COMPANY LEADERS’
RESOURCE GUIDE
JUNE 2012
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a Registered Charity No: SCO10980
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CONTENTS
Item
Page No
(at top of page)
GB Headquarters
4
Welcome
5
Aims and Principles of The Girls’ Brigade
6
The GB Badge
7
Starting a new Company
8
Structure of Girls’ Brigade Scotland
9-10
The Executive
11
The Company
12
Guidelines for Good Practice in the Company
13-14
Company Administration
15-17
Child Protection
18
Job Descriptions for Leaders
19-22
Training
23-25
Uniform
26
Awards
27-29
Camps, Holidays and Camp Training
30-31
Insurance and Risk Management
32-33
Divisions
34
Equal Opportunities and Complaints
35
Appendices – filed at back of guide
Appendix
Appendix
Appendix
Appendix
Appendix
I
GB Scotland Regulations (2008)
II GBS Financial Arrangements (2008)
III Endurance Award Guidelines (2011)
IV PVG Update (May 2012)
V
Equal Opportunities and Complaints Policy (2011)
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GB Headquarters
Postal address
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland
11A Woodside Crescent
GLASGOW
G3 7UL
Note:
If hand delivering mail after hours please use the letterbox at McAllisters, 11
Woodside Crescent – this is directly above GB HQ
General Contact details
Telephone:
0141 332 1765
Fax:
0141 331 2681
Email:
enquiries@girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk
Website:
www.girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday from 9.00 am – 4.45 pm
Contact details for GB HQ Staff
Caroline Goodfellow, National Director
caroline.goodfellow@girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk
Michelle Grant, Senior Admin Officer
michelle.grant@girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk
Hazel McCallum, Leadership & Awards Officer
hazel.mccallum@girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk
Neil McBain, Supplies Manager
supplies@girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk
Rob McIlveen, Admin Officer
enquiries@girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk
Marion Watson, Finance Officer
marion.watson@girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk
Craig McLeod, Website Development
craig.mccleod@girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk
Contact details for Centre Manager at Tayview Lodges, Guay
Joanne Boyne, Centre Manager
Telephone: 07766660349
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Welcome
Whether a first time user or an experienced leader in The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland (GBS), it
gives me pleasure to welcome you to the new Leaders’ Resource Guide.
In compiling this guide the aim has been to provide all leaders with a resource tool which
can help support them in all aspects of running and working in a GB company. The
intention has been to keep it simple and easy to use at all times and we have taken a
deliberate decision not to publish copies of every form or every policy that we use in GBS as
these often change or need updated so these can all be found on the GBS website –
www.girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk or by contacting GB HQ. Similarly, you will not find
uniform, etc, detailed but instead there will be a reference to the GBS Regulations, which
was sent out to all companies in 2008, but, for easy reference, there is a full copy of this
document appended at the end of the guide.
There are many aspects to running a successful GB company; good admin makes life easier
for everyone and forward planning helps to make a better environment for the girls but
sometimes it doesn’t all work out quite the way we hope and that’s fine, on occasion.
However, there are other aspects of running a successful GB company that we state you
must adhere to and these are usually the legal requirements for Child Protection, insurance
and finance, so that we can keep the girls in our care as safe as possible. If we fail to meet
these requirements it has the potential to put our girls and leaders at risk and, in some
cases, we would be breaking the law if we don’t do what is required. We do understand
that sometimes there can appear to be too many ‘rules and regulations’ but we aim to
minimise these wherever possible while protecting all of our members.
I hope you will find this guide helpful but please remember that the GB HQ staff team are
here to assist you with any issue where you are seeking further clarification or are uncertain.
If you don’t find the answer in this guide please feel free to give us a call as we would
prefer to take the time to sort out any niggles at an early stage before they become a major
issue for you.
With best wishes.
Caroline Goodfellow
National Director
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Aims and Principles of The Girls’ Brigade
Aim
The Girls’ Brigade is an international, inter-denominational Christian organisation and its aim
is:
“To help girls become followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, and through selfcontrol, reverence and a sense of responsibility, to find true enrichment of life.”
Principles

The Brigade acknowledges Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord according to the Scriptures
and seeks to fulfil its aim to the glory of One God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

The Brigade witnesses to the standard set by Jesus Christ and gives positive teaching on
the Christian attitude to life.

The Brigade promotes a just society where all people are equally valued.
Motto
“Seek, Serve, and Follow Christ.”
Promise
“I promise to try to seek, Serve and Follow Christ.”
Background Information
The Girls’ Brigade was first started in Ireland in 1893, followed by the Girls’ Guildry in
Scotland in 1900 and 1902 saw the Girls’ Life Brigade begin in England. It was in 1965 that
‘The Girls’ Brigade’, as we know it today, was formed by uniting the 3 organisations. Today,
all of the Girls’ Brigade organisations in the UK and Eire are autonomous.
Girls’ Brigade is an international organisation with work in around 70 companies across the
world. We rejoice in the diversity that this creates in respect of programme, uniform, etc
but we are united by our badge, our aim and the principles of The Girls’ Brigade that never
change, no matter where we find ourselves in the world.
More detailed information on the work of Girls’ Brigade International can be found on their
website:
www.gbic.org/
GBS is also part of the European Fellowship which reports to GB International. GBS sends 2
representatives to EF Executive meetings, one from the Executive and one youth member, 4
times per year. For further information on the work of the European Fellowship visit their
website or read the updates on the GBS website.
www.gbeurope.org/
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The GB Badge

In the centre a Cross, the symbol of Christ and his Church.

Below it a Lamp, that our light may shine out upon the world.

Above it a Crown, that we may own Christ as our King

Behind a Torch, the flame of Christ’s living spirit and our devotion to Him.

The blue circle represents loyalty,

the red background stands for sacrifice and service,

and the cross is white, denoting purity.
The Badge of The Girls’ Brigade is made up from the badges of the three founding
organisations and is a symbol of union, as well as symbolising faith in allegiance to Jesus
Christ.
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Starting a new company
The idea for starting a Company can come from anyone. However all Girls’ Brigade
Companies must be attached to a Church or Mission and have the support of the Minister or
worship leader. If you know of someone who is considering starting a new company it
would be helpful if you suggest they contact the National Director at GB HQ who would be
happy to talk to them informally in the first instance. If they decide to proceed the normal
process follows the 10 steps shown below.
1. After informal discussion with the National Director general information will be provided
on the organisation and the setting up procedure. The Commissioner for the area, or a
member of GB HQ staff, can come out to the Church or school with a presentation to
help explain the organisation and its aims if it is felt that this would be beneficial.
2. When the Church or Mission has decided they want to start a Company, a formal written
request must be made from the appropriate Session or Board of the Church or Mission to
Headquarters.
3. The National Director will provide information on the requirement of leader recruitment,
training and safeguarding children. The local Commissioner will also advise on training
for the new Leaders and become the main contact to the Church/ School and the new
Company.
4. All potential Leaders must complete the necessary Child Protection procedures, which for
new leaders will mean undertaking enhanced Disclosure to become part of the PVG
scheme or updating their PVG scheme record if they are already a member of the
scheme. Please note that GBS has no control of the time taken for these checks to be
processed and cleared and potential leaders must not work with children until this
process has been completed by the local, i.e. Church Child Protection Coordinator.
There is also a requirement for the Chaplain of the Church, or their equivalent, to
interview potential leaders before appointment.
5. When GB HQ has been advised that clean Enhanced Disclosures have been received for
all the Leaders, RM1 forms (Registration and Membership) can be issued. Along with
these, forms for name badges, a six week introduction pack, marketing information will
be sent out.
6. The new Leaders, the Church and the Divisional Commissioner together then decide on a
starting date for the new Company.
7. Arrangements will be made for the new Leaders to attend training courses. However
the Divisional Commissioner or a designated commissioned Officer must attend every
Company night until affiliation. This ensures that the girls and leaders are insured for
normal Company activities.
8. A Company must be running with a minimum of 10 girls, in the Explorer and/or Junior
Sections, and have been operating for a minimum of six weeks, before it can be
affiliated. The Commissioner will visit the Company on the 7th meeting night to check
that they meet the criteria for affiliation. Once the form is completed and signed by the
Commissioner it should be returned to GB HQ along with the fee, which is £20.
9. Having received the completed form, the National Director will seek formal approval
from the Executive. At this stage uniform can be purchased.
10. The Company will then be given a title by the Division and it can arrange an enrolment
and dedication service at their Church.
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Structure of Girls’ Brigade Scotland
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The Executive
The new constitution and governance structure for The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland was
formally adopted by The Brigade Council at the 2007 Annual General Meeting following a
long period of consultation with companies and Divisions. At that time, Girls’ Brigade
Scotland moved to be The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland, a company limited by guarantee with a
view to minimising risk for its office bearers and members. The organisation is registered
with Companies House, UK and with the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) and
meets their regulations and requirements as required.
The Executive now comprises:

National President and 2 Vice-Presidents, all of whom are elected by the membership
and must be Commissioned Officers, preferably with experience at Divisional and
national level. They can serve in this position for up to 2 terms of 3 years.

The National Chaplain can serve for up to 3 years as we recognise that this is a major
commitment for those with their own charges. The process of how a National Chaplain
is appointed is currently under review.

The National Treasurer can serve for up to 2 terms of 3 years. This is one post in GBS
that does not require the post-holder to be a Commissioned officer and while the post is
advertised internally it is at the discretion of the Executive to appoint a person with the
suitable skills for the post.

Six elected members can serve for up to 3 years and these positions can be held by any
Commissioned officer who is nominated and seconded by their fellow leaders. The
system is set up to ensure that a minimum of 2 posts are eligible for election each year.

The Executive has, in the last year, co-opted 2 youth representatives to the Executive.
Their positions will be reviewed on an annual basis, in the first instance.

