Owen Morgan, a lifelong member of youth organisation Woodcraft Folk, has written Singing for a New World — the official song for Camp 100, part of the movement’s centenary celebrations. The track will be released on all major platforms on 27th June.

Owen first joined Woodcraft Folk as a child in the Newham district, where he was inspired to learn the guitar and write songs. Now 41, today he is a leader in the Lewisham and Greenwich district and works an Anglican priest. In his spare time he writes songs of protest and songs that tell stories in the folk tradition.  

Singing for a New World celebrates the values of cooperation, peace and international friendship that define the Woodcraft Folk. The recorded version features the voices of young people aged 6 to 18 from Lewisham and Greenwich, capturing the intergenerational spirit of the movement.

Woodcraft Folk youth groups around the country have already been learning the song at group nights in preparation for Camp 100, which will bring together Woodcraft Folk members from across the UK and around the world for a 10 day camp this summer. The song will be performed as part of the opening ceremony on the first full day of camp and is set to appear in the next edition of the organisation’s official songbook.

“The idea was to write a song that was easy to learn and sing whatever your age, and one that created a sense of hope and togetherness,” says Owen. “I wanted something that people could sing with full hearts around campfires for years to come.”

As of Friday 27th June, the song can be download from all major platforms including Spotify and iTunes.

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‘What was it like on the boat?’

‘I didn’t come over in the boat, not everyone did’

HMT Empire Windrush has acted as a symbol for a generation and at times detracted from the sad, ongoing stories of racism below the waves.  Mrs. McGhie-Belgrave MBE met members of Woodcraft Folk to share her lived experience of ‘The Windrush Generation’

Before race riots flared around her in the 1980s, she was already working tirelessly to support people in Handsworth.  ‘Shades of Black’, the organisation she founded, brought reconciliation and helped rebuild communities after the Handsworth riots.

When she arrived in the UK in 1957 she worked in the mental health sector; over the years she’s worked across social and probation services, running community projects. From teaching, sewing to community banking, all build bridges and communities and overcoming loneliness.

“If you can help, simply help a person in a very small way, you will be surprised how they take it and remember it for the rest of their lives.”

Woodcraft Folk Challenging Racism

Her words echoed Woodcraft values as we sat in a circle, every person equal, every voice heard, ‘spanning the world with Friendship’.  More than that, she saw a problem and acted, taking peaceful and direct action.  Woodcraft also has a history tackling issues of racism, be it challenging facism in the 1930s, ‘Kindertransport’ during World War 2, or championing ‘multi-culturalism’, highlighting overt and covert racism in education and throughout the 1960s, 70s, 80s and right into the 21st Century, all explored with our members as part of 100 Objects spanning 100 Years

Mrs. McGhie-Belgrave’s early life

Born in the Parish of St James Maldon District in Jamaica in 1934, Mrs. McGhie-Belgrave recalls her upbringing:

“We had our own plot, that’s what we had to give us cash to buy the things we wanted, so we had to do our own cultivation. We had the land. We were quite lucky because grandma was a white woman, she was married to an African. So, I lived racism in Jamaica before I came here.”

Leah Finlayson (Mrs. McGhie’s grandmother) was the daughter of white plantation owner, working as a local midwife after her parents disowned her for marrying a black man. Mrs McGhie-Belgrave has been dealing with racism and working with people to challenge it throughout her life.

‘If you do not have these conversations, it’s not going away. It’s just bubbling underneath. In 1957 I went shopping and tried to purchase a tin of beans. The shopkeeper replied, “So you can speak English, can you?” and placed my change on the counter rather than in the palm of my hands. I left it where it was and returned three days later to receive my change in the palm of my hands. In that moment, without any argument, lives were changed. Especially for Black people, racism then was rife.’

Mrs. McGhie-Belgrave, now aged 90, describes her life as a lucky one, mainly because of the opportunities she has had for learning and serving. A role model for all, her visit to our Woodcraft Folk group was inspiring and will spark action, raise awareness and challenge racism long after Windrush day.

‘If you are able to help, do.’

