Young people from the Staffordshire Police Cadet Burslem unit recently starred on national television.
Matthew Ellis, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire, set up the Cadet scheme in 2013 as a way to engage youngsters in Staffordshire between the ages of 14 and 17 and help them build skills for the future. Successful Cadet units have been launched in Stafford, Cannock, Burslem, Tamworth and Longton.
The Burslem unit was recently featured on BBC Breakfast as part of a story about the impact of the Police and Crime Commissioners and the positive impact Mr Ellis is making in Staffordshire. They were filmed by BBC Breakfast practicing safety skills and other training.
Sophie Turnock, 17, a Police Cadet from Burslem told the BBC: “It’s definitely made me more confident, when I came here I was all quiet, like I wouldn’t talk to anyone, I’d wait for someone to come and talk to me first. But now I’m outgoing, I’ll go and talk to anyone and everyone because of this place.”
Fellow Cadet Jamie Beardmore, 17, added: “When I got in I was just overjoyed with myself, jumping around the room and everything. I couldn’t believe it.”
Matthew Ellis, Police and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire, said: “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 Police Cadets work towards several nationally recognised qualifications including team-working and citizenship. Many of the cadets have noticed that through the scheme they are becoming not only more confident and outgoing, but that they are also benefiting both socially and academically, all while helping to build links between the police and young people.
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Arnold said: “The Cadets depend on financial support from businesses and other organisations to thrive. As the service expands we’re looking for more people to get involved and help make a real difference to young people’s lives.”
Businesses are 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.
To find out more information on the Police Cadets or how you can support the Police Cadets go to: www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets
