Police cadets
The Volunteer Police Cadets (VPC) is the nationally recognised police uniformed youth group throughout the UK. The purpose of the VPC is not to recruit police officers of the future, but to encourage the spirit of adventure and good citizenship amongst its members.
We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of his or her background. We encourage young people from all backgrounds to join, including those who may be vulnerable to crime or social exclusion.
The role of cadets
We have a diverse group of young people aged 13 to 18 years, who have the desire to support their local communities and gain an understanding of policing. The aims of the Voluntary Police Cadets (VPC) are to;
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promote a practical understanding of policing amongst young people
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encourage the spirit of adventure and good citizenship
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support local policing priorities by volunteering and giving young people a chance to be heard
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inspire young people to participate positively in their communities.
If you have any questions about being a cadet, you may wish to view frequently asked questions on the national Volunteer Police Cadets website.
Local cadets
Units normally meet at a school or community venue once a week and are led by police officers, police staff and volunteers. Cadets develop their leadership skills by undertaking challenging social action projects in their communities, with the expectation that they will volunteer three hours per month. Examples of social action projects include;
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supporting older members of the community understand cyber crime
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fund raising for charities and road safety campaigns.
Register your interest to become a cadet
Could you help strengthen the voice of young people in policing? Our volunteer cadet scheme encourages a spirit of adventure and good citizenship. It can even count towards a qualification or evidence voluntary work for the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
If you’re interested in policing and are aged between 13 and 18, becoming a cadet could be for you
If you would like to register your interest for the cadet programme and receive an email before we re-open recruitment, register your interest by using the form below
Become a cadet leader (adults only)
Do you have time to spare and wish to support your community and the young people of Cambridgeshire?
If you are over 18 years of age and are interested in volunteering your time to support our cadets, please get in touch with us [email protected].