Staffordshire Young Police Cadets attended the formal opening of the High Court term in Stafford town centre yesterday (Wed).
Members of the Cadets unit in Stafford took part in the event to signal the start of the Michaelmas Term at Stafford Crown Court.
They included Cadet Sam Downing who carried the ceremonial sword alongside the High Sheriff, Miss Susie Lillingston, in the procession to the court.
The Cadet scheme was a key election pledge for Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis. It aims to strengthen links between the police and young people and promote good citizenship.
Mr Ellis, who also attended the court opening, said: “This was a real showcase for Staffordshire’s Young Police Cadets.
“I’m really pleased for Sam Downing and his family as Sam was chosen to carry the ceremonial sword for the opening of the High Court.
“It was absolutely brilliant to see the Police Cadets looking superb in their uniforms and I was really bowled over by the reaction of the public.
“Staffordshire’s Young Police Cadets Service is all about encouraging young people – some from challenging backgrounds – through a positive and vibrant programme.
“The heart of the scheme is to reconnect youngsters more widely with the police service in Staffordshire. It’s about developing young people and giving them a sense of civic duty, building character and helping them become responsible citizens.”
Following the successful launch of the Stafford unit, a Cadets unit in Cannock was launched last week with further units to follow.
Cadets work towards Duke of Edinburgh bronze, silver and gold awards having a go at hiking, climbing and orienteering.
Chief Constable Mike Cunningham said: “Cadets take part in lots of different activities and learn more about what police life is like. They get to wear their own police cadet uniform and 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 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.”
The Commissioner has stated that he will not redirect money that’s used for frontline policing to fund the Cadets Service. Businesses are being invited to become Patrons 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.
For more details on Cadets and the patronage scheme visit
www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets
