A new police cadet scheme has been launched by Staffordshire’s police and crime commissioner Matthew Ellis – and 14 and 15-year-olds in Stone can be the first to sign up.
Applications for a pilot scheme for up to 30 cadets aged 14 and 15 covering Stafford Borough are now being accepted. It is anticipated that there will be around 180 cadets across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent by the end of the year, split into junior and senior groups.
Chief Constable Mike Cunningham will be responsible for the operational delivery of the scheme. He said: “They’ll get to wear their own police cadet uniform and work with members of Staffordshire Police to 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’ll 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.”
Cadets will also work towards Duke of Edinburgh bronze, silver and gold awards.
The police cadet scheme was launched today with a YouTube Harlem Shake video, the latest online dance craze…
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Arnold, who is overseeing the initiative, said: “The first pilot unit for up to 30 senior cadets will be based at police headquarters in Stafford and we’re urging interested 14 and 15-years-olds in the borough to get involved. This is a great opportunity for young people to develop social and leadership skills as well as helping with their self esteem, motivation and confidence – and crucially developing a relationship with the police.
“Cadets tend to operate like a family where discipline, friendship and teamwork are all important. By being a police cadet, you have the satisfaction of knowing that as a young person you are making a difference to your community and developing yourself for any future career.”
PCC Matthew Ellis says the cadet scheme aims to strengthen links between the police and young people and promote good citizenship.
The deadline for application forms for the Stafford unit, which must be signed by a parent or guardian, is Friday 22nd March at 5pm. Forms can be downloaded from www.staffordshire.police.uk/cadets
