Force supports national week to celebrate the contribution of its cadets and volunteers
Dorset Police will join other organisations across the UK to mark the first-ever National Cadets Week, recognising the incredible contribution made by cadets and cadet leaders across the country.
Running from Monday 5 October to Sunday 11 October 2026, National Cadets Week aims to recognise the cadet scheme, showcasing the valuable skills it develops in young people.
It is an opportunity to celebrate the significant contribution made by cadets and volunteers within Dorset Police and recognise them for their commitment, teamwork and leadership, developing skills that benefit them throughout their lives while making a positive difference within their communities.
Our Volunteer Police Cadet scheme is all about bringing young people, the police and the community closer together. It’s a great opportunity for those aged 13 to 17 to get involved, make new friends, try new challenges and make a positive difference – both for themselves and the communities around them.
We are proud to host five cadet units across the county in Blandford Forum, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and Weymouth, with each cadet unit offering a unique and exciting opportunity.
The scheme provides young people with opportunities to build confidence, resilience, leadership skills, teamwork and a sense of community. Through activities ranging from social action, volunteering in their local communities, to learning about crime prevention, diversity and the role of police in society. Our cadets gain experiences that help prepare them for future education, employment and life opportunities.
Police Cadet Nora, aged 17, said: “Being a police cadet for four years has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life so far. It has given me the opportunity to be an active part of my community and make a positive difference to the people around me.
“Throughout my time as a cadet, I have developed strong communication skills, grown in confidence, and learnt valuable life skills that I know will stay with me for years to come. I've also had the privilege of making incredible friends and creating memories I'll never forget. My ambition is to become a police officer, and my time as a police cadet has given me an excellent foundation to build on as I work towards achieving that goal.”
Assistant Chief Officer Jo Mosley, Director of People and Support Services, said: “I am delighted to support National Cadets Week and recognise the invaluable contribution made by cadets and volunteers, not only in our force, but across the country.
“It is an opportunity to recognise our cadets and the cadet leaders who help make these experiences possible. Our cadet programme has a lasting impact on communities, helping young people build resilience, leadership skills and a strong sense of civic responsibility. We are proud to support this celebration and I would like to thank them all for their dedication, enthusiasm, professionalism and service.”
Throughout the week, we'll be shining a light on some of our cadets and the cadet leaders who help inspire the next generation of leaders – so please keep an eye out for these posts on our social media channels.
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, said: “I have always been a strong supporter of the Dorset Police Cadet scheme and have advocated for its growth. When I became PCC, there was just one troop in Bournemouth; today, there are five troops positioned across the county. It is fantastic to see the scheme grow and to see more young people given the opportunity to get involved.
“Being a police cadet is not only about learning about policing in Dorset. It gives young people opportunities to build confidence, develop leadership and teamwork skills, take on responsibility and experience things they may not otherwise have the chance to do.
“Dorset’s Police Cadets are a valued part of the wider policing family, acting as ambassadors for Dorset Police and supporting their communities at events and activities across the county.
“I also want to recognise the dedicated volunteers who give their time to support our cadets. Their commitment helps create opportunities for young people to grow, learn and develop, and I hope this first National Cadets Week shines a light on the difference they make.”
If you would like to learn more about joining the cadets, please visit: Volunteer police cadets | Dorset Police or alternatively email: Cadets@dorset.pnn.police.uk
We are recruiting for cadet leaders now! If you know someone who would like to join, or wish to join yourself, please visit our website for further information: Volunteer cadet leader | Dorset Police
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