999 Cadets make impression at Neighbourhood Watch AGM

As part of an initiative by Safer Communities Torbay to bridge the gap between the bay’s younger and older residents, the 999 Cadets attended the Neighbourhood Watch Annual General Meeting at the end of April.

Helping out by directing people and serving teas and coffees, the Cadets proved themselves to be role models to their peers. Three of the young members also overcame any nerves they might have had by getting up and giving a presentation to the group. A resounding success, the presentation focused on the reasons why they wanted to join the Cadets and what they have gained from the experience so far. In addition to having fun and socialising with other young people from across the bay, the youngsters talked about the team spirit, confidence and discipline they had gained, and how they had learnt about the impact of the services on their communities.

After the meeting and during the breaks, the groups mingled and shared experiences of life in Torbay as a younger and older person. Barriers were lifted and a true appreciation of the cultural differences between the two generations was realised.

PC Nick Healey, organised their presence at the AGM:

“It was a resounding success. After the cadets had left I stayed until the end and found myself surrounded by some of the bay’s older generation who said how fantastic, well disciplined and confident the cadets are and what lovely, polite young people they seemed. One gentleman came up to me and said that he and others of his generation ‘had a dim view of young people nowadays’.  However, meeting the cadets had changed his view, understanding now that it was a very small minority that had tainted young people’s reputations.”

“All I can say is that last night went an awful long way to starting some of the inter-generational work being undertaken by Safer Communities Torbay.”

Pat Stockbridge, Secretary of the Neighbourhood Watch Torbay District Forum, commented:

“The cadets were polite and helpful, and obviously enjoyed themselves. From the remarks at the end of the meeting it was clear that they made a great impression on everyone, especially the three young people who spoke so well - Our heartfelt thanks to you all.”

The event was such a success that the Cadets will also be attending the Age Concern Torbay Safety Day on the 2 June 2010.

To find out more about visit 999 Cadets page.