Save the date - Lincs Fest

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

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