Girlguiding UK (Merseyside)
Presented by Professor Phil Vickerman
Honorary Pro-Chancellor, it gives me great pleasure to present Girlguiding Merseyside for a corporate award from Liverpool John Moores University in recognition of an association that resonates so closely with our own ethos and aspirations.
From a small handful of girls who gate-crashed the first-ever Scout rally, demanding ‘something for the girls’, Girlguiding has grown into a vast and vibrant network of members across the UK.
First established in 1909 – thanks to the efforts of many intrepid girls who refused to accept that scouting was 'just for boys' young women began gaining badges in sailing, aviation and home electrics. During the two world wars, girl guides showed an incredible commitment to social action and carried confidential messages between government departments, raised funds for the war effort, grew vegetables and worked in hospitals, factories and soup kitchens.
It's been over 100 years since Girlguiding was established, and they continue to push boundaries and achieve great things through their groups for specific ages. Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Rangers play a tremendous role in shaping young women’s lives, inspiring equality, empowerment and confidence in their members.
And influenced by the skills and passions of the girls today, they have created over 800 new badges and activities such recycling, vlogging, women’s rights and entrepreneurship. The peer education programme encourages girls to talk about subjects such as body confidence, healthy relationships and mindfulness.
We are delighted to be joined today by Girlguiding Merseyside’s County Commissioner, Cheryl Gregson, who is here with (Isabella Abbott, Faye Nelson and Jade Wright) representing Brownies, Guides and Rangers.
Girlguiding Merseyside has over 3,200 members and more than 700 volunteers who give girls and young women a space where they can be themselves, have fun, build brilliant friendships, gain valuable life skills and make a positive difference to their lives and their communities.
The charity builds girls’ confidence and raises their aspirations, giving them the chance to discover their full potential and encourage them to be a powerful force for good.
Pro-Chancellor, this is a truly incredible organisation and it gives me great pleasure to present Girlguiding Merseyside for our highest recognition of a Corporate Award in the Fellowship of Liverpool John Moores University.
