Dorset Police looking for volunteers to run cadet sessions
The force says the groups 'make a difference to young people's lives'
Dorset Police is looking to recruit more volunteers Police Cadet Leaders to join the force and help 'make an instrumental difference in young people's lives'.
Cadet units are already running in Blandford Forum, Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and Weymouth for 13 to 17 year olds.
Teenagers taking part learn about the law, police procedures, and specialist police units, as well as developing communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.
A team of volunteers is needed to help run the scheme for all units, but especially in Bournemouth, Broadstone (Poole) and Weymouth.
Leaders don't need previous police experience but must be interested in helping young people achieve their best and reach their full potential.
The role includes running weekly meetings, supporting outdoor activities, and policing events.
Assistant Chief Officer Jo Mosley, Director of People and Support Services at Dorset Police, said:
“Being a cadet leader is not just about meeting our Force vision and local policing priorities. It’s about being instrumental in the development, encouragement, and empowerment of the young people of Dorset. It’s about giving them a voice and helping them achieve things they never believed possible. It’s about making a lasting difference in their lives and our community.
“It only takes one adult to change one young person’s life forever, and this is why we are recruiting more people to join our cadet leader team. I encourage anyone interested in giving something back to the community to visit our Force website to learn more.”
Cadet Leader Suzanne Millwood joined Dorset police as a cadet leader in 2019 when cadets in Dorset started in its current format. Suzanne said:
”I was a cadet as a teenager and felt it helped me grow as a young person.
“Over the years, I have met many cadet leaders from different walks of life. I have watched young people start as shy 13-year-olds and leave us as confident young adults. For me, being able to guide, in any small way, a young person, especially those that have not had or have an easy ride in life, is the biggest reward for this voluntary position.”
You can apply to become a Dorset Police Cadet Leader by emailing [email protected]