Lincolnshire Cadets Empower Young People with Essential Life Skills

Over 13,000 cadets in the East Midlands are acquiring essential life skills through various cadet forces. Calvin Bailey MBE MP, the Minister for Veterans and People, recently visited the Army Cadets at Beckingham Training Camp and the RAF Air Cadets at RAF Waddington, in anticipation of the UK’s inaugural National Cadets Week.

The Army Cadets and RAF Air Cadets showcased a range of engaging activities, including drone flying, fieldcraft training, marksmanship, first aid, and innovative technology demonstrations. During the visits, the Minister interacted with cadets and volunteers from across the region, highlighting the significant role these forces play in youth development.

Government Investment in Cadet Forces

The government has pledged £70 million to support the sustainable expansion of cadet forces, aiming to boost participation by 30% by the year 2035. This commitment reflects a growing recognition of the positive impact that cadet participation can have on young people’s lives.

Research conducted by the University of Northampton has indicated that involvement in cadet programmes correlates with enhanced wellbeing, improved educational outcomes, and increased social mobility. It is estimated that cadets contribute approximately £120 million in wellbeing value each year, with participants exhibiting greater confidence, resilience, employability, and leadership abilities.

Hands-On Experience for the Minister

During his visit to Beckingham, the Minister actively participated in shooting activities and engaged in fieldcraft, first aid, and navigation exercises alongside the cadets. At RAF Waddington, he learned to navigate a drone circuit and experienced an immersive flight simulation. Additionally, he spoke with cadets and adult volunteers about their experiences and aspirations for National Cadets Week.

The visits highlighted the extensive reach of the cadet movement across the East Midlands, where approximately 13,000 Army Cadets benefit from the support of dedicated adult volunteers. This includes 714 cadets and 167 volunteers within the Lincolnshire Army Cadet Force alone.

Promoting Opportunities for Young People

Calvin Bailey MBE MP expressed his personal connection to the cadet experience, stating, “As a former Air Cadet, I know first-hand the difference cadets can make to a young person’s life. I learnt to fly a plane before I could drive a car, and gained the skills and confidence that shaped my future.”

He continued, “Today I’ve met cadets across Lincolnshire developing those same qualities: confidence, resilience, leadership, and teamwork. These are skills that will stay with them for life, whatever path they choose. I want more young people from all backgrounds to have access to the same opportunities and experiences that helped me.”

Strengthening Community Ties

Cadet forces serve as a vital link between the Defence sector and local communities, fostering closer connections between the Armed Forces, schools, employers, and families throughout Lincolnshire and the broader East Midlands.

Across the UK, approximately 28,000 adult volunteers dedicate their time to support the cadet forces, which comprise over 137,000 young people. In an era where youth disengagement is a pressing issue, cadets are equipping young individuals in Lincolnshire with the discipline and confidence necessary to thrive in their chosen paths.

Anticipation for National Cadets Week

The recent visits have generated enthusiasm in the lead-up to the UK’s first-ever National Cadets Week, scheduled for 5 to 11 October 2026. During this week, communities nationwide will be encouraged to celebrate the contributions of cadets and their volunteers, raise awareness of the opportunities available through cadet programmes, and inspire more young people and adults to participate.