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Woodcraft Folk is delighted to announce, in its centenary year, the appointment of Lloyd Russell-Moyle as its new Chief Executive Officer and General Secretary. Lloyd’s connection to Woodcraft Folk spans a lifetime, first joining as a child participant, becoming a group leader and later a Trustee serving as Chair of the organisation from 2009  to 2012. His deep roots within the movement uniquely position him to lead Woodcraft Folk into its next century . Lloyd will be joining Woodcraft Folk at Camp 100 and formally taking on his new role at the AGM on August 2nd 2025.

Lloyd brings to the role extensive experience from across the youth and public sectors. His engagement with and support for the British Youth Council and National Youth Agency demonstrated his long-standing commitment to empowering young people, while his tenure as a Member of Parliament, where he authored three national reports into youth work, provided him with invaluable insights into national policy and advocacy. His academic background in Peace Studies education will help him shape educational approaches for young people in an increasingly unstable world. Throughout his career, Lloyd has championed youth voice, inclusion social justice and peace.

Looking ahead, Lloyd will work with Trustees, volunteers and staff to support young people to take action on the issues that matter most to them, growing the movement to reach even more children and young people, and tackling barriers to inclusion so that everyone can participate in Woodcraft Folk’s life-changing activities.

“I am honoured to return to Woodcraft Folk in this role,” said Lloyd Russell-Moyle. “This organisation played a formative role in my life, and I’m passionate about ensuring that as many young people as possible have access to the same opportunities. Our educational method is not just values led but it practically builds strong relationships through regular group nights and transformative experiences through immersive residentials equipping young people with the skills and confidence to change the world around them. Working with our group leaders, our members and our staff I look forward to helping grow our groups and opportunities for children and young people of all backgrounds and abilities”.

Joe Bailey, Woodcraft Folk’s Chair of General Council (the Board of Trustees) added: “We are delighted to welcome Lloyd back to Woodcraft Folk. His lifelong dedication to the organisation, combined with his extensive leadership experience, make him the ideal person to guide us forward at this exciting time.”

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Woodcraft Folk is delighted to announce the launch of Span the World with Friendship, published by UCL Press,  a book celebrating a century of international solidarity, peace education and youth empowerment.

At a special launch event, Professor Annebella Pollen, visual historian and chapter author, shared a rich insight into the movement’s 100-year history. Annebella spoke of Leslie Paul’s many influences and the evolution of Woodcraft Folk under his leadership. The evening also heard from young member Delilah Wallbank, who reflected on her personal experiences as a DF (District Fellow) sharing a personal experience of a DF camp circle.

The event concluded with a presentation from Woodcraft Folk’s CEO Debs McCahon who called upon those present to take action to support the ambition of Woodcraft Folk’s founders. Encouraging those present, whether volunteers, supporters or partners to act to support the movement to engage, empower and equip more children and young people with the skills, confidence and knowledge to fight social injustice and build a fairer world. Using Leslie Paul’s words… Woodcraft Folk needs to continue to train young people for peace, not for competition, but for co-operation, not for obedience, but for critical thought, fairness and collective action.

Span the World with Friendship is now available through UCL Press at Span the World with Friendship | UCL Press

For more information, to get involved, or to support Woodcraft Folk’s work, please visit: www.woodcraft.org.uk

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Debs went on to share opportunities to engage and support Woodcraft Folk in its centenary year, including:

• Camp 100, which is expecting over 2,100 campers at Kelmarsh Hall, 27th July-6th August. To ensure all young people have an opportunity to attend we are encouraging those who can to donate to the Woodcraft Folk Camp Fundraiser 
• Sharing photos, drawings and memorabilia with Marcus Belben, Woodcraft Folk’s 100 Objects Project Officer. Items donated will be added to Woodcraft Folk’s archive and will contribute to the touring centenary exhibition which launches at the Coop Group in Manchester during October
• Reading Woodcraft Folk’s history in Span the World with Friendship | UCL Press
• Reviewing case studies and articles in the Woodcraft Folk’s centenary special edition of the Journal of Cooperative Studies, to be published w/c 23rd June
• Donating to Woodcraft Folk’s Celebrating 100 years National Campaign – JustGiving

A recording can be found here.

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We use them in our ‘100 Objects for 100 years‘ workshops to bring the rich history of the Woodcraft movement. Young people may never have experienced a large international camp like Camp 100 . There’s something unique about being able to see and handle carefully hand-crafted banners used at camps decades ago, carefully saved and stored as momentos. They bring alive the joy and purpose of woodcraft in conversations exploring the values and principles that have guided us for generations.

