Staffordshire’s Police Cadet Service has received a welcome donation of £2,500 from the Lichfield Greenhill Bower Committee. This donation will contribute to the new Lichfield Cadet Unit which will commence later this year. Successful units have already been launched in Stafford, Cannock and Stoke-on-Trent North with a fourth starting in the next few weeks in Tamworth.
Introducing the Cadet scheme was a commitment made by 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 said: “The Staffordshire Police Cadet 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. We’re giving business leaders the chance to be part of a programme that is making a positive difference to our communities.
“Since unit was launched in 2013, the service has made a real difference to the lives of so many 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. The latest recruitment in Tamworth means we have over 100 Staffordshire Police Cadets. I want to see this figure raise to 180 by the end of the year.
“We are grateful for all donations received, no matter how big or small they are. I’d like to personally say a big thank you to the Lichfield Bower on behalf of Staffordshire’s young Police Cadets. 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. Businesses are 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.
Chairman of the Lichfield Bower Michael Mullarkey said: “The donation to the Staffordshire Police Cadets will benefit everyone in the local community. The Cadet scheme really is a worthy cause.”
For more details on Cadets and the patronage scheme visit www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets
