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 the District Finance Committee
Membership of committees is agreed annually and includes uniformed and non-uniformed roles. Parental involvement is especially encouraged.