Volunteer police cadets
Volunteer Police Cadets (VPC) is a national, uniformed youth group linked to the police. It is open to all young people aged 13 to 18.
The aim of Police Cadets is not to recruit future police officers. Instead, it focuses on building positive relationships between young people, their communities and the police.
We know that young people can make a real difference in their local areas and have a positive impact on society. The VPC programme gives them the chance to do this. It offers a safe space where they can be heard, build confidence and develop.
We encourage young people from all backgrounds to join, including those who may be vulnerable to crime or social exclusion.
We welcome young people of all abilities. If someone has additional needs, we will support them wherever possible. This may include help from a carer who joins them at sessions.
Cadets also help shape future policing. This helps us make sure the service we provide is relevant to them, to their communities, and suited to modern-day policing.
Our aims
- To help young people understand what policing involves in a practical way
- To encourage a sense of adventure and good citizenship
- To support local policing priorities through volunteering, and give young people a chance to be heard
- To inspire young people to play a positive role in their communities
Essex Police cadets
In Essex we have currently have eight active Cadet Units which are based across the county and meet one evening a week.
Our Units are:
- Basildon – meet on a Thursday evening.
- Colchester – meet on a Tuesday evening
- Clacton – meet on a Thursday evening
- Epping – meet on a Tuesday evening.
- Harlow – meet on a Wednesday evening
- Harwich – meet on a Monday evening.
- Southend – meet on a Wednesday evening.
- Thurrock – meet on a Monday evening.
Become a cadet
If you or someone you know is interested in joining one of our cadet units, let us know by registering your interest with us.
Once recruitment for the unit opens, the young person will be invited to enrol. They’ll be able to attend an event hosted by the unit and given the opportunity to speak to the cadet leaders. They'll be able to find out more about the unit and speak to some of the young people already involved.
As part of the enrolment process, we will conduct a basic police and identity check. We will also check eligibility to join the programme.
But it’s important to know that if the applicant has been in trouble with the police before, it doesn’t mean they can’t become a cadet. Decisions are based upon making sure everyone stays safe.
