PCC Matthew Ellis is looking forward to welcoming even more recruits to the Staffordshire Young Police Cadets Service in 2014.
Cadet units have flourished in Cannock and Stafford since their launch in 2013. More will follow across Staffordshire in the coming months with the next unit due to open in Stoke-on-Trent in February.
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. Businesses are being invited to back the growing scheme by becoming Sponsors or Patrons.
Mr Ellis said: “In just nine months 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.
“The service is all about giving advantages to young people – some from challenging backgrounds – who through a positive and vibrant programme can learn how to become responsible citizens.
“This is not about youngsters from elite and advantaged backgrounds. It’s about giving young people an opportunity to build character and a sense of civic duty, no matter what their challenges, giving them leadership skills and an understanding of what it is to be a good citizen.
“I’m really looking forward to welcoming more young people into the service as it spreads across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent in 2014.”
Cadets work towards Duke of Edinburgh bronze, silver and gold awards having a go at hiking, climbing and orienteering. In recent weeks, they have assisted officers conducting roadside checks in a crackdown on drink driving.
Chief Constable Mike Cunningham said: “I am very proud of the young people who have joined the Staffordshire Police Cadets units in Stafford and Cannock. The dedication and commitment of those young people gives me confidence in the future.
“Every week they learn new skills and they are already making a fantastic contribution to their communities as well as gaining a real insight into our work.”
The Stoke-on-Trent Cadets Unit will start meeting at Sandyford Community Fire Station on Friday evenings in February. More details about the scheme will be announced at www.facebook.com/StaffsCadets in due course.
Meanwhile, tickets are now on-sale for 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 www.lichfieldgarrick.com
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 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. They attended last night’s ceremony along with other supporters.
For more details on Cadets and the patronage scheme visit www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets
