Volunteer police cadets
The Volunteer Police Cadets (VPC) is the nationally recognised police uniformed youth group. It is open to all young people aged 13 to 18.
Police Cadets isn't about recruiting police officers of the future. It's about building positive relationships between young people, their communities, and police.
We know that young people can make a real difference in their local community and can have a positive impact in society. The VPC programme works to give them an opportunity to do that. We provide them with a safe space to be heard, to grow in confidence and to thrive.
We encourage young people from all backgrounds to join our VPC programme. This includes those who may be vulnerable to crime or social exclusion.
We welcome young people of all abilities. If a recruit has special requirements, we will accommodate this wherever possible. This includes using the support of a carer provided by the cadet.
Those involved can also help us to shape future policing, making sure we offer a service that is relevant to them and the wider community, and suitable for the 21st Century.
Our aims are:
- To promote a practical understanding of policing amongst all young people.
- To encourage the spirit 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 participate positively 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.
