Every Scout Group is supported by a team of volunteers working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. This team is called the Trustee Board.
Our Trustee Board members act as the charity trustees for the Scout Group. Their role is to make sure the Group is run safely, legally and sustainably so our volunteer leaders can focus on delivering an exciting programme for young people.
As part of The Scout Association, each Scout Group operates as a charity. The Trustee Board ensures the Group follows the rules of Scouting and the requirements expected of trustees by the Charity Commission for England and Wales.
What Does the Trustee Board Do?
The Trustee Board provides governance and oversight for the Scout Group. Their responsibilities help ensure the Group can continue offering great opportunities to young people in the local community.
Governance and compliance
- Ensure the Scout Group operates in line with Scout policies and charity law
- Act in the best interests of the charity and its members
- Make sure proper processes and governance are in place
Financial oversight
- Manage and monitor the Group’s finances
- Approve budgets and oversee fundraising
- Ensure funds are used responsibly to support activities
- Prepare and submit annual accounts
Property, equipment and insurance
- Oversee maintenance of Scout buildings and equipment
- Ensure appropriate insurance cover is in place
- Help manage risks and maintain safe environments
Supporting the leadership team
- Provide practical support to the volunteer leaders
- Help ensure the Group has the resources it needs
- Contribute to long-term planning and sustainability
The Trustee Board helps ensure that everything behind the scenes is organised so that young people can continue to enjoy safe, fun and adventurous Scouting.
Roles on the Trustee Board
Trustee Boards usually include a mix of parents, volunteers and community members who bring different skills and experience.
Typical roles include:
Chair
The Chair leads the Trustee Board and helps ensure meetings run effectively. They coordinate the work of the trustees and support good governance.
Treasurer
The Treasurer oversees the Group’s finances, including budgeting, record keeping, and preparing the annual accounts.
Trustee Board Members
Trustees contribute their skills and experience to support the running of the Group. This might include helping with:
- fundraising
- building maintenance
- governance
- community connections
- events and planning
You don’t need to have been involved in Scouting before to become a trustee — enthusiasm and a willingness to help are the most important qualities.
Who Can Become a Trustee?
Many trustees are parents or carers of young people in the Group, but anyone from the local community can volunteer.
You might enjoy being a trustee if you:
- want to support Scouting locally
- have skills in finance, organisation, fundraising or property
- would like to contribute a small amount of time to help young people
Training and guidance are available through The Scout Association, so previous experience isn’t required.
Most Trustee Boards meet three to four times per year, making this role manageable alongside work and family commitments.
Why Volunteer as a Trustee?
Joining the Trustee Board is a great way to make a real difference in your community.
You will help:
- provide opportunities for young people locally
- support the volunteers delivering the Scout programme
- ensure the long-term future of the Scout Group
- develop valuable governance and leadership skills
Even a small amount of time can have a big impact.
Interested in Getting Involved?
Scout Groups rely on volunteers, and Trustee Board members play a vital role in keeping everything running.
If you would like to find out more about becoming a trustee, we would love to hear from you.
Speak to one of the leaders at a meeting night or contact us through the website to start the conversation.
Together we can continue providing skills for life to young people in our community.
