Raising the Roof: Scout Hut Ceiling Replacement Project, 1st Winchcombe Scouts, Winchcombe, Cheltenham

This is a project to replace the ceiling at the 1st Winchcombe Scout Hut.

Since 1908, 1st Winchcombe Scouts has been a cornerstone of the community, helping young people build confidence, friendships, and practical skills. The Scout hut is central to weekly meetings, activities, and local events, but its ceiling urgently needs replacing. As an independent charity, the group funds all maintenance itself. A new ceiling will ensure the building remains safe, warm and energy efficient for the Scouts and the wider community.

Environmental considerations: These have been central to the ceiling replacement project. The existing ceiling has virtually no insulation, resulting in significant heat loss and high heating bills during winter. The new design will include steel profiled sheets, made from natural materials that are extremely durable and 100% recyclable. The added insulation will provide a major improvement in energy efficiency, reducing both costs and environmental impact. Modern LED lighting will further cut electricity use and maintenance needs. Together these upgrades will create a warmer, more sustainable, and energy efficient space for the Scouts and wider community.

Hard to reach considerations: The Group partners with the local charity Heartsight CIC, who use the hut to support children facing educational and emotional challenges. The facility provides an accessible, safe space for underrepresented groups such as those with special educational needs or disengaged from mainstream schooling. Through this partnership, the groups ensures that those who might not otherwise access community facilities are invited in and supported.