The clocks have gone back, and the weather is turning colder – please do take time to think about updating risk assessments and operating procedures for the winter (even if only reminding young people to bring a coat!)

There are a number of events coming up with details on the website:

• Remembrance Parades on 9^th November, 
• Paddling sessions monthly (next session 15^th November), 
• Explorer and Network Incident Hike on 29^th November (adult help wanted!),
• Christingle on 5^th December, 
• The adults Christmas Party on 6^th December.  
• Kent Scouts are running their Learning, Engagement and Action Day on 16^th November.  

The calendar on the website is being updated this week with planned dates for events through to the end of 2026.

The next World Scout Jamboree will be in Poland in 2027 and applications for Gravesham young people are still open – please encourage Scouts / Explorers born between 30^th July 2009 – 2013 to consider applying for selection.  Attending a jamboree is an incredible experience!

Thank you all for keeping mandatory training and DBS’s up to date – you should get emails from HQ as well as me to remind you of these.  Please don’t ignore them; if you need any help please let me know.  If your First Response is due for renewal soon or needs completed for the first time (or if you don’t have to do First Response but want to), we still have spaces on Saturday 6^th December (contact me) and will be releasing some dates for 2026 too.

I am pleased to be able to say that work on the new toilet block at Hopehill is starting next week, with the roof scheduled to be removed on Wednesday 19^th November.  This will give us 12 unisex toilets, 6 showers, 9 additional hand basins and disabled facilities. If you are using Hopehill please remember to book your visit, ensure young people and adults keep out of the building site and you follow any parking directions.

Fraser
District Lead Volunteer