The National Director is the senior member of GBS staff and is the only non-voting
member of the Executive. Her role is to implement the policies agreed by the Executive
and to manage the organisation on a day to day basis. The National Director is
responsible for Child Protection, Insurance and Risk Management for the organisation as
well as advising the Executive on a wide variety of issues.
The Executive has a clear mandate to make decisions about all aspects of the running of
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland (GBS), as per the constitution. The Executive is charged with
the responsibility of ensuring good stewardship of the resources of GBS at all times, which
includes the management of finances, property, personnel and meeting statutory legal
requirements.
There are 4 main Groups – Camp, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Mission and Training – all of
which meet 4 times per year and feed in their recommendations and plans to the Executive
after each meeting. All of this allows the Executive to make informed decisions and to base
policy, where appropriate, on the information supplied by the group members, the majority
of whom are commissioned leaders within GBS. The Executive meets 4 or 5 times per year
and reports directly to all companies and Divisions after their meetings.
The Executive also established a Commissioners’ Forum after the change in constitution in
2007 and this normally meets twice a year. The purpose of this is to share information and
consult with those responsible for work in local areas so that we get feedback on key issues
from companies. In addition, there can be a training element to the Forums as well as
providing an opportunity for Commissioners to share their ideas with each other and these
have proved very useful over the last 5 years.
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The Company
The company is the basic unit of GBS and is enrolled by the Executive following
recommendation from the Church or Mission. The various aspects about company
membership, appointment of leaders, finance, etc is covered in detail in the GBS
Regulations, items 5-8 (pages 2-7), which forms appendix 1 at the back of this guide.
The company and the Church
A GB company cannot be started without the endorsement of a Church or Mission. GB is a
Christian organisation that should sit comfortably within the mission arm of all Churches but
it is solely at the discretion of the Minister and governing body as to whether or not they
wish GB to form part of their outreach to young people.
When a Church or Mission decides that they want to have a GB company it is they who are
responsible for selecting and appointing all leaders to ensure they meet the particular
requirements of their denomination. Girls’ Brigade only commissions and accepts leaders on
the recommendation of the individual Church when recruitment procedures, including
Disclosure checks, have been completed satisfactorily.
The Minister of the Church normally acts as Chaplain to the company but it may be that
some ministers will nominate an assistant minister or a member of the governing body to
take on this role for them. In many cases, the Chaplain will fulfil the role but this can be
supplemented by visiting elders from the governing body who will work directly with the
company to assist and support them in whatever way they can. Chaplains, or their
representative, should be encouraged to visit the company regularly and to assist with
spiritual elements of the programme whenever possible. It is also important that the
Captain keeps the Chaplain informed of what is happening at local, divisional and national
levels so that they are fully aware of the work of The Girls’ Brigade.
The church family will provide support to their GB company and it is worth establishing a
good relationship between the various church groups so that everyone benefits from the
Christian service that GB can offer. All too often, GB may be the only link a girl has to
Church and it may be that parents/guardians will come to know more about the Church if
they are encouraged to attend both GB and church events to support their child.
Does the company need a Captain?
In an ideal world, every company would have a Captain and most do. However,
circumstances sometimes dictate that individuals feel they cannot take on the full
commitment of this role due to work or family commitments. Some companies resolve this
by having joint Captains who can share the responsibility while others decide they will run
the company by ‘committee’. This can work well providing each individual ensures that they
fulfil the task they have agreed to be responsible for. From a GB HQ perspective all that we
would ask is that there is a leader nominated to receive mailings etc, and who can be
contacted easily if a problem should arise relating to the company.
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Guidelines for Good Practice in the Company
Every company will work in its own unique way but listed below are some general
guidelines, based on many years of GB experience, which will benefit girls and leaders.

Aim for a happy, friendly, relaxed atmosphere in the Company. Remember, The Girls’
Brigade is fun.

Have well planned yearly and weekly programmes, but be flexible. If things are not
going well, change them!

Give girls the opportunity to select subjects they like from programme books.

Companies with few Officers need to enlist the help of parents, friends and Church to
supplement a variety of subjects.

Have a balanced programme. Give equal consideration to each area of the programme.

Provide varied, interesting and exciting programmes on Company nights.

Do activities other than Badge work e.g. swimming, bowling, skating, etc

Adapt subjects to suit needs of girls.

Have fun nights (non badge-work nights) e.g. Scottish Night, Teddy Bears Picnic,
Christmas Celebration, etc.

Have prizes for some activities and competitions e.g. team games, quizzes, etc.

Make all activities attainable by planning well in advance and allowing maximum time for
paying by instalments e.g. trip to pantomime, day trips, etc.

Encourage Brigaders to participate in The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and
Queen’s Award. This will develop self confidence and independence and also provide
service to Church and community.

Encourage and insist on correct uniform. Have various payment methods available to
allow for different financial circumstances. Have second-hand items available, if
possible.

Foster good relationships with girls, parents and Church.

Keep parents informed of Company activities through regular letters and items in the
local newspaper.

Have a ‘Getting to Know GB’ evening for parents of new girls. Take time to listen to
girls.

Contact girls by letter or phone if they have been off for more than one week. GB
Supplies has a supply of ‘Wish You Were Here’ postcards that can be purchased for this
purpose.

Keep Church informed of activities via Chaplain, Elder, and Church Magazine.
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
Participate in Church activities e.g. fairs, coffee mornings, concerts

Officers should work as a team. Regular Officers’ and Warrant Officers’ meetings to
discuss, plan and evaluate programme business can be fun.

Executive reports and general correspondence from Headquarters should be made
available to all leaders. Remember, that every leader can now register to receive GB
mail on-line.

Meet occasionally away from Company e.g. Dinner, sports day, relaxing weekend.

Be aware of The Girls’ Brigade outwith your Company i.e. Division, National,
International.

Take part in Divisional and National activities, e.g. competitions, fun days, trainings.

Attend Divisional meetings.

Value your Company and activities provided.

Enhance public image by:


Being seen in public e.g. bag packing, carol singing, parades.

Getting involved in Community e.g. clean-up campaign, crèche, nursing homes etc.

Taking part in national events e.g. Blue Peter Appeal, Children in Need, Macmillan
Nurses etc.
Review and evaluate at end of year with Officers and girls. Meet socially and keep
discussion on an informal basis. For large Companies this can be done in year groups
and for smaller companies in sections. Likes and dislikes from previous year can be
noted as well as suggestions for next session.
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Company Administration
In order to maintain the smooth running of a Girls’ Brigade Company it is essential to keep
certain basic records. Every company should have the following:

Company Roll Book & Attendance Records
This is used to keep a note of names, addresses and telephone numbers for the girls.
This is essential to have in case parents/guardians need to be contacted urgently, e.g. to
inform them of cancellation of Girls’ Brigade for any reason. Available from Supplies, the
Company Roll Book allows the girls details and their attendance on Company nights and
at Church or Sunday School to be recorded. This not only lets the Captain know who
has earned a service award at the end of the session and any attendance awards the
Company may give, but lets the Officer see at a glance when a girl has been attending
irregularly or not at all. However, depending on the size of your Company you may find
it easier to keep the Company Roll and Attendance Records separately. If you divide
your sections into groups or squads, squad Roll Books are also available from Supplies.

Enrolment Forms
Enrolment Forms are the easiest way of obtaining all the necessary information you
require when a girl joins or re-enrols with your Company, while at the same time
providing the girl’s parent/guardian with the meeting time of your company, your
contact details, details of uniform, etc. This form can be downloaded from the website.

Parent/Guardian Consent Form
This form should be completed by every parent/guardian whose girl attends your
Company. This ensures that you are aware of any medical considerations. This form
also includes the section in which a parent/guardian gives consent, or not, to allow you
to photograph the girl at events and it should be noted that by agreeing to this the
photographs may be used for local or national publicity but no details of the girl would
be provided in publicity material.

Company Programme Plan
Supplies do not sell this but it is suggested that a simple A4 notebook is used to record
what is planned for each evening meeting, dates for the company diary, special services,
and notes of items to tell girls. This then provides a complete record of the Company’s
activities for the session, which is very handy when compiling reports for Church
magazines, Captain’s Report for Annual Displays, etc. Some companies already use an
electronic programme plan which can easily be shared with all leaders but the choice is
yours.

Set of Programme Books
Each company will need at least one set of current Programme Books which contain
information on all aspects of The Girls’ Brigade badge work. Explorer, Junior and
Brigader Programme Books are available from GB Supplies and should be ordered from
there.

GB Supplies
Supplies of uniform, stationery, programme material, badges, gifts and GB crested goods
can be purchased from the GB Supplies department. With the exception of badges and
programme material, parents/guardians and friends of GB can now purchase any of the
items available on the GB website via our on-line shopping facility, which is secure and
simple to use. Companies can, if they choose, continue to order uniform, etc by post,
using an order form, available from the GB website or GB HQ, which must be
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accompanied by payment. Companies can also choose to use the on-line shopping
facility for all items, including badges and programme material. All major credit and
debit cards are accepted by GBS in respect of on-line shopping.

Cash Book/Financial Recording
It is a legal requirement that the company records what money is coming in and out.
The simplest way to record this is using a cash book or an electronic version can be used
via a simple spreadsheet. These records should always be kept up to date. This
ensures that the Captain and leaders are aware of what is being spent and how much
money there is available at any given time. It is essential that receipts are kept for
everything purchased as these will be required when the company account(s) are
examined at the end of the financial year.
Please see Appendix II at the back of this guide, which provides clear advice on how to
record company finances. This was circulated to all companies in 2008 along with a
sample spreadsheet of how to record income and expenditure. Details of the
spreadsheet can be found on the GB website or obtained from GB HQ.

Girls Record Cards
These can be purchased from GB Supplies and allow leaders to record the work
undertaken by girls during each session, which then builds into a complete record of her
time at GB.

Application for Awards (Explorers/Juniors) and Brigader Progress Books
These can be purchased from GB Supplies.

