Become an Adult Volunteer

Are you searching for something new to do in your spare time? A hobby that will take you out of your comfort zone and lead to new adventures and lifelong memories?

Perhaps you are looking for that sense of belonging and want to give back to your community and help change lives?

Maybe you are looking to build confidence and gain new skills and qualifications in areas such as leadership, first aid, or specialist subjects, such as rifle shooting?

If the above applies to you, then you should consider volunteering with the Cadet Forces. 

The Sea Cadets, school-based Combined Cadet Force, Army Cadets and RAF Air Cadets are youth clubs that provide young people with challenging, military-themed activities (fieldcraft, navigation, drill, sailing, flying, camping…) that develop life skills, confidence and a deep-rooted sense of community.

While sponsored by the Ministry of Defence and based on the military’s values and standards, the Cadet Forces are not part of the Armed Forces.

Volunteers – known as Cadet Force Adult Volunteers – are the backbone of the Cadet movement. Without them, there would be no life-changing Cadet experience.

No prior experience is required to join, only a commitment to supporting young people (from as little as a few hours a week) and a willingness to learn.

If you have any questions or want to begin your journey today, please visit the links below or use our unit finder to contact your local Cadet Force.

You can also see what an average day as a Cadet Volunteer looks like by watching this short video.

Find your nearest Cadet Detachment

In the East Midlands, there are well over 200 Cadet units spread right across cities, towns and villages near you.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Sir Toby Dennis, is shown around Bourne Detachment's new Army Cadet Centre.

Sea Cadets

Sea Cadets is a national youth charity, offering a different kind of adventure for 10 to 18-year-olds, helping them to launch well in life today.

Find out more

Army Cadets

Try something truly extraordinary with the Army Cadets, one of the UK’s leading youth organisations. Every year, thousands of young people and Adult Volunteers join the fun, friendship, action, and adventure

Find out more

RAF Air Cadets

Cadets have many opportunities, including UK and overseas camps, leadership courses, air experience flights and pilot training.

Find out more

Our latest news

“We want Derbyshire to become the UK’s most Forces-friendly county”

A business forum dedicated to supporting the Armed Forces Community has set out its ambition to help Derbyshire become the most Forces-friendly county for Reservists, Cadets and Veterans at its inaugural meeting.

Beckingham Cadet Training Centre scoops top sustainability prize at East Midlands property awards

Beckingham Cadet Training Centre, in Lincolnshire, has won further praise for its sustainability-led approach.

Kendrew calling: New Cadet Centre opens at Army Barracks in Rutland

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness, has officially opened the new Army Cadet Force (ACF) Detachment building at Kendrew Barracks.