Scouting in the United Kingdom is organised in Scout Groups, Scout Districts, Scout Counties and Country Headquarters. These ‘units’ of Scouting provide:
- Support
- Channels for communication
- Opportunities for youth Members and adults to make decisions and take responsibility
- Functional units through which the design and delivery of the programme can be best achieved
A Scout District comprises several Scout Groups, one or more Explorer Scout Units and one District Scout Network. Additionally a District may have one or more District Scout Active Support Units and Special Groups.
The role of a scout “District” is to manage all the Scout Groups and other functions within it.
Odiham District currently consists of 9 Scout groups and 6 Explorer units with 1 Network. Each Group and Unit runs in a semi-autonomous mode, with District providing the key supportive administration including:-
- Governance, Standards and Training
- Leader and Adult Helper appointments and background checks
- Finance and centralised support (key equipment etc)
- District shop for uniform and other essentials
- Reporting and liaison with the wider Scout “County”, UK Headquarters
The District is managed by a Trustee Board headed by a Chair, who is supported by a Secretary and Treasurer. Other members of the Trustee Board have responsibilities covering specific areas.
The Trustee Board is supported by several committees:-
- District Appointments Advisory Committee
- District Finance Committee
Membership of committees is agreed annually and includes uniformed and non-uniformed roles. Parental involvement is especially encouraged.