Inclusivity in Action at Collyhurst

Bringing Young People Together Through Shared Experiences 

Based in North Manchester, Collyhurst Detachment serves a community rich in different cultures, backgrounds and lived experiences. This diversity is reflected within the detachment itself, where cadets from a wide range of ethnic, cultural and social backgrounds come together each week to learn new skills, build confidence and develop lasting friendships. 

A recent photograph taken during a company weekend camp highlights this spirit perfectly. The weekend was focused on Skill at Arms and shooting training, giving cadets the opportunity to develop their understanding of weapon handling, safety, marksmanship principles and range practices. For many of those attending, it was a chance to improve existing skills, gain valuable experience and challenge themselves in a supportive environment. 

While the primary purpose of the weekend was training, the image captures something equally important: the strength that comes from an inclusive and welcoming cadet environment. Looking across the photograph, cadets and adult volunteers from different backgrounds stand together as one team, united by shared experiences, mutual respect and common goals. It is a powerful reflection that, regardless of background, every individual has a place within the Army Cadets.  

Inclusion as Part of Everyday Cadet Life 

At Collyhurst Detachment, inclusion is not viewed as a separate initiative or occasional activity. It is embedded in everyday cadet life. Every young person is encouraged to participate, contribute, and achieve their full potential, regardless of their background, ethnicity, faith, gender, or personal circumstances. The detachment works hard to ensure that all cadets feel welcomed, respected and valued from the moment they join. 

The Army Cadets provides opportunities that many young people may not otherwise encounter. Through activities such as fieldcraft, leadership, প্রাথমিক চিকিৎসা, adventure training and shooting, cadets develop practical skills while building confidence, resilience and self-discipline. Just as importantly, they learn the value of teamwork, mutual respect and understanding through working alongside people whose experiences may differ from their own. These shared experiences help break down barriers, challenge stereotypes and build lifelong friendships. For many, the Army Cadets is one of the few places where they regularly interact with young people from a wide range of backgrounds.  

WO2 C Graham of Collyhurst Detachment said: “One of the things I am most proud of is seeing young people from different backgrounds come together and support one another. The photograph captures exactly what our detachment is about. The weekend was focused on Skill at Arms and shooting training, but it also highlighted the friendships, teamwork and sense of belonging that make the Army Cadets such a positive experience for our young people.” 

Supporting the Army Cadet Multicultural Network 

The success of Collyhurst Detachment reflects the Army Cadets’ wider commitment to creating an environment where every young person feels valued, respected and able to achieve their full potential. The Army Cadets Multicultural Network (Diversity and Inclusion) plays an important role by promoting inclusion, encouraging cultural understanding and ensuring that cadets and adult volunteers from all backgrounds feel seen, supported and represented. 

Through education, engagement and the sharing of lived experiences, the network seeks to improve greater understanding across the organisation, while celebrating the rich diversity that exists within our communities. By celebrating different backgrounds and experiences, the network helps strengthen the Army Cadet community and reinforces the values of respect, opportunity and teamwork. Collyhurst Detachment is an excellent example of these principles in action, demonstrating how diversity enriches the cadet experience and contributes to a stronger, more inclusive organisation. The friendships, teamwork and sense of belonging demonstrated by its cadets show how diversity can be a source of strength, enriching the cadet experience and creating an environment where everyone can succeed. As the Army Cadets continues to grow and evolve, detachments such as Collyhurst highlight the positive impact of bringing young people together from different backgrounds to learn, develop and achieve as one team