Volunteering with the Army Cadets: Unlocking Skills, Confidence, and Making a Difference in the Community
Volunteers’ Week takes place from Monday 1 June until Sunday 7 June, celebrating the vital work volunteers do throughout the UK. Volunteering with the Army Cadets is more than just a commitment, it is a transformative journey that offers personal growth, professional development, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in young people’s lives. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your skill set, give back to your community, or embark on a new adventure, the Army Cadets provide a unique platform to achieve these goals.
Who Can Become a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer
Our Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, or CFAVs for short, come from a range of backgrounds – and no, you do not require previous military experience to join, although we welcome those who do. Anyone over the age of 18 can apply to join the Army Cadets as an adult volunteer. Typically, you will help at your local detachment one or two evenings per week and occasional weekends, as well as at our week long annual camps over the summer period.
Develop Transferable Skills and Gain Recognised Qualifications
As a CFAV , you’ll acquire a range of transferable skills that are highly valued in today’s job market. From leadership and communication to problem-solving and teamwork, these competencies are gained through hands-on experiences and structured training programs. The Army Cadets offer opportunities to earn nationally recognised qualifications, such as those provided by the Cadet Vocational College, which can bolster your CV and open doors to new career paths.
Enhance Confidence and Wellbeing
Engaging with Cadets and fellow volunteers fosters a sense of purpose and belonging. Many volunteers report increased self-confidence and reduced stress levels, attributing these benefits to the supportive community and the rewarding nature of their roles. The Army Cadet environment encourages personal development, helping you to grow both as an individual and a mentor.
Make a Tangible Impact on Young Lives
By volunteering with the Army Cadets, you play a pivotal role in shaping the futures of young people. Your guidance and support help cadets build resilience, discipline, and leadership skills that serve them well beyond their time in the program. Witnessing their growth and achievements is one of the most fulfilling aspects of volunteering.
Enjoy Adventure and New Experiences
The Army Cadets offer a range of activities that cater to diverse interests, including fieldcraft, first aid, navigation, and adventurous training. These experiences not only enrich your life but also enable you to share your passions with cadets, inspiring them to explore new horizons.
Join a Community of Like-Minded Individuals
Volunteering connects you with a network of individuals who share a commitment to youth development and community service. These relationships often lead to lasting friendships and a powerful sense of camaraderie, enriching your volunteer experience.
How To Apply to Volunteer with the Army Cadets
Once you complete the joining form on our website, a representative from your local HQ will then be in touch. We have 1500 detachments across the UK, organised into 54 county groupings, each managed by a small headquarters. You will normally be invited to the county HQ for an interview. If you decide to proceed, you will undergo our familiarisation and assessment package over the next few weeks, which is designed to give you a proper insight into the organisation and the role of an adult volunteer. During this time, we will also assess your suitability to serve in a voluntary youth organisation
Ready to Make a Difference?
Consider joining the Army Cadets as a volunteer. Discover more about the benefits and how to get involved by visiting our Benefits of Volunteering page.