County Lead Volunteer
Author: Howard Nelson
Published: April 4, 2025
Spring has arrived across our beautiful county, bringing longer days, warmer evenings, and a renewed energy to our Scouting activities. From camps and community projects to creative badge work and adventurous outings, it’s been wonderful to see the breadth of opportunities being offered to our young people across Lincolnshire.
I want to extend my thanks to each and every one of you—leaders, supporters, parents, and young people—for your continued enthusiasm and dedication. Scouting doesn’t just happen; it’s built on the passion and commitment of volunteers like you.
Celebrating Outstanding Service – Roll of Honour
Each year, we take a moment to shine a spotlight on some truly exceptional individuals. I’m delighted to highlight the Silver Wolf and Silver Acorn recipients from the 2024 Good Service Awards—our highest recognitions of service and dedication in UK Scouting. I am also delighted to congratulate our other award recipients who can be found at Good Service Awards
Silver Wolf Award
The Silver Wolf is the highest award made by The Scout Association, recognising service of the most exceptional nature.
We are incredibly proud of this year’s recipients:
- Kevin Whitfield
- Malcolm Moore
- Mavis Margetts
- Nigel Savill
- Priscilla Lamerton
These individuals have given decades of selfless, inspirational leadership and truly represent the very best of Scouting. Congratulations on this extraordinary achievement.
Silver Acorn Award
Awarded for specially distinguished service, typically after 20+ years of remarkable contribution.
Congratulations to:
- Clare Dunderdale
- Delphine Norton
- Helen Whitfield
- Irene Hewitt
- Laura Barlex
- Lucy Copeland
- Oliver Chapple
- Paul Woodhead
- Valerie Robinson
- Yvonne Bull
Their dedication has left a lasting legacy in your groups, districts, and across the county—thank you.
The full list of 2024 Good Service Awards can be found at: lincolnshirescouts.org.uk/2024-good-service-awards
New District Lead Volunteer - South Holland
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Carla Craney as the new District Lead Volunteer (DLV) for South Holland Scouts from 4 April 2025.
Carla brings with her almost ten years of experience in Scouting, having held a variety of roles across multiple sections. This has given her a broad and in-depth understanding of the movement. Carla currently serves as a Group Lead Volunteer (GLV) in Norfolk, and now lives in Holbeach. When she stepped into her GLV role, the group had only two active adult volunteers due to the impact of COVID-19 and the transient nature of its RAF community. Since then, she has rebuilt the team to include 16 adult volunteers from both military and civilian backgrounds. Under her leadership, the group has also launched the district’s first Squirrel section. Carla continues to lead by example, using her experience and knowledge to train and guide others into confident roles.
Enjoy your Scouting!
Howard Nelson
County Lead Volunteer
Lincolnshire
April Bulletin
UK Scouts have confirmed their participation in the 26th World Scout Jamboree, set to take place in Poland during the summer of 2027. This decision follows a thorough review of the 25th World Scout Jamboree and the organisation’s strategic planning for the upcoming event. The UK Contingent will comprise 70 Units and 630 International Service Team (IST) members, ensuring strong representation while enhancing operational management and the overall experience. Due to the reduced size of the contingent, an invitation will not be extended to members of Girlguiding on this occasion. However, UK Scouts remain committed to maintaining a strong partnership with Girlguiding and will continue to explore future opportunities for collaboration both internationally and within the UK. For this Jamboree, UK Scouts are dedicated to implementing a streamlined and transparent selection process that prioritises representation, efficiency, and accessibility. Additionally, six educational objectives have been introduced for all UK Contingent international events, ensuring that every participant embarks on a journey of personal growth, discovery, and adventure. We are waiting for confirmation on our Unit Size but need to reserve a date for the adult leadership team for Jamboree and also for a County run international in Summer 2027. The date for this is 21 and 22 June 2025 and will be held at Shacklewell Hollow near Stamford. Unit Leadership Team Selection We do not have full details for the selection of the leadership team. Lincolnshire Scouts will follow a structured and fair selection process to ensure the best candidates are chosen in line with the guidelines given by UK Contingent. National and County-Led Selections: Selections will be nationally led for Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and British Scouting Overseas (BSO). In England, counties will manage their own selection processes with the support of the UK Contingent. Set Selection Period: A standardized selection period from May to July 2025 across the UK will help ensure broad advertisement and diverse candidate outreach. Consistent Selection Format: An in-person selection process will be implemented, including scenario-based activities and structured interview questions. Ballots will not be used for Unit Leader selection. The link to register interest is at https://forms.office.com/e/p31CrYa9UB
Our awards: Recognising our fellow Scouts Saying thank you and well done is one of the simplest, but most powerful ways to recognise our fellow volunteers. It really does count for so much. That’s why our award scheme is so important. Recognising people’s contribution in a meaningful way will leave them feeling valued and motivated. I’d therefore be grateful if you can put people forward for our award scheme. Service Awards are there make people feel even more special – beyond a simple word of thanks. We know you’re busy with Scouts and your other commitments, which is why we aim to make the nomination process as simple as possible. You should find everything you need here. But remember, our National Awards Advisory Group is also here to help. It’s also important we recognise those adults and young people who’ve shown courage in adversity and quick thinking in the face of danger. You’ll also find out how to nominate people for Gallantry and Meritorious Conduct, including the Cornwell Scout Badge. Please think carefully about the most deserving volunteers and make your nomination. An award will mean so much to them. Thank you, Dwayne Fields Chief Scout
UK Youth Forum On the 8th March the UK Youth Team hosted the first of its kind youth forum event, bringing Scouts and Explorers from across the county together to help share ideas and shape the future of scouting! 2 Scouts and 2 Explorers from Lincolnshire were chosen to go up to the Etihad stadium in Manchester for the day along with over 150 others scouts from across the county. This was the first every youth forum the scouts have done on a national level and was really amazing to see all the different ideas being shared. This youth forum event will help the UK team put together a strategy for the next 10 years of scouting. Youth Shaped has always played a key part in scouting and this national youth forum showed us that we should all be listening to the voices of our young members as they have some really great ideas! A very big thank you and well done to our delegation including Edith, Nathan, Hugo, Sophie, Emma Rock (Leader) and Abigail Jodhan-Singh (Leader).
