Paisley & District Scouts

17/06/2026

🌟 HUGE CONGRATULATIONS 🌟

Paisley & District Scouts are bursting with pride today! 🎉

Craig Ferguson, our incredible local lad, has just completed The Tartan Trek — an astonishing 3,200+ mile walk across the United States, from Los Angeles all the way to Boston, in support of SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health). Over 100 days. More than 120 marathons. All to help raise money for mental health support back home in Scotland. What an achievement. 👏

But this story isn’t just about one incredible walker. It’s about friendship, loyalty, and showing up for the people you care about.

Matthew Allan, one of our brilliant Scouters here at Paisley & District, made the decision to quit his job so he could be there for his friend every step of the way — supporting Craig through the toughest miles, the hardest days, and everything in between. That’s not a small thing. That’s putting your own life on hold for someone else’s dream, and we think that deserves just as much recognition as the walk itself.

Craig and Matthew — we are so unbelievably proud of you both. This is exactly the kind of spirit we try to instil in our young people every single week: courage, commitment, and looking out for one another no matter what.

The walk may be done, but the fundraising isn’t — every pound still helps SAMH continue their vital work across Scotland. You can donate here:
https://www.thetartantrek.co.uk/

Well done, both of you.

26/03/2026

We are partnering with Ocean Youth Trust Scotland to offer two incredible sailing experiences that will challenge, inspire, and develop skills for life.

We are looking to offer a 10-day expedition, perfect for those working towards their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award or King’s Scout Award (2nd-11th April 2027), and a shorter 5-day voyage adventure for those looking to experience life at sea, develop new skills, and have an unforgettable time (12-16th April 2027).

These voyages provide a unique opportunity to step outside comfort zones, make new friends, and gain recognised experience that supports Scouting awards. Spaces will be limited, and demand is expected to be high.

The deadline to sign up is 22nd of April 2026 at 7pm.

For more information and registration visit our website - https://westregion.org.uk/oyt-sailing-week/

19/03/2026

Congrats on the new position Blair Ross!!

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Blair Ross as Lead Volunteer for West Region Scouts.

Blair brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been involved in Scouting from an early age - first as a young member of Renfrew Town Sea Scouts and continuing through to volunteering at a local, regional and national level. Most recently, Blair has served as Group Lead Volunteer at Renfrew Town Sea Scouts and Programme Lead at West Region Scouts.

Blair shared:

“I’m excited to be stepping into the role of Regional Lead Volunteer for West Region. Scouting is built on the dedication of our volunteers and the enthusiasm of our young people, and I’m looking forward to supporting both as we continue to grow and develop across the region.

My focus will be on listening, encouraging, and championing the amazing work that happens every week in our groups, while making sure our volunteers feel valued and supported to deliver great opportunities for our young people.

Together, we can keep building a strong, positive future for Scouting in the West.”

We would also like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere thanks to James Cu***ng for his service as Regional Lead Volunteer, and to Patrick West, who has been holding the fort over the past few months. Their commitment and leadership have been greatly appreciated and have helped ensure continuity and support across the region.

22/02/2026

Happy Founder’s Day
Today, we join Scouts around the world in celebrating a movement built on friendship, peace and unity.
To every volunteer across Paisley & District — whether you’re leading a section, keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes, or supporting your Group or District team — thank you. Your dedication, enthusiasm and time make a real difference to young people every single day.
Because of you, young people across Paisley and the surrounding communities are gaining skills for life, growing in confidence and creating friendships that will last a lifetime.
We truly appreciate everything you do. 💜

07/02/2026

Scottish Youth Forum, 6–8 March

Shape the Future of Scouting in Scotland!

The Scottish Youth Team is bringing together Scouts, Explorers, and Network members from across the country for a residential weekend at Lochgoilhead and you could be part of it!

Over the weekend, participants will help shape Scout Scotland’s Youth Manifesto by sharing ideas, discussing what matters to young people in Scouting, and influencing future direction at a national level.

This is a brilliant opportunity to develop your voice, meet other young people from across Scotland, and make a real impact.

🔍 Who We’re Looking For
4 Scouts
4 Explorers
4 Networkers

🔑Key Information
Free to attend
Accommodation included
Catering provided
Transport will be arranged for all West Region participants ahead of the event

📩 Interested?
If you’d like to be part of West Region’s delegation, please complete the form below:

👉https://forms.office.com/e/F4xReUHGtF

01/02/2026

After more than 12 years of outstanding service as Warden at Lapwing Lodge, Ross is finally hanging up his boots — and what a legacy he leaves behind!

From early mornings to late‑night campfires, from keeping the site running smoothly to supporting countless adventures, Ross has been a constant source of dedication, reliability, and good humour. Lapwing Lodge simply wouldn’t be the same without the hard work he’s poured into it over the years.

On behalf of everyone at Paisley & District Scouts, thank you, Ross, for everything you’ve done for our young people, leaders, and the wider Scouting community. You’ve made a lasting difference, and we’re incredibly grateful.

Enjoy every moment of your well‑earned retirement — you deserve it!

This week has marked the end of an era. After more than 12 years of dedicated service at Lapwing, Ross Dunbar has retired as our warden.

Ross came to Lapwing at a point when the centre wasn't quite at its best and needed someone to lead it into better times. Ross, and his family got straight to work, building a team of friends, old and new to turn Lapwings fortunes around.

The centre that you all know and love today, is in no small part down to the hard work and dedication of Ross and the teams that he built and lead. Of course, Ross wouldn't have managed this without the love, support (and patience) of his family, especially his wife Liz.

We wish Ross and Liz the very best in whatever comes next for them, as we welcome Ben who now takes over the mantle as centre manager.

02/12/2025

🌱 Scouts Making a Difference in Paisley! 🌱

On Saturday, Scouts from Paisley & District planted over 200 trees and scrub plants on the beautiful Gleniffer Braes to help create habitats for the Lesser Whitethroat bird – all part of our Better World Project!

This is the second day our Scouts have been hard at work in Gleniffer Braes Country Park, partnering with Renfrewshire Council to improve this amazing local resource. Alongside tree planting, they’ve:
✅ Cleared and maintained paths
✅ Improved drainage ditches
✅ Built wildlife habitats
✅ Created a brand-new path for visitors!

This project, led by Iain McNair and Jim Duffy, grew from the enthusiasm Scouts showed during tree planting at PAGGS Camp earlier this year. Since then, they’ve planted over 1,000 trees and scrub plants across Lapwing Lodge, Sergeant Law Road, Barshaw Park, and now Gleniffer Braes!

Jim Duffy summed it up perfectly:
"This project gives back to the community and helps preserve a fantastic natural asset that has brought joy to generations. Our Scouts have embraced this with incredible enthusiasm!"

And as Iain McNair said:
"We teach being green in schools, but rarely do young people get the chance to leave a real legacy. This year, our Scouts have shown pride, dedication, and passion – making a genuine difference to our parks and local environment."

💚 Want your child to be part of something amazing and gain skills for life? Get in touch today and join the adventure!