Community-minded business bosses are being urged to invest in tomorrow’s leaders today.
Staffordshire Young Police Cadets were launched earlier this year to strengthen links between the police and young people.
The first 33 cadets joined in April with a number carrying out their initial uniformed duties at the High Sheriff’s charity ball at Thorpe Hall on 28 June. They also engaged with the public during a ‘Let’s Talk- Saturday’ event in Lichfield with Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis on 13 July.
Businesses are now being asked to step up and contribute – no matter how large or small the amount – to fund uniforms and equipment for the cadets as part of the business-sponsored partnership.
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Arnold, who is overseeing the initiative, said: “We’re giving business leaders the chance to be at the vanguard of a programme that is making a positive difference to our communities.
“The workforce of tomorrow – on which so much depends – will be greatly enriched by the investment that’s being poured into these young people now.
“This is not about recruiting new police officers – it’s about promoting good citizenship, personal responsibility and leadership skills through the cadets’ programme.
“We’re determined that this will run at no cost to the local tax-payer with money coming from business sponsorship and not operational police budgets.
“However much they contribute, sponsors can rest assured that they will be making a positive contribution to the long-term economy of Staffordshire by supporting this vibrant youth programme.”
The first unit of cadets are based at police headquarters in Stafford with others set to be rolled out throughout the county and the city of Stoke-on-Trent in coming months. Cadets pay £2 subs a week and uniforms are provided free of charge.
Two schemes are being developed for different age groups. Fourteen to seventeen year old boys and girls can join the senior cadets and a junior scheme will cater for ten to thirteen-year-olds.
Cadets are also able to work towards Duke of Edinburgh bronze, silver and gold awards having a go at hiking, climbing and orienteering.
People can follow the progress of the cadets at www.facebook.com/StaffsCadets
For more details on how to become a sponsor, businesses should contact Sue Arnold by calling 01785 232270 or emailing sue.arnold@staffordshire.pcc.pnn.gov.uk