Annual Returns
These are sent out from GB HQ in early October each year. Clear instructions are
provided in respect of how to fill in forms, update information, etc along with dates for
returns to be sent back to the Divisional Secretary for onward transmission to GB HQ.
The form also asks for general information on what you have done with your company in
the previous session and an overview of company finances. It is important that each
company provides details of when their accounts were last examined and by whom.
This will normally be checked by the Commissioner when she visits your company.
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PLANNING FOR YOUR COMPANY
Under ‘Company Administration’, the importance of a company programme book is
highlighted and it is essential that all leaders work together as a team to plan and deliver
the programme for girls. Leaders should meet regularly to discuss, plan and evaluate
programmes. Girls and leaders benefit from well planned and well executed programmes.
Some ideas of how this should work are shown below.
Session 200x / 200y
August
14th
15th
18th
25th
Divisional Training Day
Divisional Dedication Service
Enrolment Night
Girls’ Brigade resumes
September
7th
11th
19th
26th
27th
Divisional Meeting
National AGM
Leadership 1 / Basic Officer Training Stage 1
Company Dedication Service
Sponsor Night
Weekly Night Plans
August
26th
Explorers
Juniors
Brigaders
Opening Devotions
Opening Devotions
Opening Devotions
Game
Game
Drill
Action Song
It’s a Miracle
Brigade Knowledge
Circus Skills
Discuss
Leadership
Training, DoE, Queen’
Award
Game
Drill
Movement (Ribbons)
Cotton Reel Animals
Game
Child Development
Closing Prayer
Puppets
Bible Drama
Dancing
Closing Prayer
Closing Prayer
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Child Protection
Girls’ Brigade Scotland is committed to meeting all statutory requirements as laid down by
the Scottish Government. Currently, the organisation is working to the policies outlined in
the ‘Protecting Young People in our Care’ handbook that was distributed to each company in
2005 for existing leaders, i.e. those who already hold an enhanced Disclosure certificate or
those who were in post prior to 2004 and covered under the ‘retrospective’ scheme at that
time. This will be updated during 2012-13 when details of how we will move the leaders
mentioned here on to the new Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme are made
available to us.
Please remember that our Child Protection policies and procedures are there to protect both
girls and leaders and that following them is not optional but mandatory in that it is a legal
requirement for all involved in working with young people.
For those becoming leaders after 1 March 2011 they will become members of the PVG
scheme and responsibility for them undertaking enhanced Disclosure checks remains the
responsibility of the Child Protection coordinator in each church.
Before any new leader can be commissioned or appointed as an auxiliary to work within a
company they must have undertaken the necessary recruitment and disclosure processes,
including child protection training organised via the church, GB or BB in their area. These
are listed in the 2005 handbook and details of the ‘Registration and Membership’ process for
all leaders can be accessed via the GB website or from GB HQ.
The ‘Registration and Membership Form’ (RM1) is the key document that gets sent to GB HQ
after all the necessary paperwork, i.e. Enhanced Disclosure dates, child protection training,
etc, training record (for commissioned leaders) and name badge application form, has been
completed. All of these should be sent to GB HQ together and after ratification the leader
will be approved and registered on the GB database.
For commissioned leaders,
appointment cards, etc, will be sent to the Commissioner with copies to the Chaplain and
Captain. For auxiliaries, a letter will be sent to the Captain along with a letter to the
auxiliary which welcomes them as a member of Girls’ Brigade. Again, further details of this
are shown on the GB website or can be accessed by contacting GB HQ.
Note: Paperwork for commissioning of leaders should be submitted to GB HQ at least 6
weeks before it is required. This is to allow the necessary checks to be made.
Companies and Divisions who are organising commissioning services should allow at least 2
full months from the date they submit paperwork to GB HQ in order to avoid disappointment
should there are any issues with the paperwork.
Every leader has received or will receive, when appointed, a copy of the ‘Good Practice
Guidelines’ which can be carried easily in your purse or bag.
Full details of the new Child Protection requirements will be circulated to all companies as
soon as they are available. In the meantime please refer to the PVG UPDATE, circulated in
May 2012 and shown at Appendix IV.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact GB HQ during this transition
period to assist you.
As part of the new PVG scheme each person being disclosed will require to submit a job
description for the post they are undertaking and copies of these are shown on the next
page so that you can provide these for the Child Protection Coordinator in your church.
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Job Descriptions for Leaders
CAPTAIN
Essential requirements
 Minimum age is 21
 Commissioned Officer
 Member of Church or Mission
Responsible to
 The company Chaplain or other representative as appointed by Church or Mission
What the post involves
 Accepts responsibility for the smooth running of the company in respect of programme,
administration and financial management
 Ensures that the company operates within the Constitution of The Girls’ Brigade in
Scotland.
 Ensures that all Child Protection and insurance policies of GBS are adhered to
 Acts as a positive role model for girls and Officers in her spiritual and personal life
 Maintains good communications within the company and also with parents, the Church
and other groups, as appropriate
 Leads regular planning meetings with her staff team and facilitates good relationships
within the team
 Makes decisions on behalf of the Company as necessary and speaks on behalf of the
membership when required.
 Encourages active participation of the company at Divisional and National levels, as
appropriate
Support and guidance
All of us require assistance and support to help us do our jobs to the best of our ability. For
the Captain, support would normally be available from:



The Chaplain and governing body of the church
Divisional Commissioner
GB Headquarters
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LIEUTENANT
Essential requirements
 Minimum age is 18
 Has successfully undertaken Basic Officer Training and become a Commissioned officer
 Is a member or adherent of a Church or Mission
Responsible to
 The company Captain
What the post involves
 Acts as a positive role model for girls and Officers in her spiritual and personal life
 Making a commitment to attend all normal company meetings and to attend other
events whenever possible
 Taking responsibility for the tasks allocated to you by the Captain
 Working as part of the staff team to ensure that girls enjoy a good programme of
activities in a safe and caring environment
 Attending regular planning meetings with the staff team
 Working with the Captain to assist her in the smooth running of the company
Support and guidance
All of us require assistance and support to help us do our jobs to the best of our ability. For
a Lieutenant this would normally be provided by:



The Captain
The Chaplain
GB Headquarters
21
WARRANT OFFICER
Essential requirements
 Should have undertaken all elements of the GB leadership scheme
 Is a member or adherent of a Church or Mission or is sympathetic to the aims and ethos
of Girls’ Brigade
Note: Warrant Officers do not require to undertake Disclosure checks if they are under the
age of 18 but must be disclosed thereafter to conform with Child Protection procedures.
Warrant Officers should always be supervised and should not be left alone with girls.
Responsible to
 The company Captain
What the post involves
 Making a commitment to attend normal company meetings
 Undertaking the tasks allocated by the Captain or other leaders to help them deliver the
programme and activities for the girls
 To demonstrate a positive influence to the girls
 Working as part of the staff team to ensure that girls enjoy a good programme of
activities in a safe and caring environment
 Attending regular planning meetings with the staff team, as required
Support and guidance
All of us require assistance and support to help us do our jobs to the best of our ability. For
an Auxiliary Leader this would normally be provided by:



The Captain
The Chaplain
Their Tutor (arranged by the Divisional Training Officer)
22
AUXILIARY LEADER
Essential requirements
 Minimum age is 18
 Has undertaken Child Protection training and undergone satisfactory Disclosure checks
prior to taking up this position
 Is a member or adherent of a Church or Mission or is sympathetic to the aims and ethos
of Girls’ Brigade
Responsible to
 The company Captain
What the post involves
 Making a commitment to attend normal company meetings as agreed with the Captain
 Undertaking the tasks allocated to you by the Captain or other leaders to help them
deliver the programme and activities for the girls
 To demonstrate a positive influence to the girls. Working as part of the staff team to
ensure that girls enjoy a good programme of activities in a safe and caring environment
 Attending regular planning meetings with the staff team, as required
Support and guidance
All of us require assistance and support to help us do our jobs to the best of our ability. For
an Auxiliary Leader this would normally be provided by:


The Captain
The Chaplain
23
Training
Leadership Training
GBS offers a Leadership Training programme for girls within the organisation, which equips
them to assume a growing leadership role as well as helping them take their place in society
through personal development and skill acquisition. Each level of the training builds on
knowledge and practical activity, enabling the young women to learn and experiment with
different leadership styles in a safe environment, supported by adults who have nurtured
this developing maturity.
It should be borne in mind that not all girls will want to undertake Leadership Training and,
equally, that not all girls are suited for this. The Captain and staff team should respect a
girl’s choices if they do not wish to undertake this. The staff team should also be aware of
whom they think is suitable to undertake the training and provide gentle encouragement,
where necessary.
Age requirements for Leadership Training
As from the start of session 2012-13, it has been agreed that girls should not start
Leadership Training until they are in S3 and those undertaking Leadership 3 should be in S5
or above. It should also be noted that Basic Training can be undertaken by those aged 17
plus but that they will not be commissioned until they are 18.
Who is responsible for the provision of Leadership Training?
Brigade Knowledge – Girls should build up their GB knowledge before starting L1. It is
important that girls who wish to advance through the Leadership Training programme have
a good knowledge of Brigade and it is up to the individual company to undertake this
before they attend any formal leadership courses.
Leadership I and II should be provided by the Division or in whatever way your local
Division decides to offer this, e.g. perhaps they will link up with neighbouring Divisions to
offer a joint course.
Leadership III can be provided by the Division or by attending a National course, details
of which are circulated via the Activities and Training booklet that is issued prior to the start
of each session.
Basic Officer Training is provided by the Division or in whatever way your local Division
decides to offer this, e.g. perhaps they will link up with neighbouring Divisions to offer a
joint course.
What is involved in Leadership Training?
Leadership I subjects - Communication, Keeping Fit, Relationships and Junk Craft - are an
introduction to the fun and fellowship which comes through sharing experiences with others
in a similar position from different Companies in their area. It should be noted that some of
these may be subject to change in response to ongoing evaluation of the training material.
Once in S4 the girl may then proceed with Leadership II. If a girl missed Leadership I the
previous year it is possible for her to take both Leadership I and II in the same year, but not
before she is in S4.
Leadership II subjects include Christian Attitudes, Social Injustice, Making the most of
yourself, Story Telling and Forward Planning, building on the previous learning.
24
Once a girl has completed Leadership II Training and is in S5, the Captain and Brigader
Leader should discuss with her whether she should start on the Leadership III (Warrant
Officer’s) Training. Please note that it is not possible for a girl to undertake Leadership III
Training without having completed the first two stages of the programme.
If the girl decides, with the approval of her Company, that she would like to become a
Warrant Officer the girl must be registered as an official Trainee with the Divisional Training
Organiser. Normally, the girl will then be allocated a trained Tutor who will monitor and
support her throughout her training period but it should be noted that this is not the case in
all Divisions. Some Divisions only allocate Tutors to Basic Officer candidates and not at L3
level.
Leadership III has a more formal structure; Developing Relationships, Understanding Young
People, Learning Styles, Safe and Sound, Planning and Evaluating, Get Active and Get
Crafty, allowing the Leadership Trainee to develop her practical skills through working with
the younger girls.
Once the girl has completed the training and the practical activities which follow, she will
become a Warrant Officer and should be issued with a Warrant Officer name badge, if she is
over 18, and a certificate to commemorate this. If at a later date the girl wishes to continue
with her Basic Officer Training, she will do a shortened version to acknowledge the various
areas of knowledge she has because of her involvement in the Leadership Trainings.
Girls have plenty of time to become a Warrant Officer. The girl may be too busy or the
Company may feel that she needs to be more mature before taking on this responsibility,
and the training may be deferred until the following year.
How does Basic Officer Training work?
This can be accessed in two different ways:

Someone who is over 18 and has completed the Training Programme up to and
including the completion of Warrant Officer can register to undertake a shorter version
of the Basic Officer training that will include Brigade Knowledge, Administration and
Meetings, Faith Journey, Groups, Equal Opportunities and Resources and Funding along
with a selection of 3 Training Options from the Leadership and Training Manual. This
may take place over two or three days, depending on how the Division wishes to
structure it.

