British Transport Police Cadets (13-15 Years )

We cannot accept people straight off the street please make sure you request an appointment before attending.

Why should I become a British Transport Police cadet?

If you want to help improve your local community, have an interest in finding out more about how the police work, or the law, British Transport Police (BTP) Volunteer Police Cadet (VPC) scheme is for you. We also offer awards and qualifications such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and opportunities to get involved in youth social action both on a national and international basis.

Who can become a BTP volunteer police cadet?

The BTP Volunteer Police Cadets is for young people between 13 and 17 years old. At 18 you are eligible to become a Cadet Leader. You will also have access to other volunteering opportunities to support your local community.

How do I apply to become a BTP volunteer police cadet?

Please complete our application form and email it to cadets@btp.pnn.police.uk

Please note we are currently recruiting for cadets in the London area only.

Is it only for people that want a career with British Transport Police?

No. This is a common misconception about the Police Cadets. The VPC has the aim of developing a practical understanding of policing amongst young people which obviously attracts young people who have an interest in this area. However, young people join us for many different reasons many just to be able to work in their communities, or gain awards and qualifications.

Will it help me join British Transport Police?

BTP Volunteer Police Cadets is not a direct entrance scheme into the police service. The cadets will, however, give you an insight into policing, build your employability skills and will help you to make informed career choices.

Can I still join if I have been in trouble with the police?

Yes, depending on the seriousness of the trouble you have been in. We try to provide an all-inclusive programme and will support young people who want to make a change. If you have made a decision that you want to choose a different path we will do everything we can to support you. We obviously have a duty of care to the other young people we work with and our leaders. As representatives of BTP we also need young people who represent our values.

Will I get a uniform?

Yes, BTP Volunteer Police Cadets is a uniformed youth group and the uniform is part of our identity as part of the extended policing family.

Where are cadets held?

Cadet meetings in London will be held at our British Transport Police training school near Highbury and Islington train station.

The West Midlands cadets meet at the Safer Travel Command Centre in Birmingham.

How much does it cost?

In Birmingham there is a subscription of £1 per week for the cadets which is reinvested into the cadets for social activities and trips. At present there are no plans to charge subscriptions for attendance at cadets in London.

How often do I have to attend?

We will meet every week and in term time it is expected that you will attend as many sessions as you can. Education will always come first, however there is an expectation that all members of the organisation will volunteer for a minimum of 3 hours per month, on average, outside of weekly meetings.

What kind of volunteering will we do?

The BTP Volunteer Police Cadets take part in many and varied volunteering events, from local community based activities to occasions with a national and even international audience. Some activities that you will expect to be involved in include;

• Independent Advisory Groups – advising police on youth issues and concerns
• Crime prevention stands – informing the community of simple ways to say safe
• Marching in / route lining for local parades (i.e. remembrance events)
• Stewarding local events such as award ceremonies
• Assisting in the provision of activities for special needs children
• Community gardening
• Age related test purchasing with local Trading Standards teams on railway     premises
• Crime surveys – assisting police with large scale questionnaires
• Low level patrol on the railway network
• Training of police officers as role players in scenarios

How do I get to events?

We will do all that we can to support you in getting to events including travel arrangements but you will have to take some personal responsibility and be motivated to get to activities.

What is expected of me?

BTP is a disciplined uniform service and you will be expected to behave accordingly showing respect for others and acting with honesty and integrity.

I’m over 18. What else can I do?

Once you are 18 you can volunteer as a Cadet Leader or apply for other volunteering roles, including the Special Constabulary. For details of this visit the careers sectionof the BTP  website.

For any further details please contact   cadets@btp.pnn.police.uk.