Volunteers’ Week Spotlight: Lt Gina Allsop

Taking on Challenges and Inspiring Others 

ਵਿੱਚ Cheshire & Isle of Man Army Cadet Force, volunteering is about far more than giving up your spare time. It is about inspiring young people, building confidence and encouraging others to achieve more than they thought possible. Few people embody that spirit better than Lt Gina Allsop. 

Based at County Headquarters in Cheshire, Lt Allsop recently completed an extraordinary fundraising challenge in support of the ਆਰਮੀ ਕੈਡੇਟ ਚੈਰੀਟੇਬਲ ਟਰੱਸਟ ਯੂ.ਕੇ. and other charities. Over the course of a single year, she walked, cycled and kayaked an incredible 5,200 miles. 

“The Army Cadets continually encourages cadets and adult volunteers to push themselves, take on challenges and strive for more,” she explains. “That culture of resilience and personal development inspired me to take on the 5,200-mile challenge. 

“Supporting ACCT UK was important to me because of the work they do in providing opportunities and life-changing experiences for young people. I’ve seen first-hand how impactful those opportunities can be.” 

Not one to stop there, Lt Allsop has now extended her efforts even further. Her new “Tri the World” challenge aims to cover 16,400 miles over three years – the equivalent of circumnavigating the world by land. 

“I hope it shows great things can be achieved just by stepping outside your front door,” she says. “To celebrate, I will finish the challenge with an ultra-marathon around my home county.” 

Why do you volunteer?  

I was a cadet myself in Merseyside ACF from the age of 13 and progressed through all the star levels. I eventually became a detachment commander as an adult instructor before joining the regular Army. Over that period, I experienced first-hand the positive impact the Army Cadets has on young people. The skills and confidence it builds stay with you into adulthood. I wanted to be part of helping the next generation achieve their full potential.  

What are the best bits?  

I have been a volunteer for 14 years and love all aspects of the Army Cadets, although my favourite subjects are ਫੀਲਡਕ੍ਰਾਫਟ ਅਤੇ ਸਾਹਸੀ ਸਿਖਲਾਈ. The most rewarding part is seeing cadets grow in confidence over time. Watching their progression is incredibly fulfilling.  

What other benefits have you experienced?  

Being part of the Army Cadets has given me a strong sense of community, similar to the camaraderie found in the military. It’s like having a close, trusted group of friends. On a personal level, I’ve also gained nationally recognised qualifications in adventurous training.  

My experience in the cadets also inspired me to take another step so I could have a greater impact on training and policy: in 2017, I attended Westbury and Initial Officer Training, which finished in Sandhurst. It was a huge privilege and a proud moment.  

How much time do you give to the Army Cadets?  

In my current county role, I parade once a week, but I’m often on call and involved in planning activities such as camps (as well as attending them). I’m also the national cadet representative on the committee for the MOD.  

What would you say to others considering volunteering?  

It’s an incredibly rewarding experience. You not only help shape young people’s futures but also continue to develop yourself. The sense of achievement, community and purpose you gain is unlike anything else.