Cannock youngsters tried their uniforms on for size at the launch of the second Staffordshire Young Police Cadets unit last night (Tuesday).
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.
Following the successful launch of a Cadets unit in Stafford, around 30 youngsters, aged 14 to 17, and their families attended the opening event for the Cannock unit yesterday.
Mr Ellis said: “Staffordshire’s Young Police Cadets 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.
“It isn’t about recruiting police officers – it’s about developing young people and giving them a sense of civic duty, building character and helping them become responsible citizens.
“We’ve already had great feedback about the Stafford unit from members of the public and I’m sure that the Cannock Cadets will be a big success.”
The new unit will meet every Monday evening at Cannock Community Fire Station.
Chief Constable Mike Cunningham said: “Cadets take part in lots of different activities and learn more about what police life is like. They get to wear their own police cadet uniform and help keep communities safe and reassured.
“This could mean giving out safety advice to local people or helping us to find out about their concerns. They also learn more about how we track down criminals, about the gadgets and equipment we use to fight crime and have a go at operational personal safety training.”
As well as filling in registration forms, the new Cadets were measured for their uniforms which are being sponsored by the Chase Community Partnership.
Councillor George Adamson, Leader of Cannock Chase Council, said: “The Chase Community Partnership is delighted to sponsor the cadet scheme in Cannock. This is a fantastic opportunity for young people in the District to learn how our local police operate to track down criminals in the area. They will gain key life skills, make a difference in the local community and gain valuable experience for their future careers.”
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. Businesses are being 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. Police Mutual became the inaugural Patrons after paying for uniforms for Cadets in the Stafford unit.
