Police cadets raise over £1,100 to support Canterbury-based nursery

A nursery which helps children with special educational needs has been given a cash boost thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Kent Volunteer Police Cadets in Canterbury.

Staff at the Honey Bears Nursery at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital were presented with a cheque for £1,167 by the cadets on Wednesday 7 January 2019.

In November after learning about the good work of the nursery, the members initially set themselves a target of raising £200, but their dedication and determination to support the good cause saw them beat the target and raise over five times the amount.

The cadets took part in a cake sale at the end-of-year concert at Simon Langton Girls Grammar, a car wash at Canterbury Police Station and held a raffle at a village event in Petham. One of the cadets even had her head shaved to raise money.

The cash will be used to buy equipment for the nursery, which is based in the Children’s Assessment Centre and helps children with special educational needs, physical disabilities and a range of neuro-developmental conditions such as epilepsy and autism.

They offer intensive one-to-one therapy through play (including Physiotherapy, Occupational and Speech Therapy), as well as family support and guidance.

Jon Sutton from Kent Police, who leads the cadets, said: ‘Being part of the police cadets gives young people the opportunity to learn about policing but also about the importance of helping the community.

‘It’s heartening to see how committed the cadets have been in fundraising for the nursery. To be able to organise so many events in such a short period of time is no easy task, yet they have worked tirelessly to make a difference for those who need help.

‘I hope the money will be useful for the nursery in continuing their brilliant work with children and families.’

The Volunteer Police Cadets programme

The Volunteer Police Cadets programme provides an opportunity for young people aged 13-17 to get involved in activities which support community policing and learn about responsible citizenship.

The cadets receive training and take part in voluntary work with the police in their local community. It provides an opportunity to develop key life skills and enhance opportunities for further education, training and employment – whether this is within the police service or another profession.

Cadets meet weekly for two to three hours during term time and also volunteer a further three hours each month to help with a community-based project. Included in the training programme are drills, uniform care and maintenance, and sessions on the history and current set-up of the police.

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