The project at the 2nd Southam Scout Hut commenced in March following our appeal on social media, which asked people to nominate community projects that needed support.
The scout hut, which hadn’t seen any renovations for more than 60 years, was selected from more than 100 proposals and, working with the Group Scout Leader (GSL) and Fortem – one of our repairs and maintenance contractors, plans were drawn up for its refurbishment.
A base for over 130 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers aged from six to 18 years as well as 24 adult leaders, the hut has benefitted from a complete re-wire and new heating system, as well as a new kitchen, disabled access and toilet. The rooms have also been rearranged to create more space for activities.
Catherine Cox, Management Trainee and Project lead for Fortem, said: “Every year Fortem's Management Trainees are split into teams and tasked with carrying out a charitable project which makes a positive impact on the community. When we were approached by Orbit about the Scout Hut, it sounded like the perfect project. The project was completely self-funded, so as well as project managing the refurbishments, the team worked really hard to raise £4,888 towards the project. We’re proud of the results and hope that it will help the group to continue to provide lots of great opportunities for young people in the area.”
By leveraging the social value requirements of its contractors, we were also able to work with our suppliers, social enterprises and partnerships to provide a free pest inspection donated by Rentokil, discounted carpets from maintenance company Hankinson, free CCTV from Stealth Fire and Security, as well as all the paint and decorating supplies, which were donated by Bell Group. The new signage for the hut was also donated by Nuneaton Signs, a social enterprise focussed on employing disabled people.
Clare Sykes, Social Impact Co-ordinator for Orbit, said: “Orbit is not just a housing provider and landlord. We’re committed to investing in our communities and making a positive difference to people’s lives, and we look to our contractors to reflect and support us in these aims. We’re thrilled with the support that this project has received from our partners, and with the benefit that it will bring to the scout group and the wider community via the wonderful work that they do in the local area.”
The 2nd Southam Scout Group was formed in November 1963 and has been one of the most successful and largest scout groups in the Leamington Scout District.
The completion of their new hut was marked with an open day on Friday 10 September.
GSL, Gordon Ferguson commented: “We’re absolutely delighted with the hut which is now a safer, more comfortable and accessible space and gives us the perfect base to offer more young people some amazing opportunities and experiences. We’re hugely grateful to everyone involved.”
