October 08, 2026 - 239 views
Young people involved with North Wales Police Cadets have been praised for the contribution they are making to communities across the region.
The Police and Crime Commissioner for North Wales, Andy Dunbobbin, joined cadets at North Wales Police Headquarters in Colwyn Bay during National Cadet Week, which runs from October 5 to 11.
The week is highlighting the opportunities available through cadet organisations and the contribution young people make through volunteering, community activities and public service.
During his visit, cadets from the Central Division spoke about some of the activities they have coming up, including helping with local Poppy Appeal collections and taking part in Remembrance Day parades in Caernarfon and Llandudno in November.
They also took part in a quiz testing their knowledge of policing and community safety.
For the young people involved, the programme is about much more than learning about policing.
North Wales Police Cadets, for those aged between 13 and 18, gives members the opportunity to build confidence, learn new skills and get involved in projects supporting their local communities.
Activities include volunteering at community events, personal development sessions, first aid training and learning more about policing and public safety.
The Central Division covers Conwy and Denbighshire, while cadets from Flintshire and Wrexham are part of the Eastern Division and meet at North Wales Police's divisional headquarters in Llay.
Among those taking part is 14-year-old James from Colwyn Bay, who has recently joined the programme.
He said being a cadet had helped him meet new people and experience things he otherwise might not have done, while also giving him an insight into what it is like to be a police officer.
For 15-year-old Dylan from Bangor, the programme is helping him work towards a future ambition of becoming a police officer and dog handler.
The cadets also have opportunities to take on additional responsibilities within their communities.
Holly, 16, from St Asaph, is one of this year's High Sheriff's Cadets. The role involves supporting the High Sheriffs of the preserved counties of Clwyd and Gwynedd at community events and activities.
She said she particularly valued the opportunity to engage with members of the public and develop her confidence in speaking to people.
The other High Sheriff's Cadet this year is 17-year-old Maisy from Colwyn Bay, who has been involved with the cadets for four-and-a-half years.
She said the programme gave young people the chance to support the public at events and help raise awareness of issues including County Lines and crime prevention.
The cadets are supported by volunteer leaders, who give their time to organise activities and help members develop their skills.
North Wales Police Cadet Coordinator Andrew Harris said the programme gave young people an insight into British policing while helping them contribute to their communities.
He said the skills developed through the scheme could benefit cadets both in their personal lives and when they move into employment.
Mr Dunbobbin said he was impressed by the enthusiasm and commitment of the young people he met in Colwyn Bay.
He also paid tribute to the volunteers and staff who support the programme.
National Cadet Week is being used to showcase opportunities available through cadet organisations and highlight the contribution they make to young people and communities.
For North Wales, that includes young volunteers helping at local events, supporting community safety initiatives and playing a visible role at occasions such as Remembrance parades.
Anyone interested in finding out more about becoming a North Wales Police Cadet can find information through North Wales Police.
