Every one of our people are non-renumerated volunteers. That means no one gets paid or receives a financial reward. Everyone gives up their time for the benefit of the Young People in Scouting.
The vast majority are current scout parents of current or past young people. We also have some grandparents and volunteers who do not have children but are keen to benefit their community, often because they too received the benefit of Scouting when they were young. Some volunteers were Scouts themselves and have come back as they enjoyed it and want to give back.
We have volunteers from all walks of life and all come with different skill sets to offer. We have leaders with skills in the running of the sections, some have outdoor skills, some specialise in activities, some administration, some finance, some practical support, some may even just come to make the tea on camp – but it’s well-known Scouts can’t function without tea! Everyone is a cog in the machine. If you want to get involved, then we can find a role! We offer online and face to face training, as well as specialised courses for people to gain permits for adventurous activities.
Examples of roles can be found in the Volunteer Opportunities section or get in touch at join@henfieldscouts.co.uk
Our Group Scout Leader Mark Williams
Mark is our enthusiastic Group Scout Leader (GSL) here at 1st Henfield Scouts. Mark began his scouting journey when he was 7 and joined the Cub Pack at 5th Horley Scout Group. He has been volunteering with Scouting for over 12 years now, starting as a parent helper and progressing through various roles. His passion lies in creating a fun and inclusive environment where young people can learn valuable life skills, build confidence and make lifelong friendships. Under Mark’s leadership, 1st Henfield Scouts continues to thrive and provide a fantastic Scouting experience for all.
Mark aged 7
Mark leading our Group at Henfield’s 2023 Remembrance Parade.
Our Deputy Group Scout Leader Kalie Morrison
Kalie’s dedication to Scouting began in 2022 when she joined 1st Henfield as a Parent Helper. Within weeks, her passion was evident, and she took on the role of Beaver Leader, a position she holds with enthusiasm to this day. Her commitment extends further as she also serves as our Deputy Group Scout Leader. Kalie’s dedication and can-do attitude are invaluable. She, along with Mark, provide fantastic leadership for our volunteers and young people. They ensure everyone feels supported and empowered to thrive in the Scouting environment.
Our Treasurer Dawn Butcher
Dawn’s journey began many years ago as a Brownie, Guide, and young leader with the Cubs in charming Dorking. This early love for community and adventure blossomed into an incredible career in the travel industry, where she worked across airlines, cargo companies, and a luxury long-haul tour operator. Along the way, she developed a versatile skill set in accounts, sales, customer service, event planning, IT, business transformation projects, recruitment, and training—all within a customer-centric world that fuelled her passion for growth.
Travel not only broadened her horizons professionally but personally too—taking her on thrilling adventures like hot air ballooning, canyoning, parascending, exploring by Segways, scuba diving, riding trolley trams, flying on Concorde, and even experiencing Formula One race days. These life experiences have shaped who she is and deepen her appreciation for how Scouting can empower others in a similar way.
Since moving to Henfield in 2022, she’s thrown herself into community life. She volunteers with the Henfield Computer Club and Community Partnership, serves as treasurer for The Self Help Group and Guides, and naturally, joined the 1st Henfield Scouts. She’s loving being able to give back to a community that has welcomed her with open arms.
Dawn cruising in Norway.
Emma & Nick Oliver-Taylor with their three children.
Emma & Nick Oliver-Taylor
Emma and Nick are a husband-and-wife team who dedicate time to supporting our Scout Group. Emma is our trustee board secretary and Nick brings his expertise as a qualified First Aid Trainer. He plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our young people by delivering essential first aid training to our volunteers and young leaders.
Richard Tai-Chidlow – Scout Leader 2007 Scout Troop
Rich joined 1st Henfield Scout Group after moving to the area with his family. With three children actively involved in the group, and as a former Scout himself, Rich leads our Wednesday 2007 Scout Troop, which has seen great success under his guidance. The troop is flourishing, with growing numbers and achievements in recent hiking competitions and Scout camps.
Rich receiving his Chief Scouts Award
John Morley
Jon Morley – Explorers Scout Leader and Deputy Group Scout Leader
Nearly a decade ago, when the Henfield Explorer section needed leadership, John stepped up without hesitation. With his own children already involved in the group, he took the initiative to volunteer and has been leading the Spitfire Explorers ever since.
John’s dedication extends beyond the Explorer section. He previously served as a Scout Leader and currently holds the important positions of Deputy Group Scout Leader and Trustee with 1st Henfield Scout Group. His leadership and experience are invaluable assets to our group.
Gavin Wright – Active Support Unit (Quartermaster)
When Gavin’s previous Scout group, 1st Partridge Green, sadly closed due to a lack of volunteers, he ensured his Cubs could continue their Scouting journey by bringing his Cub pack to 1st Henfield. This allowed our group to establish a thriving second Cub pack.
After many years as a valued leader and with his children now grown, Gavin decided to step down from this role. However, he continues to be a vital part of our Group as Quartermaster, keeping our group running smoothly by managing essential equipment and supplies. Gavin is also part of our Scout Activity Support Team, supporting at camps and certain Adventurous activities.
Gavin Wright
Sally Birch
Sally Birch – Active Support Unit
Sally joined the Group in 2012 when her nephew joined Cubs. She became an Assistant Cub Scout Leader, and was instrumental in running the pack. Seeing both her nephews go through cubs she remained as a leader, helping the pack survive Covid before stepping down in 2022. However she still remains part of our support team and we can call on her experience and expertise to help on camps and other activities. A key part of the Group is to retain knowledge and the sense of community
Ed Cassidy – Cub Scout Leader – Adur Cub Pack
Ed’s dedication is a welcome boost for our Cub section! When a rise in Cub numbers after Covid created the need for a second pack, Ed stepped up to volunteer. With a child involved in both Cubs and Beavers, he understands the value of Scouting firsthand.
Ed now leads our new Cub pack based at St. Peter’s Primary in Henfield. His enthusiasm and commitment are sure to inspire the next generation of Scouting adventurers!
Ed Cassidy
Katharine Pilch
Katharine Pilch – Membership Secretary, 2SAS
Katharine’s Scouting journey began when her youngest child reached Squirrel age. She played a key role in establishing our brand-new Squirrels Drey, ensuring her child could join the fun! Her dedication didn’t stop there – Katharine became a valued assistant in the Squirrels Drey in 2023.
As her youngest transitioned to Beavers, Katharine’s commitment continued. She’s now actively involved in supporting the Beaver section as well.
Beyond her section involvement, Katharine’s contributions extend to the entire group. She currently serves as our Membership Secretary, a vital role. Her efforts have been instrumental in streamlining and improving our membership processes.