Inspired by the designs and emblems on the banners, then we get creative! We design postcards and craft our own badges, incorporating logos, badges, and emblems from Woodcraft’s past as well as our own understanding of what it means to be Woodcraft.

A Flag for Camp 100: A Legacy Continues

Birmingham Pioneers are taking on an exciting project: repairing and adding to an old cooperative Woodcraft rainbow flag that was generously donated. This flag could become the official flag for the Birmingham District Village at Camp 100! It’s a wonderful way to blend history with the present, ensuring that a piece of our past will fly proudly at this landmark international camp.

If you want to find out more about ‘100 Objects for 100 years‘ or discuss ways we can support your Centenary celebrations, get in touch – marcus.belben@woodcraft.org.uk. Send us your postcards:

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The panel highlighted the scale of the mental health crisis among young people, noting that 20% have missed school due to poor mental health, and that 1 in 5 individuals aged 8 to 25 have a probable mental disorder. The main theme of the discussion was the sharp rise in mental health issues linked directly or indirectly to both social media and the COVID-19 pandemic. Before the pandemic, 1 in 9 young people had a diagnosed mental disorder—a figure that has since climbed to 1 in 5. This increase was attributed to the isolation that young people faced, being cut off from family, friends, and crucial support networks like schools and clubs. According to The Guardian, GP referrals for mental health support tripled between 2016 and 2024. The panel also pointed to a rise in child poverty during this period, which has further contributed to the growing prevalence of mental health disorders among both children and teenagers. In addition to this, a sharp decline in charitable funding has forced many youth groups and support centres—often lifelines for young people seeking help—to shut down.

Several young people also put forward their concerns regarding the mental health crisis, highlighting the importance of equality during treatment. This included actively campaigning against prejudice, violence and discrimination towards members of the LGBTQ+ community and people of colour within CAMHS and other NHS services. Questions were raised by St John’s Ambulance representatives, asking what the UK government is doing specifically to support young transgender people struggling with their mental health both through policy making and advocacy, as research shows 1 in 6 trans people have a long-term mental health condition compared to 1 in 10 cisgendered individuals. Other significant issues were addressed by the young attendees such as the lack of effective teacher training provided by the government to aid students with poor mental health, as well as the need for more local youth groups so young people can seek help through their community, instead of in a clinical setting.

The panel then responded to the questions and concerns raised by the young people in attendance. They noted that, at present, the government allocates just 1.04% of its total spending to mental health strategies and programmes, however they aim to meet 70% of the diagnosable need by the end of the current parliamentary term. The discussion then turned to the government’s ten-year National Youth Strategy, which focuses on three key priorities. Firstly, there is a strong focus on early intervention to reduce the need for treatment later on. Secondly, the strategy emphasises the need for community-based services—such as drop-in hubs and GP social prescriptions—instead of hospital-based care. These alternatives are viewed as less clinical and more welcoming for young people. Social prescriptions may include referrals to youth groups, sports activities, or local therapists rather than drug-based treatments. Finally, the plan includes adapting to a more digital response, which is an effective way to both reach young people and respond to the digital factors that can contribute to mental health challenges.

 The panel also raised the possibility of introducing statutory protections for youth services, alongside sufficiency benchmarks to help prevent funding cuts—cuts which are currently affecting young people. In closing, the MPs in attendance stated that they would consider writing to ministers about the issues raised and would continue to lobby in support of youth rights.

The issues raised during the APPG are particularly relevant to the work done at Woodcraft Folk, as the young attendees highlighted the importance of local communities where people can find support through socialising and education. Woodcraft’s groups and camps aim to provide young people with an outlet for creativity, exploration and adventure, leading to improved mental health, which should be a priority for the government when devising both short and long-term expenditure plans.

To access Woodcraft Folk’s youth services and to find your nearest local group head here.

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We’re working hard with young producers to transform these incredible stories and archives into the most amazing exhibition, set to launch later this year. Plus, we’ll be running engaging activities and a special display at the Camp 100 Trailblazers tent!

