District Merger (repeat)

Information Evenings (repeat)

For  questions and answer Re New District, such as its name, scarf colours, badge and priorities

Friday 9th January, 7.30pm, Ross Park
Monday 12th January, 7.45pm, Sell’s Seventh

email from CLV

[Sent to all Adult Members in Falkes & Icknield Districts]

Dear All,

We are pleased to share some exciting news about the future of Scouting in our area! After careful consideration, Falkes and Icknield Districts will be merging to form one united District.

This change brings incredible opportunities:
• Stronger Community: By joining forces, we’ll create a larger, more vibrant Scouting family.
• More Resources: A combined District means greater support for our leaders and young people.
• New Adventures: Together, we can offer even more activities, events, and experiences for every group and unit.

All groups from both Falkes and Icknield will be part of this new District, ensuring that every member benefits from the shared knowledge, energy, and enthusiasm of our combined team.

We believe this merger will strengthen Scouting for years to come, helping us deliver even more fun, friendship, and skills for life. Thank you for your continued dedication and support — your commitment makes this possible!

We will be holding two information evenings in January, to answer any questions and to get input from you, as Members on some of the features of the new District, such as its name, scarf colours, badge and priorities for the new District Team. Feel free to attend either meeting, not just the one held in your current District.
• Friday 9th January, 7.30pm, Ross Park
• Monday 12th January, 7.45pm, Sell’s Seventh

The key milestones for the merger are:
• Consultation and Q&A Sessions – January 2026
• DLV & Trustee Board Applications Close – 15th February 2026
• DLV & provisional Trustee Board Appointed – March 2026
• District Team recruitment – April to June 2026
• Closing Council Meetings for Icknield & Falkes and opening Council Meeting for new District – July 2026
• New District Operational – 1st September 2026

We look forward to seeing you in January. In the meantime, if you have any questions or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at districtmerger@bedfordshirescouts.org.uk.

Together, we’re building a stronger future for Scouting.

Yours in Scouting,

Rob Pullinger
County Lead Volunteer
Bedfordshire Lee Baker
District Lead Volunteer
Falkes Ben Summerfield
District Lead Volunteer
Icknield

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why are Falkes and Icknield Districts merging?
The merger aims to create a stronger, more vibrant Scouting community with better resources, more activities, and improved support for leaders and young people.

2. Will my group still be part of the new District?
Yes! All groups from both Icknield and Falkes will be included in the new District.

3. Does anything change now?
No, your current District Teams will continue to support you until the new District becomes operational on 1 September 2026. There will no changes to your Groups as a result of this change.

4. What changes can we expect?
You’ll see more opportunities for events, activities, and shared resources. There will also be decisions on the new District’s name, scarf colours, badge, and priorities, which members can help shape.

5. What will happen to the existing District Events?
It is acknowledged that traditions are important, and at the same time it is important to build a single community in the new District. The new District Leadership will consider how to build on the successful events and activities of the past to develop great opportunities for Young People in the future.

6. Can I have a role in the new District Team?
We are looking to form a strong District Team that will be fully able to support all the Groups and Units in the District. You don’t need to be a member of the current District Teams to be part of the new District Team, so if you think there is a role for you then let us know! Once the new DLV is appointed, they will be leading the recruitment for the team.

7. How can I share my ideas or ask questions?
Join one of the January information evenings or email us at districtmerger@bedfordshirescouts.org.uk.

8. What are the key dates for the merger?
• January 2026: Consultation and Q&A sessions
• 31 January 2026: Applications for DLV & Trustee Board close
• March 2026: Provisional Trustee Board appointed
• April-June 2026: Recruitment of the District Team
• July 2026: Closing meetings for Falkes & Icknield; opening meeting for new District
• 1 September 2026: New District operational