Plans for a new police cadet unit in Lichfield have been boosted by a £2,500 donation.
The money has come from the the Lichfield Greenhill Bower Committee and will be used to support the launch of the new group later this year.
The cadet schemes were launched by Staffordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis and have already been launched in Stafford, Cannock and Stoke-on-Trent North.
“It is all about encouraging young people – some from challenging backgrounds – through a positive and vibrant programme,” said Mr Ellis.
“The heart of the scheme is to reconnect youngsters more widely with the police service in Staffordshire. We’re giving business leaders the chance to be part of a programme that is making a positive difference to our communities.
“Since the first unit was launched in 2013, the service has made a real difference to the lives of so many 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.”
Mr Ellis says he is keen to see the cadet scheme continue to grow.
“We already have over 100 Staffordshire Police Cadets – I want to see this figure raise to 180 by the end of the year.
“We are grateful for all donations received, no matter how big or small they are. I’d like to personally say a big thank you to the Lichfield Bower.
“The workforce of tomorrow – on which so much depends – will be greatly enriched by the investment that’s being poured into these young people now.”
Chairman of the Lichfield Bower, Michael Mullarkey, said: “The donation to the Staffordshire Police Cadets will benefit everyone in the local community.
“The cadet scheme really is a worthy cause.”
For more details on the police cadets scheme visit www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets.
