Volunteer Police Cadets (VPC)

The Volunteer Police Cadets (VPC) are a diverse group of young people aged 13 - 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.

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 in a fun, friendly and exciting way.

We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive regardless of his or her background. We encourage young people from all backgrounds, social group, gender, ethnicity, ability / disability and whether you have an interest in the police or not to join the VPC, including those who may be vulnerable to the influences of crime and social exclusion.

Aims of the VPC

• 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

Benefits of being a cadet:

• Make new friendships
• Take part in fun and exciting activities
• Support your own community through volunteering and social action projects
• Challenge yourself to learn and develop new skills
• Gain an insight into British policing

More information can be found at the Volunteer Police Cadets website.

How to apply

Submit an application of interest form which will be passed to your nearest unit. New applications are accepted from young people between the ages of 13 and 17 years. Please note that most units only recruit once or twice a year and hold substantial waiting lists. This may mean you do not get an immediate response to your enquiry.

Units are currently running in: Adur and Worthing, Chichester and Arun, Horsham, Mid Sussex (Haywards Heath), Crawley, Wealden (Hailsham), Eastbourne and Brighton.

Our leaders

Our units within Sussex are run by an amazing team of leaders who give up their time to support our cadets. They come from a range of roles, including officers, special constables, PCSOs, police staff and police volunteers. All of our leaders are DBS checked and complete safeguarding and other mandatory training.

We are always looking for additional volunteer leaders, if you meet the criteria below and would like more information submit a Volunteer Cadet Leader application form.

Can you:

• Give some of your own time volunteering as a unit leader?
• Provide guidance and support for the VPC?
• Assist your local police force?
• Be part of something exciting in your own community?

Are you:

• Over 18 years old?
• From any background, ethnicity or social group?
• Interested in learning new skills including the option of a nationally accredited training qualification?
• Interested in learning more about your local police?
• Looking for a rewarding and fulfilling occupation?