. Thank you to all volunteers who have supported this important work.
Congratulations to Callum Selby on his appointment as County Youth Lead (Designate) for Lincolnshire Scouts. I am delighted to appoint Callum and he will lead the development of our youth-shaped agenda across the County, ensuring that the voices, ideas and experiences of young people are embedded in how we plan, deliver and grow Scouting. He will work closely with our volunteers and leadership teams to strengthen our programme, influence decision-making at County level and champion meaningful youth involvement in all that we do. I would also like to place on record my sincere thanks to Caitlin for the fantastic contribution she has made as Youth Lead, and to wish her every success and happiness in the future.
Thank you, as always, for your continued commitment and the difference you make to young people across Lincolnshire.
Howard
May Bulletin
Leicestershire Scouts are asking for leaders to assist with Cubjam at the Rutland Showground. The event brings together over 1000 cubs for a full weekend of activities and adventure, so we really need the support of volunteers to help make it all happen. CubJAM simply would not happen without the support of volunteers like you. By giving up a weekend, you will help create a huge adventure and a weekend the Cubs will remember for years to come. There are plenty of ways to get involved. Whether you would like to help with security, run indoor crafts, work in the tuck shop, or support one of the many activities across the site, there is a role for everyone. Every volunteer plays a part in making CubJAM an unforgettable experience for hundreds of young people. It is fun, rewarding and a brilliant way to be part of something special. If you are available and would like to support the event, please take a look at the available roles and sign up here: https://cubs.leicestershirescouts.org.uk/cubjam2026staff/ Thank you in advance for helping make CubJAM possible.
A reminder please to all Tomahawk and air rifle trained leaders. Please could you complete the information on the following links so that we can keep an up to date list of registered Trainers. If you have been diligent and done this previously, you don't need to do it again. Thanks For Air Rifle trained leaders Register of Leaders with Rifle shooting qualification – Fill out form For Tomahawk trained leaders Register of Trained Tomahawk Range leaders – Fill out form Carolyn Greig County Programme and Adventure Team Lead 0778 602 5688 Carolyn.Greig@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk
NAVIGATION TRAINING AVAILABLE Are you looking to run activities that require navigation skills? You may want to improve your navigation skills so that you can confidently help your young people make progress through the award schemes. Maybe you are planning a day on the Lincolnshire Wolds or the Yorkshire Moors. Perhaps you are thinking about gaining a hillwalking permit to increase the adventurous options to include the Fells of the Lake District, mountains of Wales or Scotland. If this sound like you please read on. The Lincolnshire County Hillwalking Assessors & friends are looking to provide navigation training for leaders. To make sure the training we provide is what you need we need your input: what navigation training do you need/want? We are looking at providing a mix of training with some online prior to a day where we will meet up for both theory and practical navigation training as required by participants. We will tailor the training to the participants needs/aims. If you have any questions & to let us have your suggestions for your training requirements, please email me. Neil Mahon Lincolnshire County Hillwalking Assessor neil.mahon@lincolnscouts.org.uk
The County Water Activities Team are again running Weekend on the Water. Watersports weekend for members of Lincolnshire Scouts What: Sailing, Canoe/Kayak courses with assessments for NGB qualifications / Scout permits if appropriate .You will need to attend both days. Who: Scouts / Explorers aged 13+ (must be accompanied by a leader), Network, all adults in Lincolnshire scouting. For those under 18, a leader will need to attend with the Young people. Out of County people may attend. Location: 15th Lincoln Scouts Water HQ at Apex Lake, North Hykeham. There is camping on site. You dont need to camp and can be a day visitor but there are no discounts for those not camping. Cost: £50 per participant, bring your own tent. Water sports kit needed (wet-suits or old clothes + old trainers. Buoyancy aids provided). The only additional costs will be for any specific assessment or certification costs . You need to attend for the full weekend. Food : We will provide food from Saturday lunch – Sunday lunch. Timings – arrive for 9am on Saturday, leave no later than 1600 Sunday. Joining instructions sent before event. Bookings at the link below https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lincolnshire-scouts-weekend-on-the-water-wow-2026-tickets-1988563327443?