People in Lichfield and Burntwood are being asked to donate and support Staffordshire’s police cadets service.
The scheme has already seen units launched in Cannock and Stafford and plans are already underway to launch in other areas across the county.
But because the roll-out is funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Corporate Social Resonsibilty Fund – a registered charity – more support is needed.
Businesses are being asked to come forward to sponsor the cadets, while individuals can also now make donations of £3, £5, £10 or any other amount by texting ‘CDET17 £3 (or another amount)’ to 70070.
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Arnold said: “Less than a year since the first unit was launched, the service has made a real difference to the lives of 60 young people.
“I’ve heard several stories about how being a Cadet has turned around a young person’s life – giving them confidence and a sense of purpose and responsibility.
“People in Lichfield and Burntwood can now make a positive difference to the lives of these and many more young people by simply texting a donation, however large or small.
“The service is all about giving advantages to young people – some from challenging backgrounds – who through a positive and vibrant programme can learn how to become responsible citizens.
“This is not about youngsters from elite and advantaged backgrounds. It’s about giving young people an opportunity to build character and a sense of civic duty, no matter what their challenges, giving them leadership skills and an understanding of what it is to be a good citizen.
“I’m really looking forward to welcoming more young people into the service as it spreads across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent in 2014.”
People can also support the Cadets through a fundraising concert for the Cadets by the British Police Symphony Orchestra at Lichfield Garrick Theatre on April 12. For more information visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com.
