Gateshead cadet scheme to be rolled out nationally

Cadets dealing with one of the scenarios during their night shift at intu Metrocentre.

A scheme at a North East shopping centre which gives police cadets the opportunity to experience a busy nightshift has been so successful that it is going to be rolled out nationally.

Intu Metrocentre has supported the North East police cadets for a number of years, including allowing them to spend a night at the centre and deal with a number of specially created “emergency” scenarios.

The North East scheme is run by Northumbria Police, giving young people over the age of 14 the opportunity to sign up for the four year project, which gives them a real insight into the work of the police.

The programme includes the night at intu Metrocentre where the young people are called out to deal with a number of “incidents”, from first aid emergencies to looking after victims of crime, throughout the shift.

The relationship between the cadets and intu Metrocentre – which has also given them financial support – has led to a number of successes:

  • Cadets in Northumberland and Gateshead groups are to receive High Sheriff Awards for work in their communities.

  • Two cadets have been shortlisted for Northumbria Police Excellence Awards - Outstanding Volunteer.

  • A cadet has also been short listed for a national St John's Ambulance Award in recognition of them giving first aid to a victim of assault who had sustained a head injury.

  • One cadet has received a Chief Officers’ Commendation after volunteering for 400 hours.

The scheme is aimed at improving life skills to gain employment with 18 cadets completing their Duke of Edinburgh Awards with the help of the scheme.