Dorset Police opens a new cadet unit in Christchurch
Dorset Police opened its fourth volunteer police cadet unit in Christchurch at the Grange School.
This new unit is an exciting opportunity for teenagers aged 13 to 17 to learn about the law, police procedures and specialist police units while developing a range of skills, including communication, interpersonal and teamwork.
Dorset Police has three other successful cadet units based in Bournemouth, Poole and Weymouth. These units actively see young people committed to serving their community through volunteering and acting as ambassadors for the Force.
Inspector Alyssa Forrest, who manages Dorset’s Volunteer Police Cadets, said: “It’s an exciting time for the Dorset Police Cadets. We’re pleased we can give more young people the opportunity to get involved through our partnerships with The Grange School.
“Being a police cadet is not about becoming a police officer; it’s about the young person investing in themself while supporting and doing something good for their communities. It’s a chance for young people to challenge themselves, gain confidence and grow.”
Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: “It is wonderful to see a new cadet unit open at The Grange School in Christchurch. The new unit provides an opportunity for young people to make a difference in their communities.
“I am incredibly proud and always in awe of the commitment and dedication of our police cadets. Cadets form an important part of our police family. I look forward to meeting them in the future and seeing how they develop and grow with the Grange Cadet Unit.”
Liz Garman, Headteacher at The Grange School, said: “We are delighted to have been selected as a centre for the Volunteer Police Cadets. We look forward to working with cadet leaders to offer this exciting programme to support the young people of Christchurch.
“Developing a sense of belonging and community is an important part of our next chapter here at The Grange School. Opportunities like this are really important in creating a positive culture.
“Giving young people the opportunity to participate positively in our community and show just how great they are will make a difference in how our young people feel and create a sense of belonging and being part of something really worthwhile and positive, something they feel proud of.
“I look forward to seeing this grow and have a positive impact on our community.”
Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I’m delighted that Christchurch is getting its own cadet unit. Grange Cadets is the latest group to join the police family. I know that the other units in Weymouth, Poole and Bournemouth will welcome their arrival.
“The cadet scheme encourages young people from all walks of life not only to learn new skills and make new friends but crucially to make a difference in their local neighbourhoods and communities as they gain a practical understanding of policing. Indeed, the Bourne Academy Cadet Unit was recently recognised at the annual Citizens in Policing Awards for its involvement in an undercover Child Sexual Exploitation operation.
“In the last year, Dorset Police has trebled the number of cadet units, which directly reflects the priority in my Police and Crime Plan to make policing more visible and connected. We are now seeing a greater expansion in this area of policing. Cadets make a genuine difference in the lives of others in Dorset, and I can’t wait to meet the recruits at Grange Cadets.”
The Force is currently recruiting for Cadet Leaders, an exciting and varied role. This role includes running weekly meetings, supporting outdoor activities, and policing events. To become a leader, please email Cadets@Dorset.PNN.Police.uk.
To find out more about police cadets, please visit: https://www.dorset.police.uk/recruitment/police-cadets/.