A Newcastle scout group has launched an ambitious £15,600 fundraising campaign to send its young members on a life-changing expedition to the Swiss Alps.
For many of the 24 young people, aged 12 to 18, from the 1st Lemington Scout Group, the planned trip to the world-renowned Kandersteg International Scout Centre will mark their first time travelling abroad.
To remove financial barriers and ensure the trip is inclusive for all, the wider scout team – including scout leader Andrew Warkman and patrol leaders Matthew Warkman, Rebecca Douglas and Zoe Armstrong – must raise enough to help cover the £1,300 fee per scout.
Over the past few months, the scouts have been working tirelessly in the local community, hosting coffee mornings, raffles, tombolas and bake sales to earn their place on the trip.
“Our young people have been working so hard to make this possible, and for many of them, this trip means everything, marking their first ever trip abroad,” said scout leader Andrew.
“We will be learning new skills, experiencing a new culture, and accessing valuable opportunities we’ve never had before. This is all possible due to the help of our donors. We are so grateful for everyone’s generosity.”
The group recently took a major step toward its target by securing a £1,300 grant from North East commercial law firm Muckle LLP, which actively supports the region’s charities.
The scout group was nominated for the grant by Claire Richmond, a chartered legal executive at the firm, in recognition of the support the group has provided her niece over many years.
Emmy Amers-Dodd, group leader for the visit, said: “The money raised is crucial in helping to make sure that we can make the visit as affordable as possible and inclusive to all.
“We’re so passionate about supporting our young people and, along with our dedicated volunteers, we want to ensure that our scouts get the very best that scouting has to offer.”
The 1st Lemington Scout Group has been embedded in its community for over a century, providing vital support to youth faced with social and economic barriers that often limit their access to opportunities.
Through outdoor adventures and community projects, the group helps generations of young people build confidence, independence and leadership capabilities.
While in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the scouts will have the chance to connect with the international scouting community and tackle a range of alpine activities designed to build self-belief.
“We’re all really looking forward to the inspiring experiences and opportunities the trip will provide,” said scout patrol leader Zoe.
“We have an exciting programme of activities planned for both Kandersteg and the surrounding areas to engage and upskill the scouts, such as an incredible high ropes course.
“It’s so important to empower our scouts with this chance to experience a global community.”
*To support the 1st Lemington Scout Group on its journey to Switzerland, donations can be made today via https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/andrew-warkman-2?utm_medium=CF&utm_source=CL