The King has praised cadet forces across the country, saying the chance to develop “resilience, responsibility and a sense of purpose” in a “rapidly changing world” has never been more important.
In a message to mark the first ever National Cadets Week, Charles paid tribute to the five military Cadet Forces, as well as the National Fire Cadets, Volunteer Police Cadets and St John Ambulance Cadets.
Uniformed youth groups
The monarch, who is head of the armed forces, described how he had long been aware of the “benefit of uniformed youth groups” at encouraging self-discipline and self-confidence in the younger generation.
The Cadet Forces, involving more than 137,000 young people, are one of the largest youth movements in the UK.
King's message
The King said in his written message: “I am particularly delighted to send my warmest congratulations and best wishes to all cadets, adult volunteers, families and supporters of cadet services across the United Kingdom during this inaugural National Cadets Week.
“For many years I have recognized the benefit of uniformed youth groups in instilling a sense of self-discipline and self confidence in the younger generation that can only come from challenging team activity inherent within such organizations.”
Charles, who founded Youth United in 2009 to create a network of the nation’s leading uniformed youth organisations, said being a cadet was a way of helping young people discover their strengths and broaden their horizons.
Cadet Forces growth
“At a time when young people are growing up in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world, opportunities to develop resilience, responsibility and a sense of purpose have never been more important,” he said.
“The Cadet Forces provide exactly that. Through adventure, teamwork, leadership, service and personal challenge, they help young people realize their potential, whilst fostering the qualities that strengthen both individuals and society as a whole.”
The King added: “To every cadet, volunteer, family member, employer and supporter, I can only thank you for your example of duty and service.”
The monarch’s message coincided with the opening of a new Joint Cadet Centre in Hastings, East Sussex, on Monday, which was attended by veterans and people minister Calvin Bailey, who was himself an air cadet.
The Government has committed to growing the Cadet Forces by 10% by 2030 and 30% by 2035, backed by a new Cadet Partnership Hub.
The Cadet Forces, which are voluntary youth organisations sponsored by the Ministry of Defence that offer military-themed, adventurous, and community activities for young people aged 12 to 18, are made up of the Sea Cadet Corps, Volunteer Cadet Corps, Combined Cadet Force, Army Cadet Force, and Air Training Corps.
