999 Cadets

The 999 Cadet scheme was launched in June 2009 and was a joint initiative between Devon and Cornwall Police and Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.

The scheme was set up to teach young people skills such as team work, citizenship, communication, discipline and the confidence to stand up for what is right.

Through multi-agency working and funded by Safer Communities Torbay, the scheme aims to encourage young people to become positive role models within their peer groups, giving them the opportunity to experience structured discipline, mentoring and valuable life skills.

The scheme was self-funding which it achieved by organising fundraising events such as charity carwashes. The cadets have also aided Torbay Council’s Trading Standards Team with alcohol and firework test purchasing operations, marshalling at the Watcombe Bonfire Party and the Hele Street Party and helping with the running of the Fire Service Open Day.

Police and Fire officers who facilitated the group volunteered their time and were successful in arranging for other services to deliver training on a volunteer basis. The cadets received first aid training from the ambulance service and made educational trips to both Police and Fire Headquarters in Middlemoor.

During 2011, the 999 cadet scheme transfered to South Devon College. Although many changes have been made to how the cadets are coordinated, many of the principles remains the same. Open applications to the cadets are no longer avaliable instead those young peopel who take part are now students studying Public Serivces at South Devon College.