A leading family-owned company have become the latest to step up to support Staffordshire’s Police Cadet Service by becoming patrons.
Alrewas-based the Leavesley Group has committed £15,000 to the Cadets over the next three years.
The Cadet scheme was launched by Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis to strengthen links between the police and young people and promote good citizenship.
Successful Cadet units have been launched in Stafford, Cannock, Stoke-on-Trent and, most recently, Tamworth.
Deputy PCC Sue Arnold said: “This is wonderful news for the ongoing success of the Cadets in Staffordshire and I’d like to say a big thank you to the Leavesley Group for their generosity,
“Patrons like the Leavesley Group are helping make the Cadets Service sustainable and are key to its future development. Their money will allow us to plan activities and training, helping the scheme to be as effective as possible, and allow more and more young people the opportunity to become a Cadet.
“Since the Cadets were launched in 2013, the service has made a real difference to the lives of so many young people – with other units set to open in the coming months.
“We are grateful for all donations received, no matter how big or small they are. 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.”
The Commissioner has stated that he will not redirect money that’s used for frontline policing to fund the Cadets Service so the support of local businesses to fund uniforms, equipment and activities is crucial.
James Leavesley, from the Leavesley Group, said: “We are delighted to donate £15,000 over three years towards Staffordshire’s Police Cadets. This scheme plays a valuable crime prevention role, inspiring young people to put their time and energy into something positive for the benefit of their local community and encouraging them to develop skills which will help them in their future employment.”
Johnny Leavesley, current High Sheriff of Staffordshire, added: “In my role as High Sheriff, I understand how important it is to provide young people with positive role models to divert them away from criminal behaviour and motivate them to achieve success. This donation will enhance the work of the Cadets and ensure more young people are given a platform to improve their skills and confidence.”
Leavesley Group has become a platinum patron by pledging £5,000 a year for three years. In return for becoming a Patron, businesses’ contributions are recognised through publicity, a framed certificate and other opportunities.
For more details on Cadets and the patronage scheme visit www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets
