The Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) is backing the UK's first National Cadets Week, an initiative celebrating the role of cadet movements in developing young people and communities. The week, sponsored by the Ministry of Defence, brings together the Sea Cadet Corps, Volunteer Cadet Corps, Army Cadet Force, Air Training Corps, and Combined Cadet Force, which collectively support 137,000 cadets and 28,000 adult volunteers.
Among these volunteers are CNC officers and staff who serve as Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs), helping young people develop confidence, leadership, teamwork, and practical life skills. Employers are being encouraged to offer five days of paid volunteering leave for CFAVs, a provision already in place at the CNC through Special Paid Leave.
PC Mel Bishop, an Authorised Firearms Officer with the CNC, has volunteered with the Army Cadets for nearly 25 years, including 18 years as an adult instructor. She stated that her role involves working with young people aged 12 to 18, assisting them in developing various skills. PC Bishop noted that the Army Cadets significantly contributed to her personal development, motivating her to give back to the organisation.
PC Bishop, who joined the CNC in 2024, believes that the skills gained through the Army Cadets complement her policing career. She also highlighted the CNC's support for her voluntary role, which enables her to continue contributing to an organisation she is passionate about.