Adult volunteers needed to join Army Cadet Force

The East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association is launching a recruitment drive across the county, seeking adults to join training locations.

An advertising campaign went live this week on buses across Northamptonshire, while radio adverts have been aired on Heart Northamptonshire - each advert being aimed at attracting potential volunteers to join the youth organisation where they live.

Colonel Phil Watson, commandant of Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland (LNR) ACF, said: “Volunteering can have a positive impact on many lives. As an adult you can learn new skills, develop your confidence, gain qualifications, meet new people and increase your managerial abilities.

“Adult volunteers also have the ability to have a positive impact on our cadets by providing a disciplined training programme and encouraging individuals to try new sports or take on new responsibilities.”

He added: “In the last year, a number of cadets took part in our annual camp at Sennybridge Training Area in Powys, Wales, as well as taking part in a battlefield tour overseas, and representing LNR ACF at King Richard III’s re-interment event. The opportunities are endless for committed individuals who want to put their free time to a positive use.”

Anyone over the age of 18 who is enthusiastic about learning new skills and keen to build on their leadership abilities and organise a range of indoor and outdoor activities is encouraged to apply.

No particular experience is needed as full training will be provided.

The usual age for retirement of volunteers is 60.

Across the UK, there are 9,500 adult volunteers training in more than 1,600 locations with each inspiring and leading young people to achieve their goals.

The ACF’s training in specialist subjects can lead to fully-accredited qualifications through organisations like St John Ambulance, the British Canoe Union, Mountain Leader Training England, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, the National Rifle Association and the Piping and Drumming Qualifications Board.

Some of the ACF’s activities for young people have a military theme, while others have more of a community focus - but they all inspire young people to challenge their limits, become more independent and confident and able to step up to any challenge.

Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering for the ACF in Northamptonshire can call 0116 277 9701 or go online at www.armycadets.com/moretolife