Since starting the role in January, a lot has changed but the key element of supporting groups within the London area has remained so important, albeit how this has been delivered has changed.

Throughout lockdown, I have been advising groups on what they are able to do in a virtual capacity, as well as just checking in on people to ensure they are doing okay. Just being on the end of a phone, being able to chat has been a help to some of those leaders I have spoken to. As the lockdown continued, I put together the care packs and sent them out to those who requested them. More recently, I have started to advise people on how they can continue to engage with their leaders and membership, either through virtual sessions or by returning to face-to-face meetings.

Behind the scenes, I have continued to administer the Jack Petchey awards scheme, started building relationships with universities in London, represented The Boys’ Brigade at YOU London meetings and liaised with training providers to organise workshops for the ReFresh event in November. The website has also been refreshed, with a new homepage and content updated.

Looking forward over the next few months, I will continue to support companies as they provide activities for our members. I will be working with trustees to deliver the ReFresh event in November and will also be liaising with the HQ team to support the delivery of virtual training events to new and existing companies. I will be continuing to work on ways to encourage people to volunteer with us as leaders and support those volunteers as they settle into companies.

If you need any support or advice over the next few months, or just need somebody to have a chat with, please get in touch via email (enquiries@thebbinlondon.org.uk) or telephone (020 8441 4539)