Someone who is over 18 and who has not completed the whole of the Training
Programme up to Warrant Officer can register for the full Basic Officer Training Course,
which consists of all the modules covered at L3 and the shorter version of the Basic
Officer training plus a selection of 5 Training Options from the Leadership and Training
Manual. In addition, direct entrants will be required to build up a selection of Skills
Accreditation to the value of 5 points. A list of suitable skills accreditation activities will
be held by the Training Organiser.
Both Direct and Non-Direct entrants to Basic Officer will be required to undertake Practical
Activities in their own Company. Warrant Officers require to do 2 activities and Direct
entrants require 5. These should be planned in conjunction with the appointed Tutor.
Divisional Training Organisers will be able to provide advice and support to Company
Captains and to Basic Officer trainees. In addition, each trainee will be appointed with a
Tutor who will support them through the process.
25
Upon completion of the training modules and follow-on activities, the Training Organiser will
submit the appropriate forms to GB HQ, which include a completed training record, an RM1
form and a name badge form which will then be processed. When this has been processed
the necessary paperwork will be returned to the Divisional Commissioner who is then
responsible for arranging a Commissioning date for the new Officer.
26
Uniform
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a uniformed organisation. Girls and leaders all wear activity
or full correct uniform as laid down in the Regulations, which is shown as appendix I at the
back of the guide.
Uniform should be purchased as outlined in the Company Administration section of the
guide.
Note: Uniform is currently being reviewed by the Executive, as previously advised, but
members are advised that there will be no change to the current uniform before the start of
session 2013-14 and that there will be a transitional period to allow change to take place.
27
Awards
Programme and Award Scheme
All sections work on a four sided programme which focuses on Spiritual, Educational,
Physical and Service activities. Girls are encouraged to develop skills, have fun and learn
about responsibility in a Christian environment. There is a programme book available for
each section, which provides detailed information for companies to plan an effective syllabus
for the session. All programme books are available from GB Supplies.
The programme for each section is designed to encourage and challenge girls and young
adults, helping individuals to fully utilise their own skills and abilities to achieve the best they
possibly can. It is recognised that not all girls will have the same level of ability and the
award scheme is tailored to allow each girl to give of her personal best.
Girls can enter the award structure at any point that is age appropriate, meaning that an
individual who joins as a 2nd or 3rd year Explorer, or directly into an older section, will still be
able to work towards gaining awards with their peer group.
Explorers
The youngest section in Brigade, Explorers work towards gaining woven stars, bronze at the
end of her P1 year, silver at the end of P2 and gold at the end of her P3 year. These are
worn on an armband as shown below and can be purchased from GB Supplies.
Juniors
In the Junior section girls work towards a 1st Junior Circle at the end of P4, a 2nd Junior
Circle at the end of P5, a light blue Diamond at the end of P6 and a dark blue Diamond at
the end of P7.
If a girl has been an Explorer she may display the highest Explorer award gained on her
Junior armband alongside her Junior awards, as shown below, which can be purchased from
GB Supplies.
Details of the requirements to gain each award can be found in the appropriate programme
book.
28
Brigaders
Brigaders work towards 4 Triangle awards, gaining a different coloured award for each year
of achievement. These are worn on the armband alongside all Junior awards gained and
the highest Explorer award gained. After gaining four Brigader triangles, girls then work
towards achieving the Brigader Brooch, which cannot be awarded unless a girl has gained all
four triangles.
Please note that Brigader triangles can be purchased from GB Headquarters. When a girl
has gained enough points to qualify for her Brigader Brooch her progress book should be
submitted to the local Commissioner to sign off and it will be the Commissioner who supplies
the appropriate brooch and certificate to the company. These cannot be ordered directly
from GB Supplies.
Details of the requirements to gain each award can be found in the appropriate programme
book.
Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme
In addition, older girls are encouraged to participate in DofE, much of which is compatible
with the Brigade Award syllabus, meaning that work done within Girls’ Brigade Companies
can be credited towards gaining Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards. Details
of this are available on the GB website or from GB HQ.
Queen’s Award
The highest award within the Girls’ Brigade is Queen’s Award, attainable for girls and young
leaders aged 16 – 25. This award is run on a modular basis, allowing young women to
undertake the various elements at a time which suits them in respect of work or further
education. The award also includes a QA Residential weekend. Full details of the Queen’s
Award are available on the GB website or from GB HQ.
Shown above, is a full armband where a girl has been a member of GB since she was an
Explorer. This demonstrates where all awards should be worn.
Service Awards – Girls
These can be earned by all members of the company, can be purchased from GB Supplies,
and are awarded as follows:
Blue service award is gained by those who have 75% attendance at company meetings
and Church service or Sunday School.
Red service award is gained by those who have 75% attendance at company meetings.
In the first two years of service the award is given in the form of a star and after three years
a brooch is given and this is updated for each full year of service thereafter, with only the
most current brooch being worn on the armband.
29
Service Awards – Officers
These awards are for commissioned officers who have completed 10, 20, 30 or 40 years of
service. The awards should be ordered from GB HQ (main office) and not Supplies.
There is a special form which should be completed and returned with the appropriate
remittance. This form is available from the GB website or from GB HQ.
For clarification - Service Awards can only be applied for by those who have the correct
number of active service years. Active is defined as being involved in company, division or
national service on a consistent and regular basis where fees are paid either by the individual,
company or division.
For those who are not active in this way but who want to retain their membership of Girls’
Brigade a new Associates category has been developed and membership fees can be paid by
the individual, company or Division. This information will be recorded on the company or
Divisional returns so that GB HQ can maintain details of the Associates on their database with a
view to them receiving a copy of the newsletter, a copy of the annual report and an invitation to
register for the AGM or any other suitable GB event.
Name Badges
These are not awards but each person working as a leader, commissioned or Auxiliary, must
wear a name badge as part of our Child Protection requirements. These should be ordered from
GB HQ (main office) and not Supplies. There is a special form which should be completed
and returned with the appropriate remittance. This form is available from the GB website or
from GB HQ.
Endurance Award
The criteria for this award was revised by the Executive in April 2011. Copies of this were
sent to all companies at that time but for convenience this can be accessed at the back of
this guide, under appendix III.
Nominations for UK Honours
If any company wishes to nominate a leader for an award such as an MBE, etc they should
visit the appropriate website which at the time of preparing this guide is:
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/UKgovernment/Honoursawardsan
dmedals/TheUKHonourssystem/index.htm
This website provides all the necessary information on how to go about this. Please note
that it is a fairly complex process to nominate an individual for such an award and that the
whole process may take a long time without any guarantee of success. It is, however,
worth taking the time to do this as many of our members have already received awards,
which highlights the positive work of The Girls’ Brigade. It should be noted that GB HQ will
not undertake to make the nomination on behalf of any individual leader as their role comes
at a later stage via the appropriate Government office when a nomination is being
considered.
30
Camps, Holidays and Camp Training
Please note that all Camp related training and processes are being reviewed but
the current information shown below is correct at the time of issuing this guide.
It is hoped that the new camp training and processes for registering to run
camps, etc, will be ready prior to the start of the 2013-14 session.
Applications to take girls away on a residential basis, which can be any of the experiences
listed below, should be made, using one of the forms listed below, to GB HQ. Forms are
available from the website, for registered leaders, or from GB HQ.



Indoor camp
Canvas camp
Residential Experience
● Junior weekend camp
● Sleepover
Additional forms which are available:




Information on adults attending camp form
Parent/Guardian’s ‘camp’ consent form
Parents/Guardian’s ‘one night sleepover’ consent form
Hazardous activities form
The requirements detailed on each of these forms must be met, particularly in respect of
ratio of girls to leaders, child protection requirements and camp qualifications
Camp Qualifications
Camper
Campers’ training is open to all commissioned officers. The objective of the training is to
equip leaders with skills that will make them aware of the needs of girls in a different
environment and how to work as part of the Camp Team. The course includes a food
handling certificate which is suitable for Girls’ Brigade camps.
The course is normally run over 2 days, one night, at an appropriate venue. After the
course the trainee camper must attend a camp within one year of attending the training to
demonstrate that she can work as a useful member of the organising team.
Currently, the Campers Certificate does not need to be renewed.
Camp Co-ordinator
After gaining experience at camps, a camper may train to run her own camp. The Camp
Co-ordinator has overall responsibility for everything that happens at the camp but is not
required to do everything and the ability to delegate to other members of the Camp Team is
essential.
After the training course the prospective Camp Co-ordinator should plan a camp in Scotland
within a year of attending the course. A member of the camp training team will be
appointed to assess the trainee and ensure that the camp goes to plan.
Currently, the Camp Co-ordinator certificate has a life span of 5 years. However, if you
camp regularly within 5 years it will be kept live. If you do not camp within a 5 year period
you will require to attend a further course to re-register.
31
Canvas Camp Training
Training courses are offered by the Camp Group, as
course to gain detailed knowledge of the differences
Canvas Camp certificate is also for 5 years. However, if
will be kept live. If you do not camp within a 5 year
further course to re-register.
appropriate. Trainees attend this
that a canvas camp entails. The
you camp regularly within 5 years it
period you will require to attend a
Residential Experience
A residential experience is where Officers take the girls to a staffed venue where food,
accommodation, activities etc. are arranged for you, e.g. hotel, holiday camp, activity
centre. An Officer organising a Residential Experience is responsible for making initial
arrangements, ensuring the well being of girls, producing a programme for the activity, etc.
This is currently an option that can be undertaken as one of the Basic Officer Training
Options.
Camping at Tayview Lodges, Guay
Following completion of the new lodges at Guay, the Executive was asked to consider the
position in respect of what camp qualifications were required for a camp, particularly at a
time when Camp Training and the various processes are being reviewed. All members were
advised in February 2012 of the decisions noted below, which will remain in effect until
otherwise notified by GB HQ.
Extract from Executive Report – February 2012

It was agreed that if using GBS insurance, i.e. applying via GB HQ for permission to take
girls away, 2 leaders would be required per lodge in terms of supervision. If
companies choose to use their own insurance they will be reminded that 2 leaders per
lodge is recommended as good practice but that we cannot enforce this.