Your Chance to Get Involved in 100 Objects project

This is a call out to everyone who has been involved so far – and anyone who wants to help make it even better. We’re inviting you to join us at Cudham Environmental Centre from 3pm on Friday, July 5th, to 3pm on Saturday, July 6th. Contact me, Marcus.Belben@woodcraft.org.uk as soon as you can to visit as an individual or as a Venturer/DF group. Free Food, free lodging, free fun!

What to Expect at Cudham

Think campfire, the usual woodcraft fun, and the chance to dive into our fabulous archive collection. We’ll be working together to finalise the items for the main exhibition and activities to run at Camp 100. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see the project come to life and contribute directly to reflect 100 years of Woodcraft.

Building on Your Brilliant Ideas

A huge thank you to everyone who joined our ‘Celebrating our Centenary’ 100 Objects Zoom meeting on Friday We’re busily incorporating all the fantastic ideas from that session, as well as those from our April 28th meeting. Your input is invaluable as we develop a truly fantastic exhibition and supporting programme. This includes activities in Districts, showcase exhibitions across the UK, and our unique “Wish you were Woodcraft” International touring postcard and washing line exhibition:

We Need Your Help!

To reflect all Woodcraft means to everyone, we need your help. Please let us know as soon as you can if you’re able to make it to our Cudham event on July 5th-6th. This gathering is for both younger and older Woodcraft members, and your participation will be key to bringing this project to life.

We can’t wait to see you there and continue building something truly special together!

Contact marcus.belben@woodcraft.org.uk

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We want your photos, artwork memories and stories, whether your Woodchip or Kinsfolk, to create a massive postcard collection, Wish you were Woodcraft:

In the last month100 Objects team have been visiting Districts and supporting celebrations in Birmingham, Sarrat, UCL London (Woodcraft Archives) and plan to host activities like shadow puppetry with Reigate and Redhill in a couple of weeks. Are there events you’d like us to support, or maybe you’d like to send us photos/ artwork from your event or of important things that have happened in your District? Let us know and we’ll do are best to support or join you!

100 Objects will, of course, be at Camp 100, in our very own ‘Trailblazers Now and Then’ tent. We’ll have activities and displays throughout the ten days working with other centres and activities.

We’ll be supporting distict activities throughout 2025, and there are opportunities to join us at our larger exhibitions in Birmingham, London, Manchester and Rochdale, or you might want to run your own event or exhibition which we’d really like to be a part of too.

We want to reflect all experiences of Woodcraft – we’re using archives and images, artwork and artefacts to tap into your stories, stories from all our members, now and then, trailblazing into the future!

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In the charity’s 100 years of service, Woodcraft Folk has been a beacon of hope and co-operation for the younger generation providing endless opportunities and support for young people of all ages across the world.  From housing young refugees after the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s, to the creation of 44 local youth groups across the country between 2015-2017, and most recently campaigning for free school meals and running 250 residential youth experiences over 100 days in 2025. There are endless examples throughout Woodcraft Folk’s history that showcase their relentless dedication to the youth sector.

Every week, thousands of volunteers and young people across the UK meet in school halls, community venues and a host of other places to attend Woodcraft Folk local groups. There, the young members learn about big ideas and topical issues such as the environment and world peace through fun activities like craft, games, camping, and debating. The groups also offer an engaging place where young people make friends and develop crucial skills with many staying on to become volunteers gaining valuable experience they can transfer into their careers and daily lives.

Woodcraft Folk also oversees four outdoor residential centres, where young people can get close to nature and build skills such as confidence and teamwork through a range of adventurous activities. Additionally, the charity runs a youth engagement programme where young members can access support on issues  such as coping with grief and children’s rights.  

However, rather than rest on its laurels, the youth organisation is already planning how it can continue being a voice for young people for the next 100 years and they are inviting their members, supporters and the public to join them for the next chapter.  

There has never been a more crucial time for people to invest in Woodcraft Folk. Youth work is chronically underfunded. Woodcraft folk receive no government funding, as a charitable grassroots movement they rely on the generous and continued support of our donors and volunteers. 

This is at a time when young people need support the most. It has been widely reported that there is an increasing decline in children’s mental health. The NHS estimates that 1 in 5 children and young people aged 8 to 25 in England have a probable mental health condition. Lack of accessible green spaces along with increased screen time is impacting children’s wellbeing and is meaning less opportunity and time given for outdoor play, exploration and development.

