News
December 17th 2018
All we want for Christmas are volunteers
Cadets during the Remembrance Parade in Brackley earlier this year
Sea Cadets from Brackley are desperate for adult volunteers or the group may face closure in the New Year.
Training Ship Tidespring based in Brackley opened in 2015 and has since become one of the town’s most popular youth organisations but are struggling to find volunteers to help run the unit.
When asked how he would feel if the unit closed, Leading Junior Cadet Robert Knight, aged 11, said: “I’d be really sad, it would be like something was missing. I really enjoy going and would miss learning about new things and all the fun stuff too.”
Cadets at the Historic Dockyard in Bristol
Since opening, the Sea Cadets have provided a wide variety of opportunities and experiences for the young people of Brackley, cadets are able to complete their Duke of Edinburgh Awards, learn about teamwork and leadership as well as being able to complete water sports qualifications.
Robert added: “My favourite thing is kayaking, it’s really fun to get out on the water. I also went on Junior Summer Camp which was the best week ever, I didn’t even miss home.”
Lieutenant Chris Read, the Commanding Officer of Northampton Sea Cadets who is currently supporting the Brackley unit, explained: “Without more adult volunteers the unit is set to struggle and possibly close in 2019, which is a real shame because the Sea Cadet experience helps equip young people with the skills and experiences they need to be successful in adult life.
“All that is required is a commitment to get stuck in, a willingness to learn and a desire to make a positive difference in young people’s lives. No experience is required as all necessary training will be provided by the organisation. There are also a lot of great opportunities for personal development in the Sea Cadets.”
Adult volunteers are able to complete nationally recognised courses in leadership and management as well as becoming a qualified instructor in activities like yachting and kayaking.
Brackley Sea Cadets meet every Friday at their headquarters in the town from 7pm to 9pm.
To find out more about becoming a volunteer with the Sea Cadets email info@brackleyseacadets.org.uk or call 07955 896890.
The Sea Cadet Corps is a national charity that is funded by donations and supported by volunteers.
“I’d be really sad, it would be like something was missing. I really enjoy going and would miss learning about new things and all the fun stuff too.”