The question has also been raised about whether GB companies using Guay require a
camper’s qualification or a residential experience qualification. Assuming that companies
apply to GB HQ for insurance cover for such a trip, it was agreed that they should hold
either a campers or residential experience qualification. This will be a temporary
solution until such times as Camp/Residential Training is reviewed within GBS.

It was agreed that companies can use marquees at Guay providing they arranged for
them to be erected, dismantled and dried and that companies meet the full costs of this.
The marquee would be sited in consultation with the Centre Manager.

Camping/DoE groups can now book the field from 2 April until 29 October 2012.
Bookings should be made via the Centre Manager, details as shown above. Temporary
toilet facilities will be available on site during this period.
32
Insurance and Risk Management
Why do we need insurance?
Insurance is something we are all familiar with in our lives, either for home, car or travel,
and we recognise the importance of adequate cover to protect us from financial loss. The
same is true in Girls’ Brigade Scotland as we seek to provide cover for all members, our
staff, equipment and properties. We do this through our annual insurance policy, which is
covered by the annual membership fee paid by each girl and leader. This is one of the key
reasons we ask Captains to ensure that they complete details of all leaders and accurately
record the number of girls in each section as, in the event of a claim, we must hold accurate
records.
What is covered by the GBS insurance policy?
Shown below is a basic list of what is covered by the annual insurance policy:











Buildings insurance for the properties we own, including property damage insurance
Contents insurance for the properties we own
Contents insurance for the equipment, machinery, trophies, archive material, etc,
held at Headquarters
Insurance cover for the cost of leasing an alternative HQ office for a 2 year period
following an emergency that rendered the current building unusable
Business interruption insurance for a period of 12 months
Insurance cover for stock held in Supplies
Insurance cover for taking stock out of Supplies for local or national events
Insurance for Supplies goods, awards, etc while in transit
Employers Liability cover to the value of £10 million – this covers the work of
volunteers undertaking normal Company activities unless involved in hazardous
activities, where an extra premium may be payable. This also covers the staff
employed by the organisation as they undertake their duties.
Insurance to cover legal defence costs in respect claims made against the
organisation
Abuse cover to the value of £1million in respect of damages and costs that could
arise from a claim against the organisation
What is not covered by the GBS insurance policy?





Hazardous Activities, as noted on the GB website and appropriate registrations form.
Currently, a special premium requires to be paid for this to our insurers and must be
requested at the time of registering your camp or activity.
Personal items or clothing belonging to girls or leaders
Items stored in church halls, cupboards or other storage facilities (discuss the need
for insurance with your local church or hall provider)
Items pertaining to GB activities which have been stored in a leader’s home (check
with your home insurance provider if this applies to you)
Any camp or holiday that is not registered with, and has not received approval from,
GB HQ (Captains must ensure that if they do not use GB insurance for this they
MUST take out a separate insurance policy for their girls and should advise parents
that the cover is not being provided by Girls’ Brigade Scotland but by a separate
body.)
33
Risk Assessment
The Oxford Dictionary defines risk as:




A situation involving exposure to danger, harm or loss of an individual(s) or item(s)
The possibility that something unpleasant or unwelcome will happen
A possibility of harm or damage against something which is insured
The possibility of financial loss
In GBS we train our leaders at Basic Training to consider risk in respect of all activities they
undertake for GB at company nights, special activities, camps, etc. This is not just about
protecting girls from harming themselves while cooking or white water rafting but also about
the impact on others along with the financial sustainability of events, etc.
What do we mean by Risk Management?
Managing risk is something that must be done prior to all company camps, trips, etc. If you
take the time to assess the likelihood of all the potential things that can go wrong and the
impact if this should happen you can then identify potential solutions to problems before
they arise then you are well on the way to being prepared for all eventualities. It is also
good practice to carry out a risk assessment of the premises where you meet at the start of
each session to identify any potential hazards. Similarly, doing a general risk assessment of
programme activities prior to the start of the session can be useful.
A risk assessment form can be found on the GB website or is available from GB HQ. Please
ensure that you use this as necessary.
Remember: Risk assessment is NOT about preventing you from doing activities
as part of your GB programme but is about protecting girls and leaders from
harm so that you can enjoy events to the full.
Again, please remember that you can contact GB HQ for further advice on this is required.
34
Divisions
There are currently 22 Divisions in GBS. These are:
Aberdeen
Angus
Borders
Buchan
Central
Dumbarton & Clydebank
Dumfries & Galloway
Dundee & Perth
Edinburgh
Fife
Greater Glasgow
Hamilton & Lanark
Highland
Inverclyde
Midlothian
Monklands
Motherwell
North Ayr
Renfrew
South Ayr
West Lothian
Wishaw
Detailed information on the role of the Commissioner, Divisional Office Bearers, Divisional
meetings, etc can be found at appendix I, GB Regulations, at the back of this guide. If after
reading this you should require further information please do not hesitate to contact GB HQ.
35
Equal Opportunities and Complaints
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is committed to equal opportunities for staff and volunteers
and a policy document, including a complaints procedure was drawn up and circulated to
companies in August 2011. A full copy of this is available at Appendix V in this guide.
In the May 2012 mailing, companies were reminded that this policy applies equally to
volunteers and staff. Company Captains and Commissioners are asked to ensure that all
leaders have the opportunity to read this policy to make themselves familiar with the
content. This policy is to protect both leaders and staff from discrimination, abuse or
harassment, etc and the Executive has asked that everyone is reminded of the policy and
that failure to comply with it will result in appropriate action being taken.
36
APPENDIX I
THE COMPANIES ACT 1985
COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE AND
NOT HAVING A SHARE CAPITAL
REGULATIONS
of
THE GIRLS’ BRIGADE IN SCOTLAND
[These should be read in conjunction with the Memorandum & Articles of
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland]
Issued July 2008
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTERPRETATION .................................................................................................................. 2
1
AIM ............................................................................................................................... 2
2
PRINCIPLES................................................................................................................ 1
3
METHOD...................................................................................................................... 2
4
MEMBERSHIP ............................................................................................................. 2
5
THE COMPANY .......................................................................................................... 2
6
MEMBERSHIP OF COMPANIES ................................................................................ 4
7
APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS.................................................................................. 4
8
COMPANY FUNDS ..................................................................................................... 5
9
DIVISIONS ................................................................................................................... 7
10
DIVISIONAL OFFICE BEARERS ............................................................................... 9
11
DIVISIONAL COMMISSIONER ................................................................................. 11
12
DIVISIONAL FUNDS AND PROPERTY ................................................................... 11
13
BRIGADE COUNCIL …………………………………………………………………… 12
14
CHILD PROTECTION
15
TRAINING…………………………………………………………………………………. 15
16
UNIFORM…………………………………………………………………………………...16
i
………………………………………………………… 15
Interpretation
In these Regulations, words and phrases defined in the Articles of Association of The Girls’ Brigade in
Scotland shall have the same meanings herein unless the context otherwise requires.
In addition, the following words and phrases have the meanings set opposite them as follows:Girls’ Brigade Scotland or GBS.
1
Aim
The Brigade is part of an international and inter-denominational Christian organisation whose object is to
help girls become followers of the Lord Jesus Christ and through self control, reverence and a sense of
responsibility find true enrichment of life.
2
Principles
The Brigade shall adhere and expects all of its members to adhere to the following principles:-
The Brigade acknowledges Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord according to the Scriptures and seeks to
fulfil its aim to the glory of one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
The Brigade witnesses to the standards set by Jesus Christ and gives positive teaching and a Christian
attitude to life.
The Brigade promotes a just society where all people are equally valued.
3
Method
The Brigade shall seek to fulfil its objects in accordance with its principles through the method. The
work of The Brigade shall be conducted through Companies each of which will be connected with a
church or mission of a recognised Christian denomination. Every member shall be encouraged to attend
church , bible class or Sunday school or other place of worship which may be approved by the
Executive.
The Brigade shall provide activities designed to help girls to attain physical, mental,
emotional and spiritual maturity and shall encourage them to employ their knowledge and practical
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
service in the home, the community and the church. The Brigade shall have an approved badge and an
approved uniform.
4
Membership
The membership of the Brigade shall be organised in Companies in accordance with these Regulations.
Companies may be grouped into Divisions. The leadership of The Brigade shall form the Brigade
Council in which each Company shall be entitled to one vote in accordance with the Articles of
Association and these Regulations.
5
The Company
5.1
The basic unit of The Brigade shall be the Company. Companies shall be enrolled by the
Executive Group in accordance with these Regulations.
5.2
A Company shall be sponsored by a church or mission of a recognised Christian denomination
which expresses a desire to use The Brigade Method to assist its outreach to young people and
accepts responsibility for the affairs and finance of the Company.
5.3
Every Company shall be led by a Captain, aged 21 years or over, who shall be a member of a
Christian church or mission and shall be nominated by the church or mission with which the
Company is associated and commissioned by the Executive Group following appropriate
training. The Captain of each Company shall be entitled to recommend to the church or mission
with whom the Company is associated, the appointment of Officers of the Company in
accordance with these Regulations and recommend Honorary Officers of the Company, but the
final decision lies with the church or mission. Any Honorary Officers so appointed would not
normally be active members of a Company and shall not exercise any authority within the
Company.
Each Company shall have a Chaplain who shall be appointed by the church or mission with whom the
Company is associated and shall be an ordained minister, member of the diaconate, a lay preacher or a
member of the governing body of a church or mission where the former categories do not apply.
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
5.4
Other Officers, who shall be known as Lieutenants, may be appointed to assist the Captain in
the leadership of the Company. Any such persons shall:
a)
Have attained the age of 18;
b)
Be a member or adherent of a church or mission to which the Company is associated or
of another Christian church or mission;
c)
Have attended such training as may be required from time to time by the Executive
Group;
d)
Be recommended as suitable by the governing body of the church or mission to which
the Company is associated;
5.5
e)
Have agreed to abide by the constitution of The Brigade from time to time; and
f)
Is approved by the Executive Group for appointment to the Company concerned.
At meetings of the Brigade Council all enrolled Officers of each Company shall be entitled to
attend and speak. Each Company shall have one vote. The Company vote shall be exercised
by the Company Captain in accordance with the provisions as to voting set out in the Articles of
Association and in Paragraph 5 of these Regulations.
6
Membership of Companies
Membership of Companies shall be open to girls who have agreed to comply with the rules of The
Brigade from time to time. Membership shall be in accordance with the following provisions as to age:-
a)
Young people shall not be admitted to membership until they have started attendance,
or are eligible to start, in full time education in Primary One and shall, normally, cease to
be members at the end of the session in which they complete or would have completed
Secondary 6 had they remained at school after the school leaving age.
b)
Companies shall be divided into groups known by the following names:-
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
i)
Young people in primaries One, Two and Three, or of the equivalent age –
Explorers.
ii)
Those in primaries Four, Five, Six and Seven, or of the equivalent age –
Juniors.
iii)
Those in secondary school or of the equivalent Secondary School age –
Brigaders.
7
Appointment of Officers
The church to which Officers and Auxiliary Helpers are attached is responsible for the appointment of
individuals ensuring that they have undertaken the appropriate processes of selection and Child
Protection as laid down by The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland, which must meet all statutory requirement of
the Scottish Government. Full details of these can be viewed in the ‘Protecting Young People in Our
Care’ Handbook and in the Company Leaders Handbook.
8
Company Funds
8.1
Each Company shall appoint a Company Treasurer who shall be responsible for the funds and
assets of the Company. All cash shall be deposited in a bank account operated by not less than
two signatories of whom one shall be the Treasurer and at least one shall be an officer of the
Company.
Where assets are held by a Company, the trustees shall be the Captain, the
Chaplain and the Treasurer for the time being unless specific provision otherwise for not less
than three trustees is made at the time of acquisition of the asset. Alternatively, assets may be
held by the Executive Group on behalf of individual companies in accordance with provisions
made by the Executive Group from time to time.
8.2
In future two systems will operate within The Brigade to ensure compliance with regulations and
the security of Company finances. These are as follows:
A Company or Division registered with The Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator, (OSCR) as
a charity and holding their own charity number.
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
A Company or Division may register with OSCR as a charity and receive its own charity number.
Charitable status is required if the Girls’ Brigade Company apply for rates relief on their property
or claim Gift Aid on contributions or donations made to the Company.
Companies registered with OSCR as a charity are required to comply with the annual
requirements of OSCR and the rules and regulations governing a charity.
Once a Company registers with OSCR de-registration is possible. However, in the terms of
charities legislation OSCR must continue to monitor the funds of the body which was previously
a charity and, therefore, the Company would continue to be answerable to OSCR and would
have to submit returns and accounts
Companies who have not registered as Charities in Scotland
(a)
Have the option of registering with OSCR. OR
(b)
Can continue to operate as a voluntary organisation, which is not a charity.
Companies can choose not to be a charity but must not identify themselves as charities in any
fundraising activity. They may fundraise for a third party which is a charity, e.g. Cancer
Research UK, Children’s Hospice Association, Girls’ Brigade, etc. However, Companies must
still not identify themselves as a charity.
In order to ensure proper oversight of Brigade Company funds, where the Company is not
registered as a charity The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland has agreed the following
recommendations:

