The deputy mayor is urging people take on a new challenge in a bid to find 300 extra adult volunteers to support the army, air, sea, police and St John Ambulance cadet groups.

The call for adult volunteers is part of an initiative launched by the deputy mayor to establish a Veterans and Cadets Foundation which, once established, will support local veterans and award grants for young cadets who need financial support.

Currently the number of local cadets in the borough is below the national average because there is a significant shortage of adult volunteers. No qualifications or former military experience is required as full training is provided and volunteers also benefit from developing leadership skills.

Cllr Onnalee Cubitt is urging people take on a new challenge in a bid to find 300 extra adult volunteers to support the army, air, sea, police and St John Ambulance cadet groups.

Companies taking part will benefit as a result of employees developing their own skills such as leadership, team building and increased confidence. Volunteers will have the opportunity to gain vocational qualifications such as BTEC and City and Guilds. The Deputy Mayor is also urging companies to donate £1,000 to the foundation.

Cllr Cubitt said: “I believe the cadet movement provides huge benefits to young people by broadening their horizons, giving them great opportunities to develop their individual strengths and enabling them to learn important life skills. It would be amazing if we could find 300 extra adult volunteers and raise £300,000 for the new foundation. Becoming a volunteer will be a rewarding experience and a great way to give back to our wonderful local community."

“This can’t be done without the support of our residents and our local business community. I have been amazed at the support we have already received from local businesses and from all the local secondary schools. There will be a major school cadet event at Costello School on Thursday 26 March where our children can meet all five cadet groups to choose whether they want to join the army, air, sea, police or St John Ambulance. Please join me in taking part in this fantastic initiative. The children in our borough need you.”

Those wanting to get involved should contact mayor@basingstoke.gov.uk or call 07762 067 411.