County Lead Volunteer - Elaine Gausden

When it comes to the operation of the county, Elaine is top dog. She started off as a Brownie and a Guide before becoming a volunteer in Scouts. Elaine is a Scout section leader and was previously a District Lead Volunteer so she has, not only, a wealth of experience and knowledge but also an endless amount of enthusiasm. When she isn't Scouting, Elaine is a teacher of health and social care in a sixth form college and enjoys walks with her family and dog by the sea!

County Youth Lead - Izzy Rance

County Youth Leads support volunteers in their County (including District Teams, District Youth Leads, and County Programme Team Members) to make sure that the County’s activity is informed by young people’s ideas and feedback. They influence decisions that are made in the County as a member of the County Trustee Board, making sure that young people are at the heart of decisions.

Izzy started her role in September 2025 after being a member of the County Youth Team and also working hard to get Network up and running in Brighton & Hove District!

Programme Team Lead - Fiona Downs

Fiona heads up programme in the county. She works with district teams and the youth teams throughout the county to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to take part in new and exciting activities. Fiona assists with other activities such as adult leadership days, recruitment workshops and the World Scout Jamboree Unit in East Sussex. 

Volunteering Development Lead - Ash Jones

The volunteering development team lead is the person responsible for the development of skills, knowledge and general volunteer experience. Ash works with the training, first aid and the welcome conversation volunteers to help our new volunteers understand their role and keep everyone safe. Ash is self employed as a chartered building surveyor and enjoys spending his free time with his animals and in Wales.

Take a look at our page for all things volunteering development here!