Generation CashBack has reopened and is taking applications from units wanting to join! CashBack is a project open to Guide and Ranger units in areas of deprivation and supports units to do new things and increase their capacity.

In 2024, funding from CashBack meant that leaders from 3 units completed the Going Away With (GAW) scheme. Development officer Anna caught up with leaders from 2 of the units (1^st Strichen Guides and 17^th Greenock Guides) to find out more about their weekends away.

1^st Strichen Guide unit went away in National Space Week so had a space-themed trip complete with crafts, games, a movie, and the girls got dramatic creating plays. The unit leader said: “I gained my GAW qualification at the weekend which means it will be so much easier for our unit to go away on residentials in the future.  Without the support of CashBack, not all girls would have been able to attend the event as they might not have been able to afford to come away. The funding also meant we could give the girls some extra treats while away. The funding definitely pushed me on to arrange the residential event and the support received to apply for funding was excellent.”

17^th Greenock Guide unit had an around the world theme with activities covering Scotland, North America, South Africa and Egypt. They also enjoyed a themed menu featuring dishes from Italy, the USA, Britain, and Paris.

The unit leader said: “Having the license brings more opportunities for our unit by enabling us to offer more trips and experiences. With multiple leaders holding the license, the responsibility can be shared, reducing the pressure on any one person. This also means we can collaborate and take turns leading trips, ensuring everyone contributes equally and helping us plan more frequent residentials.

“It gave me insight into the extensive planning and preparation involved in organising a residential. I gained valuable experience in managing the behind-the-scenes work, such as coordinating activities, ensuring safety and planning meals. It’s much more complex than just showing up on the day to support, and I now have a deeper appreciation for all the effort that goes into making these events successful.

“The funding allowed us to lower the cost of the trip for Guide parents, ensuring every girl had the opportunity to attend. Keeping costs minimal generated more interest and excitement among the girls. The funding also made it possible to include unique activities like archery and tomahawk throwing, which might not have been affordable otherwise. Additionally, it ensured we could provide nutritious tasty meals and snacks, which are essential for keeping everyone energized and happy throughout the weekend.

“Overall, the weekend was a fantastic experience for both the Guides and leaders. It allowed us to explore a creative theme, bond as a group and offer new, engaging activities. The support from CashBack funding truly made a difference in what we could achieve and helped us create lasting memories for our Guides.”

If you would like more information about your unit joining CashBack please email anna@girlguiding-scot.org.uk.