The Girls' Brigade Scotland is set to be wound up as an independent charity after more than 125 years, with leaders citing dwindling membership 'in the digital age' as a key factor. The organisation will now become part of Girls' Brigade Great Britain, and bosses have stated it will 'operate as usual while planning and preparing for this exciting opportunity'.
Historical Background
On April 19, 1921, one week before she became The Duchess of York, the late Queen Mother became patron of the Girls' Brigade Scotland. The charity north of the Border has been an autonomous member of a worldwide organisation for girls and young women, working 'within a framework of Christian principles'.
Reasons for Closure
In a statement, the charity explained that the decision to close in Scotland came after careful consideration of 'membership figures' and 'what they mean for our future'. The organisation will be formally wound up on May 31 next year, resulting in staff redundancies. The executive team believes dissolving the Brigade was the 'only responsible decision' without 'significant membership growth'.
Laura Quilter, president of Girls' Brigade Scotland, acknowledged the decision would be 'deeply painful' for many. Girls' Brigade England & Wales and Girls' Brigade Scotland jointly announced that members will be 'welcomed into the newly formed Girls' Brigade Great Britain'.
Leadership Comments
Caroline Goodfellow, chief executive of the organisation in Scotland, said: 'Our priority is the fantastic Girls' Brigade members who need a thriving community at national level to support their local groups. We have over 4,000 Girls' Brigade members in Scotland, who will be welcomed to join the new organisation. This is the end of an era in Scotland, and there will be local celebrations and thanksgiving for the organisation as Girls' Brigade Scotland comes to an end as a separate charity.'
Judith Davey-Cole, chief executive of Girls' Brigade England & Wales, added: 'Membership numbers have shifted in the digital age, and our priority is making sure we have a national organisation that is sustainable and ready for the future.'
