Staffordshire’s young Police Cadets Service has received a welcome donation from a Wolverhampton-based businesswoman.
Launched in 2013, the Cadet Service aims to strengthen links between police and young people in an initiative which was a key pledge for Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis.
Mr Ellis has stated that he will not redirect money intended for frontline policing to fund the Cadets Service.
Mel Riley, owner of self-run counselling business Mel Riley Counselling decided to donate £50 after seeing a funding appeal on Twitter.
Mel said: “I don’t think there are enough pastimes to engage children and teens and as a result they get bored, depressed and sometimes give up on having a future. It’s a story I hear way too often.
“I think we need to inspire and support our young people, rather than blame and judge them. When I spotted the plea on Twitter I decided to answer it.”
Since their launch, Cadet units have flourished in Cannock and Stafford with 60 young people taking part every week. More will follow across Staffordshire soon with the next due to open in Stoke-on-Trent this month.
Deputy PCC Sue Arnold, who is leading the scheme on behalf of Mr Ellis, said: “Less than a year since the first unit was launched, the service has made a real difference to the lives of 60 young people. I’ve heard several stories about how being a Cadet has turned around a young person’s life – giving them confidence and a sense of purpose and responsibility.
“We are grateful for any donations received, no matter how big or small they are. I’d like to personally say a big thank you to Mel on behalf of Staffordshire’s young Police Cadets.”
Meanwhile, businesses are being invited to become Patrons or Sponsors to help fund uniforms and equipment for the Cadets. In return for becoming a Patron, businesses’ contributions are recognised through publicity, a framed certificate and other opportunities. Police Mutual became the inaugural Patrons after paying for uniforms for Cadets in the Stafford unit.
People can also support the Cadets through a fundraising concert for the Cadets by the British Police Symphony Orchestra at Lichfield Garrick Theatre on Saturday 12 April, 7.30pm. For more information visit
For more details on Cadets and the patronage scheme visit
www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets
Mel offers a range of counselling sessions including Dog Assisted Therapy, where she uses her two pet dogs dubbed the ‘Pawsome Team’ to help engage with clients.
For more information visit
