What is the Scottish Development Fund?
The Scottish Development Fund exists to provide financial support to projects that will extend, develop and enhance the quality of Scouting provided to young people and adults across Scotland.
New Forms
New electronic forms are now available, along with updated guidance notes for the application process. These are available for Standard Grants, Small Grants, Special Needs Grants and Start Up Boxes.
Who can apply?
The fund is open to all Sections, Groups, Districts and Regions in Scotland.
What can be funded?
- The start-up costs of a Section - for Beaver Colonies & Cub Packs only (Start Up Boxes)
- Training and Assessment of Adults (Small Grant)
- Development Initiatives (Standard Grant)
- Support for additional Needs (Special Needs Grant)
Restrictions
This fund does not set any particular restrictions with the execptions of:
- Buildings (Construction and Maintenance)
- Modular Training for Individuals
- International Camps/Expeditions
When to apply?
The deadlines for applications each year will be:
- 1st February
- 1st May
- 1st September
- 1st November
Applications must be received in advance of all projects and no retrospective costs can be funded.
How do I apply?
Applications should be completed electronically and emailed to: [email protected]. Once you complete the application you should send it to the relevant volunteer to be endorsed (or directly to SHQ in the case of Start Up Grants). The person you forward the application to for endorsement should submit the application to SHQ on your behalf.
Further information about the various types of grants can be found below.
Start Up Boxes
The Start Up Boxes can be applied for by new Sections within the first six months of registration. Separate forms are available as follows:
- Beaver Scout Colonies and Cub Scout Pack (Scottish Development Fund Start Up Application) - can apply to recieve a Start Up Box which contains Programme Resourses, Games and Activity Equipment, Stationery and Useful Publications.
Forms should be completed electronically by:
- Beaver Scout and Cub Scout Applications - Section Leader or Group Scout Leader
Small Grants
The Small Grants process aims to provide simple, fast access to small scale financial support for individuals building capacity for adult training and the assessment of adults for Scout activities. Support is available as follows:
- Attendance at Trainer Training Courses i.e. Modules 27-34
- Activity Permit Training and Assessment
- National Governing Body Instructor Courses
Small grants will be capped at 1/3 of the total costs up to a maximum grant of £200 except when the cost per person relating to an externally accredited course is higher.
Applications can be submitted at any time and a decision will be advised within 10 working days.
Group Applications will not be accepted for Small Grants.
Forms should be electronically completed and endorsed by:
- Applicant
- Appropriate Line Manager (GSL, DESC, DC, RC)
Standard Grants
The Standard Grant Process is available for applications up to a maximum of £3500. Applications will usually only be part funded and applicants must state how the balance of funding will be achieved.
Standard Grants should focus on the elements of the Scottish Headquarters Work Plan as follows:-
- Sustainable growth, development and diversity
- Volunteer development, training and support
- Working in partnership with the community
- Delivery and support of a quality programme
- Supporting and developing our Young People
- Safeguarding and safety in Scouting
All applications should be able to demonstrate outcomes that meet one of the above aims and how Scouting will be enhanced as a result of the project.
In exceptional circumstances a grant exceeding £3500 may be available to assist with a longer term project. Initial contact in this regard should be made with Scottish Headquarters.
Forms should be appropriately completed and endorsed as follows:
- Relevant Line Manager (GSL, DESC, DC, RC)
- Assistant Regional Commissioner (Development) or Regional Commissioner (only if vacant)
Special Needs Grants
The Special Needs Fund exists to provide financial assistance to projects and activities that will support, extend and improve the quality of Scouting provided to young people with additional needs in Scotland. There are no restrictions to the type of project or activity for which funding may be provided. However, priority will be given to applications focussing on:
- Section programme events and Camps
- Section International Experiences
- Camping, activity and games equipment specifically required for members with Special Needs
- Costs of additional volunteer support (e.g. Carers or Nursing help) required for a Special Needs member to take part in Scouting activities, however excluding salaries or wage costs
- Training of Leaders in Special Needs Matters
- Adaptations to premises to provide a user friendly environment for special needs members
All applicants will be asked to explain how the project or activity will benefit young people with Special Needs in Scotland. Full funding will not normally be granted and applicants should state how the balance of the funding will be achieved.
Forms should be electronically completed and endorsed as follows:
- Relevant Line Manager (GSL, DESC, DC, RC)
- Regional Adviser (Special Needs) or Regional Commissioner (only if vacant)
Supporting Documents
Applications should be made using the appropriate forms and submitted along with the following:
- Small Grants - A quote/invoice from the service provider detailing the total cost of the event/activity/course
- Standard Grants- A copy of the most recent certified accounts must be submitted with each application, , along with any quotes pertinent to the project
- Special Needs Grants- A copy of the most recent certified accounts must be submitted with each application, along with any quotes pertinent to the project
Failure to supply the above information will disqualify the application.
Evaluation
All successful grant applicants must complete a return following the completion of their project which includes any receipts/invoices for expenditure incurred, as well as a brief evaluation of the project itself.
Further Information
If you want to discuss an application further or want need assistance completing the [email protected].