Funding boost pitches in for scout group

A North Tyneside scout group is preparing for more outdoor adventures after securing a four-figure grant to replace equipment damaged during Storm Arwen.

The 1st Killingworth Scouts has received £1933 from the Banks Community Fund, operated by regional employer the Banks Group, to purchase new camping equipment.

Funding has paid for two large tents to replace ageing shelters damaged by the storm, alongside two event shelters providing covered spaces for activities and equipment storage during wet weather.

A wheeled cool box has also been purchased to help volunteers and young people transport and store food during camping trips.

The equipment has already been put to use by six scouts during a two-day expedition forming part of their work towards the Chief Scout Award.

Alison Gardner, trustee at 1st Killingworth Scouts, said: “Our camps and outdoor activities are about much more than just the things we’re doing on the day.

“As well as helping our group develop a range of life skills, they also help them learn about things like teamwork and resilience, and are central to the development of strong friendships that last right through our members’ scouting years and beyond. 

“The tents we’ve replaced have served us well, but the damage caused to them by Storm Arwen and the many times they’d been used has finally seen them go beyond being usable.

“The new tents will be used by every section within our group and will mean that more young people are able to take part in more trips, while the event shelters will enable us to do many more outdoor activities under cover, regardless of the weather conditions.

“It would have taken us a long time and a lot of effort to raise the money we needed to buy this new equipment, so we’re really grateful to Banks for helping us make these important purchases.”

With further trips planned throughout the remainder of this year and into 2027, the group hopes to encourage more members to take part in camping and outdoor activities.

Based at St John’s Church in Killingworth, the group is supported by ten volunteers and offers activities for young people across several age groups.

It is also among the few local scout groups to offer a Squirrels section for children aged four to six, alongside Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers.

Jamilah Hassan, community relations manager at the Banks Group, whose community funds are independently managed by Point North, added: “The opportunities and experiences that scouting offers to young people are second to none and we’re very glad to be helping the 1st Killingworth Scouts offer even more chances for its members to get out in the open air.” 

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