Youngsters in Stoke-on-Trent can now apply to join the newest unit of Staffordshire Young Police Cadets.
The Cadet scheme was initiated by Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis to strengthen links between the police and young people and promote good citizenship.
Cadet units have flourished in Cannock and Stafford since their launch in 2013. The third unit, in Stoke-on-Trent, will soon start meeting at Sandyford Community Fire Station on Friday evenings from 7 until 9.30 for youngsters aged 14 to 17.
Mr Ellis said: “It’s been less than a year since the first Cadet unit was launched but the service has already 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. It’s fantastic that Stoke-on-Trent can now benefit from having a Cadets unit as well.
“This is 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 continues to spread across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.”
Cadets work towards Duke of Edinburgh bronze, silver and gold awards having a go at hiking, climbing and orienteering.
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.”
For more details on joining the Stoke-on-Trent unit visit www.facebook.com/StaffsCadets
The Commissioner has stated that he will not redirect money that’s used for frontline policing to fund the Cadets Service. It is funded through the Staffordshire Commissioner’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Fund which is a registered charity and now has its own text message account on JustGiving, the leading web platform for charitable giving. People can make donations of £2, £5, £10 or any other amount by texting ‘CDET17 £2 (or another amount)’ to 70070.
Businesses are also 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. More information is available at www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets
Tickets are now also 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