Neurodiversity and Special Education Needs (SEN) support. Throughout May, Scouts will be streaming a series of webinars to help you support young people and volunteers with Neurodiversity and Special Education Needs (SEN). The UK Inclusion Team are running the webinars and they’ll provide you with general support, as well as look at topics such as early years, programme, and mental health. Supporting Neurodiversity | Events | Scouts
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Carla Craney as the new District Lead Volunteer (DLV) for South Holland Scouts from 4 April 2025. Carla brings with her almost ten years of experience in Scouting, having held a variety of roles across multiple sections. This has given her a broad and in-depth understanding of the movement. Carla currently serves as a Group Lead Volunteer (GLV) in Norfolk, and now lives in Holbeach. When she stepped into her GLV role, the group had only two active adult volunteers due to the impact of COVID-19 and the transient nature of its RAF community. Since then, she has rebuilt the team to include 16 adult volunteers from both military and civilian backgrounds. Under her leadership, the group has also launched the district’s first Squirrel section. Carla continues to lead by example, using her experience and knowledge to train and guide others into confident roles. Outside of Scouting, Carla works as a Day Service Manager in Lincolnshire supporting adults with autism, disabilities, and mental health needs, alongside her role as a Regional Manager overseeing community support services for adults and children. Her dedication to building strong, inclusive teams and her ability to drive positive change make her a fantastic addition to the District. I am excited to welcome Carla into this role and look forward to the energy and enthusiasm she will bring to the team. Howard Nelson County Lead Volunteer Lincolnshire
Wild Pines Park in Market Rasen is seeking 1–2 Site Leads to oversee operations on our busiest days. Ideal for qualified Scouting leaders, this role combines leadership with a love of the outdoors. Based at Linwood Warren, a transformed scout site, you’ll mentor young instructors, ensure safety, and deliver top-tier experiences. With nearly 40 years of Scouting heritage, we offer a rewarding opportunity to earn extra income while making lasting memories for visitors. If you’re passionate about adventure and want to lead a friendly, engaged team, contact Gary Toward - gary.toward@wildpinespark.com or visit www.wildpinespark.com/jobs for a discussion about the role please ring 07879061486.
Other News from Across the County
Adam Jacklin will be stepping down from his role as District Lead Volunteer for Sleaford District on 4 November 2025. As Adam prepares to step down as District Lead Volunteer for Sleaford this November, I would like to take the opportunity to offer my thanks for the energy, dedication, and leadership he has brought to the role. Adam has been a driving force behind many positive developments within the District, always bringing a thoughtful and steady approach to everything he does. Throughout his term, Adam has consistently put young people at the centre of our work. His collaborative style has helped build strong teams and foster a real sense of community among our volunteers. Whether supporting events, shaping strategy, or mentoring others, Adam has been generous with his time and tireless in his commitment to the values of Scouting. While Adam is stepping back from the DLV role, I know his involvement with the District and County will continue. I look forward to seeing the next chapter of his Scouting journey and extend our warmest thanks for the significant contribution he has made over the years. We are looking a new District Lead Volunteer roles for Sleaford District. As a result we are now recruiting for its next inspirational volunteer (or team of volunteers) to lead Sleaford District. Please click to download the pack which contains detailed information about the role as well as 2 application forms which volunteers can use to either express their interest in the role or to nominate someone else for consideration. We would love to hear from you if you would like to apply or if you would like to find out more information about the role. The deadline for all applications is 1 July 2025. Interviews will be held in July. Please contact malcolm.moore@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk or howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk if you have any questions. The application form and more information about the role is enclosed here . Applications should be sent to malcolm.moore@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk Deadline for Applications: 23:59 1 July 2025
Module 10 First Response An opportunity to complete your Module 10- First Aid. During the day, you will complete your First Aid training, meaning you'll have all the skills and knowledge to manage an incident and cover basic First Aid. This is a county-run event, but taking place locally, so if you need to complete your first response training soon, now is the ideal opportunity! There are two courses, and they will take place at: 1) Grantham - May 10 Scout Hq, Earlesfield Lane, Lincs, NG31 7NT 0900-1600 Link to Book https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1320058754269?aff=oddtdtcreator 2) Boston - June 15 8th Boston (Wyberton): Tytton Lane East, Wyberton, PE21 7HP 0900-1600 Link to Book https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1320060278829?aff=oddtdtcreator Further dates will be published in due course. Bring a packed lunch Notepad and pen Tea and Coffee provided
Bookings are now open The county over 18s only camp, training and social event is back from 13th - 14th September 2025 at Sudbrooke Park Campsite, Lincoln. The event is running from Saturday 13 September (with activities starting 10am) to Sunday 14 September (Lunchtime) and also the option to just come for the day on the Saturday. Full information and details will be shared with all participants before the event. The cost of the event is £7 for member within Lincolnshire Scouts and £10 for any other member of the Scout Association. All scouters, including Trustee Board members and Helpers are welcome. Cost includes badge, travel mug, access to the event and all activities and tea/coffee/squash facilities throughout the event. Booking Link = https://forms.office.com/e/MgCvcssb19
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 New District Lead Volunteer - South Holland Neurodiversity and Special Education Needs (SEN) support Jamboree and International Save the Date UK Youth Forum Message from the Chief Scout – Awards Earn Extra Money This Summer: Become a Site Lead for a High Ropes Adventure Park!
Bookings open at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bob-beavers-on-boats-2025-tickets-1266630418679?aff=oddtdtcreator
Congratulations to our Good Service Award Recipients
Thursday 8 May is VE Day 80 (Victory in Europe Day). This marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe with the surrender of Nazi Germany to the Allies in May 1945. The day is an opportunity to remember the 450,000 from the UK who lost their lives in the war (including 70,000 civilians) as well as the millions more across Europe and around the world. The event will be marked by commemorative events across the UK. Scouts are invited to light beacons and Lamp Lights of Peace at 9.30pm on Thursday 8 May. If you’re planning to be part of the VE Day Commemoration, you can register your event nationally. You event will be added to the official calendar and a certificate will be issued. Please also let the County Communications tea m know, provide a photo or two plus brief details of the event. The Royal British Legion is also organising events to mark this anniversary, involving veterans from the UK, Commonwealth and beyond. Do one thing: Look out for the VE Day 80 – Scouts for Peace Occasional Badge that can be worn on uniform from May to October 2025. More details on this to follow in the membership email. National VE Day Celebrations – Thursday 08 May 2025 Scouts have been invited to take part in the national VE Day Celebrations, part of which is the special 80th Anniversary concert on the evening of Thursday 08 May 2025. This will take place at the Horse Guards Parade Ground, London. Arrival by 6.30pm and finishing by 10pm. It will be televised on BBC One, but we don’t yet have further details about what will be involved for us. Lincolnshire Scouts has been allocated 10 places for this event (2 adult and 8 young people). Some 10,000 members of the public are expected to attend and we will be part of a wider contingent of 500 Scouts from around the UK and British Scouting Overseas. It promises to be a very special evening, part of a moment in history. Lincolnshire adult volunteers wanting to take part – please respond before Tuesday 25 March 2025 Initially, Howard Nelson -County Lead Volunteer, is looking for two adult volunteers from across the County to lead our contingent of 8 young people of Scout and Explorer Scout age. At this stage, he is inviting expressions of interest from adult volunteers only, to be received by Tuesday 25 March 2025. Candidates will: lead and take responsibility for our contingent, travelling into London, whilst at the event and for the return journey. have section Team Leader or Team Member experience be working with the Scout or Explorer age range (although preferred this is not essential as long as you have experience in either of these sections) If you would to take part, then please let Howard Nelson know by Sunday 23 March and provide the following information: Name Membership number Current role, section, Group / Unit A paragraph about yourself and why you would like to take up this opportunity. Young People wanting to take part – please respond before Friday 04 April 2025 With 8 May being just 8 weeks away, Howard is also seeking candidates from young people wanting to take part. Section Team Leaders in Scouts and Explorers, please talk to your young people about this opportunity at your meetings next week and let Howard know your candidates, by providing the name of the young person(s) initially. If there are too many candidates then it is likely the places will be decided on the basis of ease of transport arrangements or potentially a ballot. The deadline for submission of names is before Friday 04 April 2025. Interested or would like more information? Please reply / get in touch with Howard at howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk.
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 Beavers on Boats - bookings open 1/4/25 at 10am Post 18 Options Session Weekend on the Water Youth Shapers event January 2025 It's time to book on as a staff member at Poacher 2026! NorJam Activity Staff Opportunities Uniform days at external attractions LincsFest - Save the date New membership system
