Volunteer Police Cadets

The Volunteer Police Cadets is the nationally recognised police uniformed youth group throughout the UK. 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 has a diverse group of young people aged 13 - 18 years, who have a joint desire to support their local communities and gain a practical understanding of policing. Units normally meet at a local school or community venue once a week and are led by police officers, police staff, and volunteers. In addition, cadets develop their leadership skills by undertaking challenging social action projects in their communities with an expectation that they will volunteer 3 hours a month. Examples of these projects include supporting older members of the community to understand cyber crime, fundraising for charities, and road safety campaigns.

The VPC is supported by a team, led by Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer of Devon & Cornwall Police. The team has developed the National Police Chiefs' Council-supported framework, sharing the common Aims and Principles of the VPC programmes operating in police forces across the UK.

They support the VPC through funding; developing resources and training; producing opportunities for cadets and leaders. Sharing good practices amongst VPC members ensures police engagement and education of cadets, recognising the role of young people within their communities and policing.