Cdt LCpl Lewis Butler
15-year-old Army Cadet Lewis Butler saved his 2-year-old brother Lyndon from choking using first aid skills learned in cadet training. He stayed calm and acted quickly, earning praise from all.
Keeping Cadets Safe: The Work of Our Medical Support Officers
At the Army Cadets, we are committed to the health and safety of our cadets, volunteers, and staff. Our Medical Support Officers (MSOs) play a vital role in this commitment by overseeing medical planning, supporting risk assessments, and the management of medical resources during cadet activities. Their responsibilities include:
- Supporting First Aiders to fulfil their role and managing uncertainty during more complex events
- Planning medical provision for camps and events.
- Supporting other volunteers and parents in developing medical management plans.
- Managing medicines and medical equipment.
- Ensuring compliance with Health and Safety Regulations by checking First Aider qualifications and ratios for each activity.
MSOs may have a background in healthcare or emergency services, which brings valued experience and insight into the cadet environment, but the Army Cadets provides full training up to a First Responder level to volunteer who may wish to undertake this role.
First Aid Training for Everyone
Cadets are taught how to look after themselves and others through structured first aid training. As they progress, through the syllabus they will learn life-saving skills as well as the management of illnesses and conditions which can lead to accredited qualifications.
Adult volunteers are also trained in Emergency First Aid at Work or First Aid at Work to ensure the Army Cadets is compliant with Health and Safety Regulations when delivering the provision of First Aid. This is to ensure all our cadets and volunteers are able to access immediate first aid treatment should they become injured or ill during cadet activity.
Some volunteers go on to undertake advanced training such as the Medical Support Training which advances their skills. Others may choose to go on to complete First Aid teaching qualifications, allowing them to train future cadets or volunteers in essential first aid skills.
Whilst cadets are never put in a duty of care position in respect of being nominated as a First Aiders on Army Cadet events, they along with their volunteers, often show their true community spirit by stepping forward to help those most in need.
Here are some examples of our truly remarkable cadets and volunteers who have used their skills learnt in the Army Cadets to help others.
Cdt Sergeant Major Amelie Poulton
Amelie helped a cyclist with a serious head injury, supporting him and his wife for nearly two hours. The wife called her “a real star” for her care and dedication.
Cdt Lainey Clark
Lainey Clark received the Royal Humane Society’s Commendation for helping perform CPR during a medical emergency in Leigh. She was praised for her calm, brave response and leadership.
Join the Army Cadets today!
Join the Army Cadets to embark on an exciting adventure, develop valuable skills, and build lifelong friendships for young people between 12 to 18.