Who we are looking for
You do not need to have a policing background to become a cadet leader. We encourage applications from those from non-policing backgrounds.
To qualify you must be able to answer 'yes' to the following statements:
- I hold a UK passport or am a British Citizen, member of the EC or other states in the European Economic Area. If you are a Commonwealth Citizen or a foreign national, you must be resident in the UK free from restrictions and with indefinite leave to remain in the UK
- I have lived in the UK continuously for the last three years. This does not apply to those serving abroad with the British Armed Forces
- I am 18 years old or older at the point of application. There is no upper age limit
Before anyone joins Kent Police including volunteers and contractors, we undertake vetting checks to identify and assess any risks. This includes criminal record and credit reference checks.
We will ask you to complete a detailed vetting form which asks for details of your family members (parents, partner, children and siblings) and any criminal associates. You must let anyone whose details you have provided know that they will be investigated as part of your checks. We are unable to disclose the results of enquiries on third parties.
Criminal convictions and cautions
Ideally, you should not have a criminal conviction or cautions record. If you do have one, eligibility will depend on the age and nature of the offence. We are unable to confirm if your convictions record will affect your application before you apply. If you do not tell us about any cautions, investigations or criminal convictions, your application could be refused. If in any doubt, disclose the information.
Financial information
We will ask you for financial information including outstanding debts and CCJs and we will run a credit reference check on you. Please do not apply for the role of cadet leader if you:
- have existing county court judgments (CCJs) outstanding
- have been registered bankrupt and have not discharged your bankruptcy. You will not be considered until three years after the discharge of the debt. Debt Relief Orders (DRO) are treated in the same way as bankruptcy
- if you refuse to discuss a relevant matter or engage with the vetting process
as you will not qualify for vetting clearance.
Our volunteers have access to privileged and extremely sensitive information, which may make them vulnerable to corruption, so it is important for us to understand your financial situation.
For more information please view the vetting guidance.
No formal qualifications are needed, but you will need to meet all of the eligibility criteria.
You do not need to have a policing background to become a cadet leader. We welcome applications from those with non-policing backgrounds, but are looking for someone with the following qualities:
- a respect for race and diversity
- non-judgemental attitude
- commitment to confidentiality
- good listening and communication skills
- experience of supporting young people
- confidence, commitment, flexibility and enthusiasm
- ability to motivate others
- able to lead a team and maintain discipline
- good leadership skills
Previous experience of/qualifications in youth engagement work, outdoor skills, sports coaching or first aid would be an advantage although not essential as you will receive training to support you to develop your own knowledge and skillset.
There is no set amount of hours that you need to volunteer, but we do ask that you are able to support the programme for a minimum of one year and give up one evening a week to help deliver the program.
There may be a requirement to support the cadets at community engagement events over the occasional weekend.
Full training will be provided to help you develop your knowledge of Kent Police.
The training will also help you to develop your own knowledge and skill-set including a better understanding of British policing.
Kent Police is proud to serve the people who live, work and visit Kent. We aim to provide a high standard of service which everyone can use and is fair to all. We also provide a service which encourages positive attitudes and removes discrimination. Read more on Equality, diversity and inclusion at Kent Police.