Following the end of the financial year each Girls’ Brigade Company shall prepare a
statement of receipts and payments.

This statement of accounts shall be presented to the Kirk Session or Congregational
Board of the church congregation to which the Company is affiliated to no later than six
months from the end of the financial year of the Girls’ Brigade Company concerned.
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
The Company shall supply to the Kirk Session or Congregational Board such additional
information as may be requested following the submission of the accounts.
In addition, every Girls’ Brigade Company will require to complete a new section in the Annual
Returns. This will ask for information on when the last set of receipts and payments were
submitted to the church and who they were checked by.
9
Divisions
Subject to the approval of the Executive Group as to the name and boundaries, five or more adjacent
companies in an area may combine together to constitute a Division under a mutually agreed name and
in accordance with the provisions of these Regulations.
9.1
Each Division shall be administered by a Council, the members of which shall be the Officers
and Chaplains of each Company in the Division together with the Office Bearers of the Division
for the time being. The functions of the Division shall be to promote the general interests of The
Brigade in the Divisional area, to make regulations for the effective management of the Division,
to support and oversee the work of The Brigade in the Divisional area and if the Executive
Group shall so delegate its powers, to enrol new companies within the Divisional area. The
Divisional Council may also determine and collect from each Company within the Divisional area
such annual contribution to Divisional funds as the Divisional Council may determine.
9.2
The Divisional Council shall meet at such times and at such places as it may from time to time
determine and shall hold an annual meeting in each calendar year. The annual meeting shall
take place not later than 30 June in each year. The quorum at meetings of the Divisional Council
shall be the attendance of persons representing not less than 25% of the Companies within the
Divisional area.
9.3
The Divisional Council may appoint Office Bearers and a Divisional Executive as hereinafter
provided. The Divisional Council shall also be entitled to co-opt as members of the Divisional
Council, such additional member or members as they shall think fit provided that the number
thereof shall not exceed three at any one time. Each person so co-opted shall continue to be a
member of the Divisional Council until the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
Division next following his or her co-option. Any such member so retiring shall be eligible for
further co-option provided that no person shall be elected or act as a co-opted member of a
Divisional Council for a period in excess of six consecutive years.
9.4
Notice of each meeting of the Divisional Council should be given to every Company in the
Division either :-
a)
in writing posted to the Captain of each Company in the case of an Annual General
Meeting or a meeting called for the passing of a special resolution at least twenty one
days prior to the date of such meeting and in the case of an ordinary meeting at least
fourteen days prior to the date of such meeting; or
b)
in any other manner and with such prior notice as the Divisional Council may from time
to time determine. Every notice, however given, shall state the general nature of the
business to be transacted at the meeting.
Accidental omission to give notice of a
meeting to, or non receipt of notice by, any Company shall not invalidate the
proceedings at that meeting. Ordinary meetings of the Divisional Council shall be
convened by the Divisional Office Bearers or Divisional Executive as the case may be.
Extraordinary meetings of the Divisional Council may be convened by the Divisional
Office Bearers, the Divisional Executive or upon a request presented to the Divisional
Executive by not less than 25% of the Companies in the Division, such notice stating the
nature of the business to be transacted at the proposed extraordinary meeting.
10
Divisional Office Bearers
10.1
The Divisional Council shall elect a President, Chaplain, Commissioner, Treasurer and a
Secretary; (A Vice President and Deputy Commissioner may be elected if there are sufficient
numbers within the Division.) The term for the posts of President, Commissioner and Chaplain
are as at item 10.4 but Secretaries and Treasurers have no set term of office if desired by the
Division. An Office Bearer need not be an Officer or Chaplain in the Division, with the exception
of the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner. The offices of Secretary and Treasurer may be
combined. An Office Bearer may, by notice in writing, resign office at any time. A Divisional
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
Annual Meeting may also appoint an Honorary President and one or more Honorary VicePresidents of the Division who need not be Officers or Chaplains of any Company in the Division
but such persons appointed to Honorary Office shall, although entitled to attend and speak at
meetings of the Divisional Council, not be members of the Divisional Council nor members of
the Divisional Executive, nor Office Bearers of the Division.
10.2
The Divisional Council may appoint, if so advised, a Training Organiser, a Public Relations
Officer, a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Adviser or such other appointments as the Divisional
Council shall deem appropriate for carrying on the work of the Division.
Any person so
appointed may be invited to attend meetings of the Divisional Council and Divisional Executive
but shall not be entitled to vote in those capacities. Any such additional appointment may, with
the approval of the Divisions concerned, be made on a shared basis between or among two or
more Divisions.
10.3
If a Divisional Council shall so decide, they may appoint a Secretary and/or Treasurer on a
Contract of Employment and at such remuneration as the Divisional Executive shall determine
and upon such terms and conditions as shall be determined by the Divisional Executive from
time to time. Any person so appointed shall not be subject to any restrictions on appointment
which may apply in terms of these Regulations or in terms of the constitution of the Division.
10.4
Each Office Bearer (not being an Honorary Office Bearer) shall hold office for not more than six
consecutive years, having served for three years in the first term with the option to stand for a
further three and in the event that any person shall so serve for six consecutive years they may
not be re-elected to that same office until a period of not less than twelve calendar months have
elapsed since the conclusion of their last period of office.
10.5
The Office Bearers of the Division shall comprise, together with such additional persons as may
be elected by the Divisional Council, the Divisional Executive and shall exercise the powers and
functions of the Divisional Council between meetings of the Divisional Council. The decisions of
the Divisional Executive shall be subject to report and review by the Divisional Council. The
Divisional Executive may continue to act notwithstanding any vacancy in its number. The
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
Divisional Executive shall submit a report to each Annual Meeting of the Divisional Council of
their activities during the immediately preceding year ending on 31 March preceding the date of
the Annual Meeting and shall present a financial statement relating to that year, which has been
independently examined or audited in accordance with the provisions as to accounting by
charities which shall be extant from time to time.
11
Divisional Commissioner
The Commissioner, whom failing the Deputy Commissioner, if applicable, shall be responsible to the
Divisional Executive and the Executive Group for the effective running of the Division. She shall help
and enable the Officers in the Division faithfully to fulfil the responsibilities accepted by them in their
appointment as Officers. The Commissioner or a Deputy Commissioner shall before appointment be
approved of by the Executive Group and must have served at least three years with the Brigade as a
commissioned Officer before appointment as a Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner
a)
12
Larger Divisions may be divided into Districts and the Divisional Executive may appoint
a Commissioned Officer to act as Deputy Commissioner. The Deputy Commissioner
shall support the work of the Divisional Executive and Divisional Commissioner but the
District shall have no Office Bearers or constitutional existence beyond this grouping for
administrative purposes only. `
Divisional Funds and Property
12.1
The funds and property of the Divisional Council should be vested in the name of the Divisional
President, Commissioner and Treasurer for the time being on behalf of the Council and shall be
held and disposed of by them in accordance with the decisions of the Divisional Executive.
12.2
The Divisional Executive shall be entitled to invest the funds of the Divisional Council or any part
thereof at their sole discretion, but any cash shall be deposited in a bank account in name of the
Divisional Council, the signatories of which shall be not less than two members of the Divisional
Executive of whom the Treasurer shall be one.
12.3
The Divisional Executive shall be entitled on behalf of the Divisional Council to engage staff; to
deal in supplies and equipment; to receive any legacy, bequest, donation or subscription for the
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
purposes of the Divisional Council; to purchase, take on lease or otherwise acquire any property
heritable or moveable; to sell, lease or otherwise dispose of any property; and to borrow and/or
secure the payment of money thereon on terms determined by them; the Office Bearers in
whose name any such property shall stand shall grant such document or documents as shall be
required by the Divisional Executive.
12.4
The Divisional Council shall be responsible for its own financial obligations and no other part of
The Brigade nor any Company not part of the Division shall incur any liability arising there from.
13
Brigade Council
13.1
The affairs of The Brigade shall be controlled by the Brigade Council which shall be comprised
of Officers of The Brigade as set out in the Articles of Association. Decisions of the Brigade
Council shall be binding upon every member thereof and upon every Company, Divisional
Council, Divisional Executive, and upon the Executive Group
13.2
The Brigade Council shall meet as required on dates and at times and places determined by the
Executive Group and shall hold their Annual Meeting not later than 30 September in each
calendar year.
13.3
The Executive Group shall exercise and be responsible to the Brigade Council for the
supervision and control of the policy and affairs of The Brigade.
Without prejudice to the
foregoing generality the Executive Group shall be responsible to the Brigade Council for the
exercise of the following powers and functions:-
a)
To regulate the enrolment of companies;
b)
To regulate the training of and to commission prospective Officers who have been
nominated by the church or mission with which the Company is associated;
c)
To promote, encourage and assist in the training of officers;
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
d)
To cancel, for such reason or reasons as the Executive Group in their sole discretion
shall think fit, the enrolment of any company or the appointment of any Officer but in
each case such power of cancellation shall be exercised only after consultation with:-
e)
i)
The church or mission with which the Company is associated; and
ii)
The Divisional Executive concerned;
To alter or adjust the name or names of the area or areas or any boundary or
boundaries of any Division or Divisions;
f)
To dissolve any Division and the Council and Executive thereof; and to determine any
questions arising out of any alterations, adjustment or dissolution;
g)
To determine and collect from each Company such annual contribution to the funds of
The Brigade as the Executive Group shall from time to time determine.
h)
The Executive Group shall be entitled to co-opt such additional member or members not
exceeding three in number as it shall think fit. Each person so co-opted shall continue
to be a member of the Executive Group until the conclusion of the Annual General
Meeting of the Brigade Council next following after his or her co-option. Any such
member shall be eligible at the first meeting of the Executive Group following after the
Annual General Meeting of the Brigade Council to be so co-opted again provided that
no person shall act as a co-opted member for a period in excess of six consecutive
years. Any person so co-opted may, by notice in writing to the National Director, resign
his or her membership at any time.
i)
The Executive Group shall meet a minimum of four times between the conclusion of
each Annual General Meeting of the Brigade Council and the commencement of the
next Annual General Meeting. A quorum of the Executive Group shall consist of 75% of
persons.
The Executive Group shall meet for the conduct of the business of the
Executive Group and shall regulate their proceedings as they shall think fit and they
shall be entitled to delegate such of their powers and functions to a Group or Groups as
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
they shall think fit. The membership of and the remit of Groups shall be determined by
the Executive Group but each Group shall include at least one member of the Executive
Group on the 5 Static Groups (Camp, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Mission, Property and
Training). Project Groups do not require an Executive member to be in attendance but
will have a link to the Executive via a designated member of the Executive. Groups shall
be responsible for reporting their proceedings to the Executive Group.
j)
The Executive Group may continue to act notwithstanding any vacancy in its number. It
shall be entitled at any time to fill a casual vacancy in the Executive Group. Any person
so appointed shall hold office until the conclusion of the Annual Meeting of the Brigade
Council next following their appointment but may resign at any time by notice in writing
to the National Director. The National President, the National Vice-Presidents, the
National Chaplain, and the National Treasurer shall constitute the Office Bearers of the
Brigade Council.
14
Child Protection
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is committed to meeting all statutory requirements as laid down
by the Scottish Government. Currently, the organisation is working to the Protection of Children
(Scotland) 2003 Act, which was implemented on 10 January 2005.
(It is noted that the
Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) 2007 has been accepted but is not due to be
implemented until late 2009 at which time new guidance will be provided to Companies.)
As part of the Protection of Children (Scotland) Act 2003 The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland has
provided the following:

