Litter picking, clearing beaches, washing cars and packing supermarket bags have all been undertaken by Kent Police cadets as part of a social action project while on work experience with the force.

Between Monday, July 15 and Friday, July 19, the young volunteers worked hard to deliver community focused projects in the areas they serve.

During the week, 93 cadets worked among officers at police stations around Kent and received input from community volunteer groups like Speedwatch and specialist teams from across the force.

Some also had the opportunity to go on patrol duties, practise public order techniques and observe community Speedwatch schemes in action.

Chief Inspector Jason Wenlock, of the Citizens in Policing Team, set the cadets the challenge of developing a community project in their neighbourhood to benefit the area.

The teenagers coordinated a range of community spirited activities including a litter pick in Gravesend town centre and bag packing at a supermarket in Swanley.

"They all deserve the recognition they have received." - Cadet scheme ambassador Charlotte Evans

On Friday, the cadets were awarded with certificates for their efforts during the week.

Ambassador for the Cadet Scheme, Charlotte Evans, said: “The cadets have worked hard to deliver community focused projects to enhance the area they serve. They all deserve the recognition they have received.

“The cadets programme in Kent has been growing since its launch in 2016. We have already seen 14 cadets go onto join Kent Specials or become a regular officer. Recently a former cadet begun their new job as a Police Community Support Officer.

“Police cadets have been developed to encourage young people to positively interact with their communities and offer opportunities to people that they may not usually have.

“They gain valuable life skills and training as well as gaining an insight into the work of the police.”

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