Word from Director for Scotland, John Sharp…

Monday 18th December 2017

Approaching the end of a year, it’s hard not to have at least a bit of a glance over your shoulder and consider what has happened over the past twelve months.

For the Brigade, I think it’s always important to acknowledge and remember what has been achieved, and indeed celebrate the impact of our work with young people across Scotland, and beyond.

Over the course of 2017 The Boys’ Brigade has worked with thousands of children and young people – supporting them to grow and to reach their full potential.

This year we have celebrated an incredible milestone – 100 years of working with the Juniors’ age group. In September I was delighted to be in the Chamber of the Scottish Parliament to hear a members’ motion brought forward by Alexander Stewart MSP to support our Juniors 100 celebrations. Members from across the political spectrum spoke about the role and the relevancy of the Brigade today, with many of them also explaining how the BB has played a formative part in their own lives. It was terrific to see that a similar motion was also put forward by Patrick Grady MP at Westminster.

I have heard similar stories of the impact and of the role of the Brigade from leaders around the country, who give up their time week after week to make the BB happen. It’s a story which you can tell fills them with pride, energy and a great sense of fulfilment.

The Brigade has been doing amazing work and will continue to do amazing work. Heading into the new year I think we have a wonderful opportunity to shout even louder about what we are doing.

2018 has been designated as the Year of Young People, and we will play our part in celebrating the role of young people in Scotland today. Of course for the Brigade, every year is a year of young people.

I hope that you will enjoy some of the highlights of 2017 that have been picked out here in a short video.

Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful new year.

John

You can follow John on Twitter using @JohnBBscotland