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true Places fill quickly, book early to avoid disappointment! Bookings held in line with our privacy policy that can be seen at https://lincolnshirescouts.org.uk/privacy
Lincolnshire Scouts would like to extend a huge thank you to Katie Smit, who will complete an incredible 10 years as District Lead Volunteer in the Autumn. Her dedication has made a lasting impact, and as she steps down, an exciting opportunity has opened for a new District Lead Volunteer in Rutland. This role offers the chance to make a significant difference by leading and developing Scouting across the District. The District Lead Volunteer provides leadership and direction, supports and motivates adult volunteers, and ensures that young people across Rutland continue to receive high-quality Scouting experiences. No prior experience in Scouts is required, and applications are welcome from individuals or teams. To find out more about the role, view the full information pack, and apply, please click here The closing date for applications is 31 May 2026, with interviews taking place in the week commencing 8 June 2026. For any questions or an informal discussion about the role, please contact Malcolm Moore, Lead Volunteer Development, Lincolnshire Scouts, at malcolm.moore@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk
Young Leader Training Weekend – Book Now! Are you a Scout Young Leader or Explorer Scout looking to develop your leadership skills? Join us for a fantastic Young Leader Training Weekend at 7th Grantham Scout HQ from 5–7 June. This weekend will give you the chance to complete Young Leader training modules (A–J), build confidence, and gain practical skills to support younger sections in Scouting. The Young Leaders’ Scheme helps Explorers aged 14–18 develop leadership skills while volunteering alongside adult leaders in Beavers, Cubs or Scouts. What to expect • Arrival Friday evening – collection Sunday afternoon • Camping available (day visitors also welcome) • Training modules A–J delivered • Fun activities and additional skill sessions • Meet other Young Leaders from across the area • All meals included 📍 Location: 7th Grantham Scout HQ, Earlsfield Lane, Grantham Book your place here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/E2vdn4ekwA Places are limited, so please book early and share with Young Leaders in your group or district.
Ready to level up your skills? Join us for an action-packed Adult Volunteer Skill Day at Woodhall Spa Scout Campsite on 11th July! Perfect for new leaders or anyone wanting to refresh the basics, you’ll get hands-on with: Navigation Fire lighting Cooking on an open fire Safe use of axes and saws Learn, practice, and build confidence alongside fellow leaders in a fun outdoor setting. Event Information 11th July 2026 10:00 to 16:00 Woodhall Spa Scout Campsite £10 per person Don’t miss out. Book now! rob.johnson@bostonscouts.org.uk
Be Part of Something Special – Join the Lincolnshire Scouts Pride Team! Lincoln Pride is taking place on Saturday, 15th August 2026, and we’re inviting enthusiastic volunteers to join our Pride Team! Taking part in Pride is a fantastic opportunity to connect with our local community, promote inclusivity, and show our support for LGBTQ+ members. We’re thrilled to have been asked to run the Family Zone again this year, building on the success of last year! This is a brilliant opportunity to create a welcoming, fun space for families and young people. As part of the team, you can get involved in a way that suits you, helping with planning and organising in the lead-up, volunteering on the day itself, or a mix of both. It’s a great chance to make a real impact, celebrate diversity, and be part of something truly special – all while having a great time with fellow Scouts. Interested? Get in touch with Laura Salmon at laura.salmon@lincolnscouts.org.uk Under 18's are welcome to support us but MUST be accompanied by an adult (parent/carer or leader). Let’s show our colours and make it a Pride to remember!
