Volunteer Police Cadets

The Volunteer Police Cadets is the nationally recognised police uniformed youth group throughout England & Wales and in Scotland known as Police Scotland Youth Volunteers. Whilst being a national movement, all forces work to a national standard, whilst ensuring local volunteer police cadets operate flexibly in local police forces with individual forces being responsible for their delivery. The sharing of good practice and learning is encouraged at a national level. The police officers, police staff and adult volunteers who support cadet units are expected, to uphold the highest standards in line with the values of British policing. The National VPC is a part of the wider National Citizens in Policing portfolio. All forces operate under the National Police Chiefs' Council supported framework, sharing the common Aims and Principles of the VPC across England & Wales. The purpose of the VPC is not to recruit police officers of the future, but to encourage the spirit of adventure and good citizenship amongst its members. We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive regardless of his or her background. We encourage young people from all backgrounds to join the VPC, including those who may be vulnerable to the influences of crime and social exclusion. The Aims of the VPC 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. The VPC, encompassing Mini Police, is a diverse group of young people aged 8 - 18 years, who have a desire to support their local communities and gain a practical understanding of policing, developing their leadership skills by undertaking challenging social action projects in their communities. There is no expectation of forces to operate the entire Mini-Police & VPC offer and this is outlined in the strategy as an aspirational vision. The delivery and management of local units is supported by volunteers and other members of the Policing family which include police officers and police staff. We have a vision to be a world-class, socially inclusive uniformed youth group based on the values of British policing, demonstrating every day positive impact in our local communities. This is based on four national objectives- Making a difference in local communities, building character, confidence and contribution through youth-led social action. Actively helping divert young people away from negative influences and crime Building trust and confidence between young people, their communities and the police. Enabling young people to have a real voice and influence in building a positive, relevant 21st century policing.