About cadets

Interested in becoming a police cadet?

The Volunteer Police Cadets is the nationally recognised police uniformed youth group throughout England. It is open to teenagers from all backgrounds aged between 13 and 18*.

We have a vibrant, enthusiastic group of young people aged 13 to 17 years who represent the force as Volunteer Police Cadets.

We deliver a varied cadet programme in which you will learn about different aspects of policing, including an introduction to the law and how laws are applied, powers of arrest, the police caution, the criminal justice system and a whole range of police procedures.

In addition we encourage and support you to get involved with community-based social action projects. 

We also introduce you to the values and principles that underpin policing and we help and encourage you to develop and enhance key personal skills that will benefit you in the future.

The aims of the Volunteer Police Cadets 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

There are many benefits to being part of the Police Cadets, including:

• learning about Lincolnshire Police and developing your knowledge on a variety of policing topics
• meeting lots of different people and making new friends
• helping to reduce crime by taking part in local policing operations and representing Lincolnshire Police at community events
• helping to make a difference in your community through positive engagement with members of the public and social action activities
• gaining and developing valuable skills that can support you in your life, school, and future career
• gaining a sense of social responsibility and becoming a role model to others

Cadets are supported by police officers, police staff, and adult volunteers who give their time to share their knowledge and expertise of policing and their local communities. Volunteer cadet leaders are vetted, DBS checked, and undergo safeguarding training before starting.

As a Volunteer Police Cadet you will:

• attend weekly sessions where you have the opportunity to learn about a variety of policing topics and skills
• work together as a team with other cadets to partake in fitness and sports sessions and practice drill
• learn from police officers, police staff, and volunteers with a wide range of knowledge, experience, and skills
• attend ‘extra duties’ where you can get involved with your local community whilst representing Lincolnshire Police
• have a greater understanding of future career opportunities in policing

We currently have Police Cadet Corps in these locations across the county:

• Boston
• Bourne
• Grantham
• Lincoln
• Skegness
• Spalding

Cadet groups meet every Wednesday evening for two hours during term times between the hours of 6pm and 9pm (dependent on location).

*Recruitment age is 13 years through to 16 years, however you can remain as a cadet until the age of 18.