Policies and Procedures on Child Protection Policy

Good Practice Guidelines

Registration and Membership processes for new leaders

Health and Safety Guidelines
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980

Training to leaders
Full details of this can be found in the ‘Protecting Young People in Our Care’ Handbook and the
Company Leaders Handbook. [Note; Now the Leaders’ Resource Guide – June 2012]
15
Training Requirements
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland provides training for girls, via Leadership I, II and III. For those
wishing to become Commissioned Officers there is a defined training course, which is offered at
local level. This must be undertaken before an Officer can be appointed and commissioned. In
addition, specialised trainings are offered at both local and national level. Full details of the
trainings offered are provided in the Company Leaders Handbook.
16
Uniform
Uniform requirements are as follows:
Explorers:
Red Crested Sweatshirt
White Crested Polo-shirt
Regulation, plain, navy skirt, elasticised waistband
Long hair tied back with a plain white hair band
White socks - (ankle/knee length: Divisional decision)
Black Shoes
Small (narrow) armband, with company title, service award & explorer awards Bronze/Silver/Gold star
Navy zipped waterproof jacket may be worn as an additional extra, if desired
Small, gold stud earrings allowed
Suitable for Activities: Navy jogging bottoms/navy trousers, trainers
Juniors:
Royal Blue Crested Sweatshirt
White Crested Polo shirt
Regulation, plain, navy skirt, elasticised waistband
Long hair tied back with a plain white hair band
White socks - (ankle/knee length: Divisional decision)
Black Shoes
Armband, with company title, service award & applicable awards - Explorer Stars / Junior
Circles/Diamonds
Navy zipped waterproof jacket may be worn as an additional extra, if desired
Small, gold stud earrings allowed
Suitable for Activities: Navy jogging bottoms/navy trousers, trainers
Camp Uniform: As standard uniform detailed above, no armband. Activities: as above
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
Brigaders :
Navy Blue Crested Sweatshirt
Gold Crested Polo shirt
Regulation, plain, straight navy skirt with an inverted pleat (knee length)
Long hair tied back with a plain navy hair band
Plain, black tights
Plain Black Shoes, maximum 1.5” heel, no stiletto
Armband, with company title, service award & applicable awards, as follows: Explorer Stars /
Junior Circles & Diamonds / Brigader Triangles / Brigader Brooch / Duke of Edinburgh’s Award /
Queen’s Award
Chevron(s) should be worn on right arm of sweatshirt, which should be sewn on the outside
edge of the right-hand sweatshirt sleeve, just above the cuff with the V pointing down to the
ground)
Navy zipped waterproof jacket may be worn as an additional extra, if desired
Small, gold stud earrings allowed
For Warrant Officers:
Navy Blue Crested Sweatshirt
Gold Crested Polo shirt
Regulation, plain, straight navy skirt with an inverted pleat (knee length)
Long hair tied back with a plain navy hair band
Plain, black tights
Plain Black Shoes, maximum 1.5” heel, no stiletto
Armband, with company title, service award & applicable awards, as follows: Explorer Stars /
Junior Circles & Diamonds / Brigader Triangles / Brigader Brooch / Duke of Edinburgh’s Award /
Queen’s Award
Chevron(s) should be worn on right arm (where applicable)
Navy zipped waterproof jacket may be worn as an additional extra, if desired
Small, gold stud earrings allowed
Chevron(s) should be worn on right arm of sweatshirt, which should be sewn on the outside
edge of the right-hand sweatshirt sleeve, just above the cuff with the V pointing down to the
ground)
Warrant Officer badge should be worn above Brigade% badge
Suitable for Activities: Navy jogging bottoms/navy trousers, trainers
Camp Uniform: As standard uniform detailed above, no armband. Activities: as above
Officers:
Regulation, navy suit (collarless jacket, plain, straight skirt with inverted pleat).
White, shirt style blouse (short or long sleeves), with a personal option of:
Open-necked, with The Girls’ Brigade collar badge on right collar.
OR
Close-necked, with The Girls’ Brigade collar badge in centre.
Navy ribbon or hair-band.
Navy tights.
Plain, navy court shoes (not suede) maximum 1.5” heel, no stiletto.
Navy gloves are optional.
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
Badges, as at present, President/Chaplain/Auxiliary/Lieutenant/Captain/ Deputy Commissioner
/Commissioner, to be worn on a bar on left side of suit jacket. (This may have name, title and
company name on it)
No hat except where the governing body within the church deems it’s necessary.
Navy zipped waterproof jacket may be worn as an additional extra, if desired
Small, plain, gold stud earrings allowed.
Plain gold chain may be worn with open necked blouse.
Navy bar or half-bar for Officers awards to be worn on left hand breast of jacket e.g. rank, Duke
of Edinburgh's Award, Queen’s Award, etc.
Name badges, worn above badge bar, for purposes of Child Protection regulations.
Plain, Navy shoulder bag, when not on parade.
Suitable for Activities: Navy Crested Sweatshirt; White Crested Polo Shirt, Navy Jogging
Bottoms/ Navy Trousers, White Trainers.
Camp Uniform: Navy Crested Sweatshirt, White Crested Polo Shirt, Navy knee-length Skirt,
Navy Tights, Navy Shoes. Activities: as above.
All sections and Officers:
No hat or head covering should be worn except where it is a requirement of the church or
mission to which the Company is attached.
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
APPENDIX II
THE GIRLS’ BRIGADE IN SCOTLAND
FINANCIAL ARRANGMENTS AND COMPLIANCE WITH THE OFFICE OF
THE SCOTTISH CHARITY REGULATOR (OSCR)
Following the issuing of guidance to Church of Scotland Congregational Treasurers regarding
compliance with the requirements of OSCR by the Church’s finance department discussions have been
held with the Church of Scotland and representatives of The Girls’ and Boys’ Brigade and also with
OSCR regarding the status of BB Companies. As a result of these discussions certain requirements of
the 2005 Charities Act and subsequent regulations have been clarified.
Companies previously enjoyed an arrangement with the Church, which included some form of
independent examination of accounts and in some cases inclusion of a short statement in the Church’s
accounts.
As a result of the new arrangements, including the registration with OSCR of every individual
congregation as a Charity, the following guidance is offered to GB Companies in Scotland.
It should be understood that under Scottish Charity Law, a church cannot include any organisation not
bound by the Church’s own constitution in their formal accounts.
Therefore, The Girls’ Brigade,
which has its own national constitution, cannot be included in the congregational accounts. A GB
Company is affiliated to and not a component element of the congregation.
Any funds raised by The Girls’ Brigade Company can only be used for certain purposes and systems
must be in place to ensure the correct use of, and the accounting for these funds.
In future two systems will operate within the Brigade to ensure compliance with regulations and the
security of Company finances.
2. A Company or Division registered with OSCR as a Charity and holding their own
Charity number.
A Company or Division may (and many have) register with OSCR as a Charity and receive its own
charity number.
Charitable status is required if the Company apply for rates relief on their
property or claim Gift aid on contributions or donations made to the Company.
Companies registered with OSCR as a Charity are required to comply with the annual
requirements of OSCR and the rules and regulations governing a Charity.
Once a Company registers with OSCR de-registration is possible. However, in the terms of
Charities legislation OSCR must continue to monitor the funds of the body which was
previously a charity and, therefore, the Company would continue to be answerable to OSCR
and would have to submit returns and accounts.
3. Companies who have not registered as Charities in Scotland.
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
Same question re spacing and bolding as above
(a)
Have the option of registering with OSCR.
OR
(b)
Can continue to operate as a voluntary organisation, which is not a charity.
Companies can choose not to be a charity.

