The FNEL scouts and guides are planning to visit Nepal in 2016; with the recent news from that region, some might say it is not the right moment to announce a scout expedition to Nepal, but the idea is to get involved on the ground and help with the clear-up efforts, so there will certainly be a lot to do.

It is not only the environment of the fascinating nature and wonderful contact with people there that makes such a Camp so interesting, but also the chance to do something really worthwhile. It is clear that this year with such a terrible catastrophe all offers of help will be welcome but, of course, members will also have the opportunity to learn more about the local culture and perhaps do a little trekking when the work is done.

All those who are interested in joining the expedition as a participant or who are motivated to work together with the staffing team, which already met on 16 June 2015, are welcome to participate. The trip is being planned to take place from 15 July to 5 August 2016, travelling to Katmandu and close to Pokara at Baglung. The organisers anticipate that there will be around 35 participants and 10 staff members. The cost will depend mostly on the transport alternatives but it is likely to be in the region of €2,000 per person, including a participant week-end in January 2016 to build and cement relationships before the trip.

The organisers propose to create groups of participants to raise funds in addition to the offer of FNEL to support the cost of the selected development projects. There may also be some sponsorship provided for the medical and other equipment needed, some of which will be bought locally in Nepal.

The contact point for participants through to 15 October 2015 is email: claude@fnel.lu. Other questions can be sent to email: nepal2016@fnel.lu and further details will follow in due course. The team will evaluate the different possibilities for the development projects with Paul Geditz, who is based in Nepal, and FNEL in preparation for the next information and subscription meeting.
 
Photo (below) by Clive Munn: Leadership Team FNEL Nepal 2016