We want to congratulate everyone who has received an award. It’s fantastic to see so many volunteers recognised for the incredible contribution they make across Lincolnshire Scouts. We love celebrating achievements like these and recognising the difference our volunteers make. If you know someone who meets the criteria for an award, you can find out more and how to apply here: https://www.scouts.org.uk/.../digital-tool-guides/awards/ Chief Scout's Commendation for Meritorious Conduct Patrick Clayton (Boston) Good Service Awards Chief Scout's Commendation for Good Service Alice Ellerby (Boston) Andrew Lakin (Boston) Charlotte Jewell (Boston) Dean Bingham (Boston) Michael Allsop-Brown (Boston) Samantha Blackhorse-Hull (Boston) Danyelle Green (Gainsborough) Karen Metcalfe (Gainsborough) Samuel Bennett (Grantham) Amanda Potts (Lincoln) Anna Hiatt (Lincoln) Clare Brownrigg (Lincoln) Emma Ryland (Lincoln) Hayley Holmes (Lincoln) Ieuan Phillips (Lincoln) Jonathan White (Lincoln) Louise Husband (Lincoln) Lyndon Sanderson (Lincoln) Rhianne Tims (Lincoln) Ryan Tyrrell (Lincoln) Sara Whyatt (Lincoln) Scott Page (Lincoln) Stephen Bye (Lincoln) Stuart Goodacre (Lincoln) Thomas Bayston (Lincoln) Gregory Darling (Sleaford) Katie Bayliss (Sleaford) Mark Bushell (Sleaford) Samantha Olliver (Sleaford) Stacey Wainwright (Sleaford) Shirley Whitlam (Lincoln) Sophie Colcomb (Lincoln) Award for Merit Carol Ivany (Boston) Chloe Webber (Boston) David Tebbs (Boston) Emma Mitcham (Boston) Gemma Allsop-Brown (Boston) Keith Elderfield (Boston) Malcolm Peto (Boston) Peter Webber (Boston) Victoria Jarman (Boston) Benjamin Warburton (Gainsborough) Andrew Fenn (Lincoln) Benjamin Higgott (Lincoln) Deborah Johnson (Lincoln) Frank Werling (Lincoln) Rebecca Bailey (Lincoln) Conor Thompson-Hayes (Lincoln) Joanna Preston (Sleaford) Julie Warburton (Gainsborough) Bar to the Award for Merit Malcolm Pocklington (Boston) Paul Thompson (Boston) Roy Chapman (Boston) Adam Middleton (Gainsborough) Silver Acorn Jacqueline Adamson (Boston) Dawn Kerry (Lincoln) Denise Bailey (Lincoln) Graham Pues (Lincoln) Nichola Lord (Lincoln) Stuart Mellor (Lincoln) Brian Herron (Stamford & Bourne) Christine Jackson (Lincoln) Denise Armitage (County) Stuart Prosser (Grantham) Bar to the Silver Acorn Tracy Chapman (Boston) Douglas Shooter (Lincoln) David Webb (Louth) Christopher Keane (Boston) David May (Boston) Roy Donnor (Lincoln) Silver Wolf Susan Newbatt (Grantham) Sheila Oxby (Sleaford) David Neil Onyon (County) Eileen Booth (Grantham) Richard Guy Dix (Boston) Sandra Donnor (Lincoln) You can view the full awards document here.
Other News from Across the County
Welcome to the latest edition of the Lincs County Bulletin. This is issued on the first Friday of each month. The bulletin will be sent to all adults registered on My Membership and distributed widely. To submit material for the bulletin please email howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk . Download as a PDF View historic Bulletins In this issue: From the County Lead Volunteer DLV vacancy - Rutland Bookings now open for WOW Young Leaders Training Adult Volunteer Skills Day Lincoln Pride Awards 2026
Bookings now open for WOW (Weekend on the Water).
Congratulations to Callum Selby on his appointment as County Youth Lead (Designate) for Lincolnshire Scouts!
District Lead Volunteer needed for Rutland District
Our bravest and best. 2026 Roll of Honour - Lincolnshire Scouts
Awards Ceremony We held our annual Adult Awards Evening at Burghley House, celebrating the achievements and dedication of volunteers across Lincolnshire over the past year. During the evening, we recognised a range of prestigious awards, including the King’s Scout Award, Explorer Belt, Silver Acorn, and the Silver Wolf. These awards are among the highest honours in Scouting and recognise outstanding service, commitment, and the positive impact volunteers make for young people.
Young Leader Training Weekend – Book Now! Are you a Scout Young Leader or Explorer Scout looking to develop your leadership skills? Join us for a fantastic Young Leader Training Weekend at 7th Grantham Scout HQ from 5–7 June . This weekend will give you the chance to complete Young Leader training modules (A–J) , build confidence, and gain practical skills to support younger sections in Scouting. The Young Leaders’ Scheme helps Explorers aged 14–18 develop leadership skills while volunteering alongside adult leaders in Beavers, Cubs or Scouts. What to expect • Arrival Friday evening – collection Sunday afternoon • Camping available (day visitors also welcome) • Training modules A–J delivered • Fun activities and additional skill sessions • Meet other Young Leaders from across the area • All meals included 📍 Location: 7th Grantham Scout HQ, Earlsfield Lane, Grantham 📋 Book your place here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/E2vdn4ekwA Places are limited, so please book early and share with Young Leaders in your group or district . #Scouts #YoungLeaders #SkillsForLife #LincolnshireScouts #VolunteerLeadership
Leadership Opportunities in the Lincolnshire Scouts Senior Team
