Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis visited the newest Cadet unit in Stoke-on-Trent to catch up with their progress and watch them drill.
The Cadet scheme was initiated by Mr 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, was launched six weeks ago and meets at Sandyford Community Fire Station on Friday evenings from 7 until 9.30 for youngsters aged 14 to 17.
Mr Ellis said: “Visiting the Stoke on Trent North Cadets has been a great opportunity for me to see how they have progressed and to hear how much they are enjoying the scheme.
“In just over 12 months since the first unit was launched, the service has made a real difference to the lives of around 100 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.”
“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.
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
