Many of you will already know Pax Hall. It was built over 70 years ago with the help of this very community, and it has been home to generations of Scouts ever since. But the building is showing its age, and our group is growing. We need more space, better facilities, and a building that can support Scouting in the Worthies for the next 70 years, and then some.

Why we need a new building

We currently have 180 young people aged 4 to 18, from Squirrels right through to Explorers, with a significant waiting list of children who want to join. Pax Hall simply cannot accommodate the demand, and that drives everything we are doing.

Why it matters

Scouting gives young people so much more than badges and campfires. It builds confidence, resilience, teamwork and a sense of adventure. It connects children with their community, teaches them to take responsibility, and gives them skills and friendships that last a lifetime. For many of our young people, their section night is the highlight of their week, and we want to give them a space worthy of that.

What we're planning

We have begun planning our new space. Our vision is a modern, accessible building designed around Scouting, including:

• Two halls that can open into one large space for group events

• Breakout rooms and sensory spaces

• A kitchen for cooking & baking, camp preparation and community events

• Accessible toilets and changing facilities, so everyone can take part

• Storage for camping kit and equipment

Where we are now

We are actively fundraising for the considerable costs involved.

One of the things that makes Scouting special is the emphasis on self-reliance and initiative, and our young people have taken that to heart. We’re incredibly proud of how much our young people have fundraised already but need considerably more. Our young people have hiked, packed bags, washed cars and so much more. Our recent group hike raised an incredible £5,500, we couldn’t be prouder of them.

How you can help

Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer.

• Donate: make a one-off or regular donation through our Zeffy page. Zeffy is free for charities, so 100% of your donation goes to the building fund.

• Shop online: sign up to easyfundraising and raise free donations every time you shop with thousands of retailers, at no extra cost to you.

• Join a fundraising challenge: keep an eye on our news page for upcoming events and challenges, and get the whole family involved.

• Business support: if your business could help through sponsorship, materials or professional skills, we'd love to hear from you! Please email chair@3rdwinscouts.org.uk

• Know a funder? If you know of a grant, trust or organisation that might support us, please get in touch.

Thank you

To everyone who has already donated, shopped, baked, sponsored or shared: thank you. We'll post regular updates here as the project moves forward.