Scout group awarded funds to kit out their new base

Friday, 28 January 2022 00:00

By David Murphy

A local scout group has been able to fully equip their new headquarters thanks to securing financial support from Rochdale Borough Council.

The 9th Heywood St Michael’s Scout Group have received over £10,000 from Rochdale South Township, following the latest round of funding agreed by the council committee.

The group recently opened a new modern base in Bamford on the site of their former hut that was demolished in 2020. They have been part of the community in Rochdale for over 50 years, working with young people from 6 to 18-years old, helping them develop important life skills that enable them to make a valuable contribution to their local area and society. The new building is currently used by all scout sections, from Beavers at age 6, through to Cubs, Scouts and Explorers. Some local community groups already use the new facility and a Brownie unit will join this spring.

Thanks to the funding, they now have security gates and fencing, an outside storage unit, facilities for disabled access, kitchen equipment and utensils, a defibrillator, training materials, games and new furniture.

Richard Baron, chairman of the scout group said he hopes the now fully equipped spacious building will attract other clubs and groups too: "We thank the council for the grant they awarded us. We now have a building that as well as hosting scout meetings and local groups can accommodate small functions and generate income. It’s a first-class facility to be proud of and we are looking forward to delivering scouting in a modern, bright and welcoming setting for many years to come. I want to thank everyone who has helped us along the way and hope our new building will become a focus for many community organisations and events, as well as a fantastic base for scouting in the future."

Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation added: "We are pleased to be able to fund some much needed and useful equipment. The money has ensured this fabulous new building looks as good inside as it does from outside and can maximise its potential by being well used. I also hope other groups and clubs will benefit from this building too.”

The number of scouts using the building has returned to pre-pandemic levels and there is already a waiting list for some age groups.