Companies must not identify themselves as charities in any fundraising
activity. They may fundraise for a third party which is a charity, e.g. Cancer
Research UK, Children’s Hospice Association, Girls’ Brigade Scotland, etc.
However, Companies must still not identify themselves as a charity.
In order to ensure proper oversight of Brigade Company funds, where the Company is not
registered as a Charity, the Church of Scotland and The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland have
agreed the following recommendations.
1.
Following the end of the financial year each Girls’ Brigade Company shall prepare a statement
of receipts and payments.
2.
This statement of accounts shall be presented to the Kirk Session or Congregational Board of
the church congregation to which the Company is affiliated to no later than six months from
the end of the financial year of the Girls’ Brigade Company concerned.
4.
The Company shall supply to the Kirk Session or Congregational Board such additional
information as may be requested following the submission of the accounts.
Attached, as appendix 1 is the recommended format in which the statement of receipts and payments
accounts should be prepared.
All Companies
In addition, every Girls’ Brigade Company will require to complete a new section in the Annual Returns
as from 2008. This will ask for information on when the last set of receipts and payments were
submitted to the Church and who they were checked by.
Caroline Goodfellow
National Director
July 2008
Note: Appendix 1, as referred to above, can be found on the GB website under the Leaders section.
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
Appendix III
THE GIRLS’ BRIGADE IN SCOTLAND
Revised guidelines for application for Endurance Award – April 2011
This award is for girls or young leaders who:
•
endure extended periods of illness or live with a condition that requires in patient hospital care
and/or surgery on an ongoing basis
•
have a condition that is life threatening or life limiting
•
have a severe physical or mental impairment
Note:
Conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, coeliac disease, myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), and narcolepsy
would not normally be considered for this award as these are all conditions that can be well managed
on a long term basis with appropriate medical care. This does not devalue the distress and challenges
that those who have these illnesses face but the Endurance Award is not appropriate for them and it
may be that individual companies would wish to recognise their girls or young leaders in an alternative
manner.
Before applying for an Award
Captains should contact the National Director at GB HQ to have an informal discussion about the
nature of the condition endured by the girl or young leader. This should be undertaken prior to any
discussion with the girl or her parents/guardian. This allows Captains to discuss suitability without
causing any distress to the girl or her family if they are advised not to apply.
Applying for an Award
Assuming that it has been agreed that an application should be made the following items should be
sent to the National Director who will then table this at the next Executive meeting.
•
•
•
•
A letter from the Captain stating the reasons for application
A letter from the parent/guardian giving consent for the application to be made
A letter or medical report from the girl’s Consultant, GP or other appropriate person giving brief
details of the condition, treatment, impact on day to day living, etc
Any additional material that is deemed suitable to support the application, e.g. report from
Medical Social Worker, Carer, etc.
Notification about the outcome of application
After a decision has been made by the Executive the National Director will advise the Captain that it
has been successful or the reasons why it has been declined. This will be within 10 working days of
the Executive meeting. Captains should note that the decision of the Executive is final.
Presentation of Award
Endurance Awards are normally presented by the National President or one of the National VicePresidents at a company event, e.g. Parents Evening, Church Service, etc. When the National Director
contacts the Captain to advise about the application she will discuss the possible dates for
presentation and will arrange for it to be presented.
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
Appendix IV
THE GIRLS’ BRIGADE IN SCOTLAND
UPDATE ON PROTECTION OF VULNERABLE GROUPS SCHEME – MAY 2012
As you are aware, PVG replaced the previous child protection system on 28 February 2011. We are
now in year 2 of the scheme when it had been hoped to implement retrospective checking, etc, but
there have been some delays to this. Noted below is the latest information on PVG and how it affects
Girls’ Brigade leaders.

New Leaders – Applications for PVG scheme membership are being processed by all the
denominations in the normal way. This means that ALL new leaders, i.e. those who are being
commissioned, joining as Auxiliaries or are Warrant Officers aged 18 or over need to undertake
this process. There is no change to the policy which requires all new leaders to
undertake Disclosure checks prior to working in the company.

When will retrospective checking begin? This was due to start on 28 February 2012 but has
been postponed at present. When we receive notification about this we will advise companies of
how the system will work as this will be a process spanning a long period as the various
denominations require time to process large volumes of applications.

How will this work? The process will begin with those who have never had any form of
Enhanced Disclosure check undertaken and who are currently working with children and young
people. Then there will be a process of transferring those with current Enhanced Disclosures
(under the old system) onto the new PVG Scheme. Again, companies will be advised of how the
process will work when the information is made available to us.

How can you help with this? If you haven’t already completed and sent back the Disclosure
Audit form issued earlier in the year can you please do so now. This is allowing us to update our
records and to prepare a plan on how to implement retrospective checking in a phased approach.
This also helps the various denominations, particularly the Church of Scotland Safeguarding office
who carry out the bulk of our checks for us.

Child Protection Training – It is a requirement that all leaders who are being commissioned as
leaders in GBS should undertake this training prior as part of their training and before being
commissioned. The majority of denominations offer CP training in local areas and companies are
advised to ask their Church Safeguarding Coordinator or Child Protection Officer about the
availability of these courses. Churches are responsible for the appointment of leaders, both
commissioned and auxiliaries, and are therefore responsible for ensuring that they receive Child
Protection training as part of this process before working with girls. It is noted that some
companies have leaders from various denominations and it is hoped that each denomination will
respect the training provided by another church. If you experience difficulties with this please
advise GB HQ. Currently GBS does not offer Child Protection training at this level.

Warrant Officers – Previously, companies had been advised to get young leaders checked in the
months prior to their 18th birthday but this is not possible at present due to capacity issues with
the system at Disclosure Scotland. Companies are asked to hold these checks back until the
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
young leader is 2/3 weeks away from their 18th birthday so that Church Safeguarding Coordinators
can process them at the appropriate time.

DoE/Queen’s Award Service – Some girls undertake service activities which require an
Enhanced Disclosure before they are permitted to take up the position. Some examples are
working in a nursery, care home for the elderly, etc. Currently, this will not normally be processed
by the various denominations if girls are under 18 years of age and it is the responsibility of the
nursery, care home, etc to undertake this in consultation with the girl/company.

Have you recently joined the PVG Scheme for work? If so, you can apply for a PVG Scheme
update for your Church/GB volunteering. To do this you should speak with your Church
Safeguarding Coordinator or Child Protection Officer. Again, if you could advise GB HQ once you
have successfully updated your PVG record we can then update our records.
The most important thing to remember is that while there is a transition period from the old system to
the new PVG Scheme the one thing that has not changed is the overall policy and principles relating
to Child Protection. The good practice guidelines issued to every company in 2005 and to every
leader who has been appointed since that time have not changed and should be adhered to at all
times. Protecting the girls and young women in our care is vital but GBS also has a duty of care to
leaders and the good practice and policies are there to protect each of you so we would ask for your
cooperation in ensuring that these are followed at all times.
As always, if you have any questions about PVG or Child Protection please do not hesitate to contact
me at GB HQ (0141 332 1765) or via e-mail (caroline.goodfellow@girls-brigade-scotland.org.uk)
Caroline Goodfellow
National Director
17 May 2012
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980
Appendix V
Equalities Policy - attached as a separate electronic file for formatting
purposes.
The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland is a registered charity: SCO10980