As we near the end of 2025, it’s a great time to reflect on all the amazing programmes, events and achievements we’ve made together this year, and to look ahead to even more exciting adventures in 2026.

This year kicked off with our annual NESST Challenge hikes with 1,500 participants lacing up their boots and rising to the challenge.

March saw us return to the Theatre Royal with our dazzling 75th anniversary Gang Show! A cast and crew of over 250 took to the stage to entertain thousands with high energy and feel-good performances.

We launched our brand new event, The BIG Hideout, where 200 explorers went on the run, trying to evade capture from our hunter teams. Over 2,000 of you laced up your skates and took to the Ice in September to celebrate the National Ice Centre’s 25th Birthday. We also recently selected our 36 young people who will be representing Nottinghamshire at the 26th World Scout Jamboree in Poland in 2027.

There have been some challenging moments too, such as supporting over 2,500 adults to complete the new Safety learning, and adopting our new digital tools and ways of working. I know it’s been painful and frustrating at times, but what has been really humbling is how we’ve shown our true Scouting values and supported one another through the challenges. I think we’ve all earned our Teamwork Challenge Awards!

2026 is already shaping up to be another sensational year of Scouting. Our challenge hikes are back, we’ve got 3,000 of you joining us for The BIG Weekend in May, and later in the year we’ll be recruiting our ‘gang’ for the Gang Show in 2027. Possibly most exciting of all is the opening of our brand new activity centre building at Hoveringham which will support and expand the amazing programme of activities that our adventure team provide.

I want to take a moment to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of your phenomenal efforts this year. You teach skills. You inspire. You change lives. Never underestimate the massive positive impact you have on our young people.

On behalf of everyone at Nottinghamshire Scouts, I want to wish you and your families a very peaceful and Happy Christmas.

Jordan Phillips
County Lead Volunteer

Nottinghamshire Volunteers Honoured at Heartwarming Carol Service

Last night, St Mary’s Church in Nottingham hosted a truly uplifting Together at Christmas Carol Service, held on behalf of His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Veronica Pickering MBS HAC. The event formed part of the national Together at Christmas initiative, supported by The Royal Foundation and Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales. Running alongside the annual Westminster Abbey service, this initiative aims to celebrate those who dedicate their time and kindness to supporting others, especially during challenging times.

Now in its fourth year, Together at Christmas continues to shine a light on the everyday heroes who strengthen their communities. This year’s theme, LOVE, focused on the many ways love can connect people—through compassion, creativity, volunteering, kindness, and the simple act of showing care. The service captured this beautifully, combining moving readings, carols, and powerful reflections on what community really means.

A highlight of the evening was the presence of Scout volunteers from across Nottinghamshire, specially invited to represent the remarkable spirit of service found throughout the county. Each individual had been nominated for their dedication to supporting neighbours, uplifting young people, helping vulnerable or isolated individuals, or using art, culture, sport, or nature to bring people together. Their stories embodied the theme of love in action, showing how small acts of care can have a lasting impact.

Attendees spoke about the warmth and gratitude felt throughout the event, describing it as a meaningful moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the good happening within local communities. The gathering also served as a reminder of the power of connection—something particularly cherished during the festive season.

As the evening ended with light refreshments and conversation, the message of Together at Christmas was clear: when communities come together in the spirit of love and kindness, hope shines brighter than ever.

Overview

This summer, Nottinghamshire Scouts proudly recognise 144 amazing volunteers who have been honoured with Good Service Awards, Long Service Awards, Thank You Cards and Wood Badges (plus two High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire awards).

Together, they represent an incredible 860 years of dedication to Scouting across the county. Each award is a testament to the passion, commitment and countless hours our volunteers give to inspire young people and strengthen our communities. We celebrate every individual on this Roll of Honour – thank you for everything you do to make Scouting in Nottinghamshire thrive!

Ashfield

Bassetlaw

Central Notts

City of Nottingham

Mansfield

Newark and District

Rushcliffe

South West Notts

Nottinghamshire

On Saturday 8th June, the picturesque gardens of The Archbishop’s Palace within Southwell Minster came alive with celebration as Nottinghamshire Scouts held their Thank You Garden Party. The event honoured volunteers awarded the Chief Scout Commendation or Award for Merit in 2024. Each recipient was invited to bring a guest to enjoy a well-deserved afternoon tea in the sunshine.

Hosted by the Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Veronica Pickering, the event welcomed 125 guests, including special attendees Deputy Lord-Lieutenant Alex Peace-Gadsby, High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire Ed Attenborough, and the Dean of Southwell, Rev Dr Neil Evans. The glorious weather added to the joyful atmosphere.

County Lead Volunteer Jordan Phillips opened the event by saying, “You give your time, your skills and your care, not for applause and not for awards, but because you believe in the power of Scouts to change young people's lives for the better".

The smooth running of the day was supported by 15 Explorer Scouts from Raptors (Newark District), BEST (Mansfield District), and Fortis Explorers (Central Notts District), who helped professionally throughout the day.

In her closing speech, Lord-Lieutenant Veronica Pickering said, “The Scouts is helping young people with skills for life at such a crucial point in their development, and the earlier we can support people in sections like Squirrels, the better society we have. Thank you to the awardees and supporters for everything you do to help young people in Nottinghamshire”

The event was a heartfelt thank you to those making a difference in young lives. Don’t miss out—get your Chief Scout Commendation or Award for Merit nominations in early for a chance to attend the 2026 celebrations!

Join us as we look back on 2024, a year defined by growth, resilience, and celebration across Nottinghamshire Scouts. We saw fantastic census growth, the BIG Weekend made a triumphant return, and we took time to recognise even more amazing volunteers who make Scouting happen across the county. We also share some insights and look forward to exciting upcoming projects and events into 2025 and beyond.

Overview

Nottinghamshire Scouts are proud to recognise the dedication of their volunteers with the Spring Awards Roll of Honour. Between January and April, across Nottinghamshire 115 Good Service or Length of Service awards were presented across the county, celebrating the ongoing commitment of individuals who help deliver fantastic Scouting experiences. These totalled over 1,600 years of service to Scouting with one volunteer having completed an amazing 60 years service.

These awards honour the time, energy, and passion volunteers bring to supporting young people and their communities. Each milestone reflects years of service that make a real difference. Congratulations and thank you to all the award recipients during the spring term! 

Ashfield

Bassetlaw

Beauvale

Central Notts

City of Nottingham

Mansfield

Newark and District

Rushcliffe

South West Notts

Nottinghamshire