Are you a young person aged 13 – 17 who is interested in developing new skills, learning more about policing and making a positive contribution to your local community? If so, we invite you to apply to join the North Yorkshire Police Volunteer Police Cadets at our Harrogate unit.
We are now recruiting for our 2026 intake, with successful applicants joining the Harrogate police cadet unit in September 2026.
The Harrogate Volunteer Police Cadet unit meets on Monday evenings from 6pm to 8pm
Why join the Volunteer Police Cadets?
As a Volunteer Police Cadet, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop valuable personal and practical skills
- Support your local community through volunteering and social action projects
- Take part in engaging and enjoyable activities
- Build confidence and make new friendships
- Gain an insight into British policing
- Challenge yourself and grow through new experiences
What to Expect
Cadets meet once a week during term time on a weekday evening. There is an expectation that cadets will attend sessions regularly and participate in occasional additional activities and events, including evening and weekend volunteering.
Cadets are provided with a uniform and follow a structured programme covering policing, personal development, and basic law. Following initial training, cadets will take part in an attestation ceremony, enabling them to participate in approved activities beyond regular sessions.
Sessions may include physical activities, drill, and visits from a range of specialist departments, such as the Dog Section, Roads Policing, and Crime Scene Investigation teams.
How to apply
To apply, applicants must complete the online application form. Applications will be shortlisted, after which selected candidates will be invited to attend an interview, conducted either online or in person.
We welcome applications from young people of all backgrounds, regardless of social group, gender, ethnicity, ability or disability, and whether or not they have a prior interest in policing.
Online Familiarisation Event
An online familiarisation event will be held to provide further information and answer any questions:
- Wednesday 29th April 6-7pm
Further information
- Application deadline: 9.00am, Monday 11 May 2026
- Interviews: Week commencing 25 May 2026
If you have any questions then please get in touch with Gina Wright, Cadet Liaison Officer - gina.wright@northyorkshire.police.uk