There is hope. Woodcraft Folk provides life changing opportunities for young people from all backgrounds where they can give time to self care and development. Woodcraft Folk champions young people through nature connection, adventure programmes and organising camps as well as supporting with building young people’s confidence and social skills.

Fundraiser Grace Dobbie says:

“ For a century, Woodcraft Folk has been more than an organization—it’s been a vibrant community where young people discover friendship, courage, and empowerment through outdoor adventures, social justice, and creative expression. Our centenary is more than a milestone – it’s an opportunity to recommit to the vision of education for social change that has driven us for a century. However, we can’t do it alone, we need your help to ensure our legacy continues. A donation to our fundraiser will directly support inclusive activities, educational programs, and opportunities for young people to thrive for years to come.”

Donate today at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/wcf100 and join Woodcraft Folk in shaping the next 100 years for young people. Can’t donate, spread the word about the fundraiser instead!

Funds will allow Woodcraft Folk to reduce barriers and expand their reach so they can support even more young people through their work. 

With your support, Woodcraft Folk can continue building a future where every child has access to enriching experiences and a voice in shaping a better world.

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The theme for 2025 competition was ‘Celebrating our Centenary’. There were quite a few entries and the Membership team at Woodcraft Folk would like to thank all those members who submitted a design. “They were all fantastic and the ‘secret panel’ had a hard time choosing the finalists” – Leanne Powell, Membership & Groups Manager.

To vote for a design in this year’s competition please fill in the form below. The badge with the most votes will get made and sent out to every registered young member of the organisation across the country. There is also the possibility the design could be used for centenary merchandise.

The deadline for voting is 23rd May 2025.

Don’t forget to share this link with your groups so they can also take part. Any questions please email membership@woodcraft.org.uk.

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Woodcraft Folk, the co-operative children and young people’s organisation dedicated to education for social change, has today announced the launch of a nationwide search for its next Chief Executive Officer. As the charity celebrates its 100th year, the incoming CEO will lead the organisation in delivering its new strategic plan, with a focus on increasing and widening participation, and ensuring both financial and environmental sustainability.

This announcement comes as Debs McCahon, who has served Woodcraft Folk and its wider membership for 17 years, and as CEO since 2020, prepares to step down from her role later this year. Debs’ tenure has been marked by unwavering dedication to youth empowerment, giving more children and young people, from increasingly diverse backgrounds, access to youth work, outdoor adventures and residential stays. She has remained deeply motivated by the charity’s ambition to empower and equip young people with the skills, confidence and knowledge they need to bring about the positive change they wish to see in the world.

“We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Debs for her remarkable dedication, tireless advocacy, and the genuine care she has shown for every member of our movement,” said Joe Bailey, Chair of Trustees. “At the heart of Debs’ ethos is a deep commitment to working co-operatively with staff, trustees, volunteers and young people. From launching major development projects to amplifying youth voice across the organisation, Debs has helped shape a stronger and more inclusive Woodcraft Folk.”

Throughout her time with the charity, Debs has been instrumental in developing programmes that reflect Woodcraft Folk’s core values of co-operation, environmental sustainability and peace. Under her guidance, the organisation has expanded its partnership work, deepened its outreach to marginalised young people, and strengthened its ability to demonstrate and celebrate the impact it makes in the lives of children, young people and the wider community.

As Woodcraft Folk looks to the future, the Board of Trustees is now inviting applications for a visionary and collaborative leader to serve as CEO. The successful candidate will champion education for social change, work closely with volunteers and young members, and build upon the charity’s reputation as a unique force for good in youth work and environmental justice.

“This is a pivotal moment for Woodcraft Folk,” Joe continued. “We’re seeking someone who shares our values and brings the strategic vision to grow our membership, break down barriers to participation, and champion a greener, fairer world. Their leadership will be vital in building on our strong foundations and helping to shape the next 100 years of our movement.”

Adverts for the CEO role will go live this week, and the recruitment pack will be available on the Woodcraft Folk website. When live, it will be available at https://woodcraft.org.uk/vacancies. Applications will be open until 9am on 26 May 2025.

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