Motherwell, Wishaw and Carluke MP Pamela Nash has backed a major expansion of the cadets in Lanarkshire as the Labour Government launches a new cadets campaign, backed with £70 million new funding.
Under a new ’30 by 30′ campaign, launched this week, Labour will expand cadet opportunities for a new generation of young people – boosting cadet forces by 30% by 2030.
Delivering on the Strategic Defence Review, this would see over 50,000 more cadets across the UK, supporting the Labour Government’s Plan for Change by breaking down barriers which are holding back Britain’s young people.
There are currently 10,075 cadets in Scotland – 7,115 in the community as Air, Sea and Army cadets, and 2,960 based in schools.
In a sign of how cadet forces can offer valuable STEM skills for young people, the RAF cadets will become the first youth organisation in Britain certified to train drone pilots, after receiving approval from the Civil Aviation Authority to deliver the industry-recognised ‘blue’ drone flying qualification.
The Labour Government has also launched the hunt to appoint a new National Cadet Champion to support and endorse the Cadet Forces and highlight the huge opportunities cadets can offer to young people from all backgrounds.
Pamela said: “I had the pleasure of meeting some of our local cadets recently at an event at the Motherwell United Services Club, and it was wonderful to see the young people in action and enjoying their role in the community.
“I am proud that this Labour Government is promoting the opportunities being a cadet brings, and doing all it can to encourage more young people to get involved and discover their own potential.”
Labour’s Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns MP, said: “Every young person deserves the chance to discover their potential, regardless of their postcode or family income.
“The cadet experience doesn’t just build character – it transforms futures, helping young people build confidence, develop skills and meet new people.
“Our Labour government is kickstarting a new era for the cadets through this major expansion, backed by £70 million of extra funding.”
Under the expansion, young people will have the chance to gain more qualifications, improve their confidence, and learn about the military.
The initiative, which delivers on the Strategic Defence Review, will prioritise cadets’ expansion across all four nations, ensuring every young person has the chance to discover their potential regardless of postcode or family income.
