Cannock youngsters are being invited to join the innovative Staffordshire Young Police Cadets, a scheme launched by the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) in March.
The Young Police Cadet scheme for Staffordshire was one of Matthew Ellis’s key election pledges. It aims to strengthen links between the police and young people and promote good citizenship.
“The scheme’s all about encouraging young people to develop new skills and self-confidence in the service of communities. It isn’t about recruiting police officers – it’s about developing young people and making a positive difference,” explained Mr Ellis.
“During my recent ‘Let’s Talk’ events in Cannock, the cadets did a great job engaging with the public and I had some great feedback from families about the scheme.”
Cadets’ uniforms have been sponsored through the Local Strategic Partnership.
Cannock Chase District Councillor Mike Holder, Crime and Partnerships Portfolio Leader, added: “The Local Strategic Partnership are delighted to sponsor the cadet scheme in Cannock. This is a fantastic opportunity for young people in the District to learn how our police operate to track down criminals in the area. They will gain key life skills, make a difference in the local community and gain valuable experience for their future careers.”
Chief Constable Mike Cunningham will be responsible for the operational delivery of the scheme.
He said: “Cadets will take part in lots of different activities and learn more about what it’s like to work for Staffordshire Police. They’ll get to wear their own police cadet uniform and work with members of Staffordshire Police to help keep communities safe and reassured.
“This could mean giving out safety advice to local people or helping us to find out about their concerns. They’ll also learn more about how we track down criminals, about the gadgets and equipment we use to fight crime and have a go at operational personal safety training.”
Cadets can also work towards Duke of Edinburgh bronze, silver and gold awards having a go at hiking, climbing and orienteering.
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Arnold, who is overseeing the initiative, said:
“This is a great opportunity for young people to develop social and leadership skills as well as helping with their self esteem, motivation and confidence – and crucially developing a relationship with the police.
“Cadets tend to operate like a family where discipline, friendship and teamwork are all important. By being a police cadet, you have the satisfaction of knowing that as a young person you are making a difference to your community and developing yourself for any future career.”
The deadline for application forms for the Cannock unit, which must be signed by a parent or guardian, is Thursday 29 August at 5pm. Forms can be downloaded from http://www.staffordshire.police.uk/cadets. Youngsters living outside the Cannock Chase District area can also register their interest in future units here.
