Dear All,

This is an exciting time for the development of Scouting in the County.  Scout Network is an important and integral part of our provision.  It is the pinnacle of the journey of development and adventure for young people in our Movement.  As such, it must be empowering, attractive, fun, inspiring and relevant to developing the sorts of skills and character necessary to face the challenges of wider life.  This is what Scouting and Scout Network are for. 

During the last nine years, Scout Network in Avon has delivered some fantastic achievements and it has undoubtedly made a big difference to the lives of hundreds of people.  You have all played your part in this and can feel justly proud.  As we move towards its tenth anniversary, together, we now need to set out an ambitious and deliverable vision that captures the imagination of its next generation and secures sustainable growth, a well managed Section, and development into the future.  We need to grasp this opportunity to build on the best of what we’ve already done and to make changes where needed. 

In the last few days I met with Ali Padfield (County Scout Network Commissioner).  For a number of years Ali’s role has been to ensure effective leadership, management and support for the section and to facilitate its growth and development.  Ali has met this challenge with enthusiasm, energy and commitment and we are very grateful to her.  Ali has now decided, however, that it is time for her to do something different.  Accordingly, we have together agreed that Ali will formally stand down as Network Commissioner from today. This does not mean that Ali won’t be involved in supporting Network in future.  It does mean that she will take a short break to allow changes before deciding on her next Scouting adventure sometime early next year.  Please join me in thanking Ali for everything she has done and in wishing her well in the meantime. 

The next step is to clarify the future direction we are taking with Scout Network and the steps that may be needed.  I shall use our meeting 10^th November (with Scout Network members and Explorer Scouts) to listen to your views and to discuss this.  Until a new Network Commissioner appointed, I will take direct responsibility for the Section supported by Steve Smith (Deputy County Commissioner for Operations).  Any Network matters should therefore be directed to either of us in the first instance during this period.  I have agreed with Ali one or two specific and practical things during this period that she will see through, however, Network should generally report direct to me/Steve. I very much look forward to meeting you on the 10^th November.

Best wishes,

Dan

County Commissioner