The Conservative candidate to be Devon and Cornwall's first Police and Crime Commissioner has promised to set up a branch of the Police Cadets in every town. The former Naval Commander's number one priority is to cut crime by bringing policing closer to the public and, as part of that he has called for a renewed effort to develop the Police Cadets to give young people a strong sense of social responsibility.
Mr Hogg wants to build on the existing network of Police Cadets in Devon and Cornwall, open to all young people between the ages of 13 and 18. The Cadets learn key policing skills as well as having the opportunity to undertake a variety of challenging outdoor activities. They are then encouraged to apply these skills to make a difference in their local communities.
Tony Hogg, former CEO of a youth charity which aims to turn around the lives of the hardest to reach young people said, "David Cameron has talked about the potential to develop a modern day national service through the government's National Citizens Service scheme but I think other agencies can play a role too. There are already some good examples of local branches of the Police Cadets here in Devon and Cornwall. I want to see these expanded by working much more closely with schools and by tasking an individual PCSO at every Police Station to drive forward recruitment so that young people feel part of the police force that is there to protect their community.
Police Officers are fantastic role models and being a Police Cadet helps young people develop important social skills and become a valuable part of their local community."
Tony Hogg has also made clear his intention to spend time each week on the front line if elected and is even planning to enrol as a volunteer or police Special Constable so that he can see first-hand what is happening on the ground.
ENDS
Contact: Tony Hogg on 07799 661795
Notes for EditorsThe stated aims of the Police Cadet scheme are:* Promote positive images of young people and the police in the community.* Help young people develop skills, social responsibility and knowledge to make good life choices.* Facilitate links between police and young people whilst developing an understanding of police and community working.* Develop stronger communities, and an awareness amongst young people of their community and environment in which they live.* More information can be found at http://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/GetInvolved/cadets/Pages/About.aspx