Volunteers from Staffordshire Police Cadets scheme were awarded with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service at a special ceremony in Stafford.
Around 60 volunteer cadet leaders from 10 units across the county were given the award by Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire for their exceptional service.
Volunteers give up their own time to run units and help mentor and build the skills of 300 cadets aged between 13 and 18 years of age.
The Staffordshire Police Cadet scheme was launched in 2013 by the Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime, Matthew Ellis. The scheme is delivered by Staffordshire Police.
Mr Ellis said: ‘I was delighted to be at County Buildings to celebrate the award by Her Majesty the Queen for the Staffordshire Cadets’ volunteers – the people who make the Cadets work, the people who are growing it, the people who are making it such an amazing success. They have been recognised, and quite rightly.
‘Creating Staffordshire Police Cadets was an election pledge – the idea is to develop life skills, build confidence and encourage good citizenship.
‘The cadets scheme would not be possible without volunteers who give up their time to guide and mentor the cadets. Their role is invaluable in helping to bring a sense of civic duty and character-building to youngsters.’
Chief Constable Gareth Morgan said: ‘This prestigious award from her Majesty the Queen is a significant honour to receive. The scheme has grown rapidly since 2013 and I am delighted that so many of the cadets with the volunteers’ support have developed their confidence and skills in the service of communities here in Staffordshire.
‘None of this would have been possible without their commitment and hard work and I am immensely grateful and proud of each and every one of our volunteers.’
Anyone interested in becoming a Staffordshire Police Cadet or would like more information on volunteering as a leader can call 01785 232221 or email cadets@staffordshire.pnn.police.uk.
Photographs of the volunteers from each of the 10 units are available on request.
