TEENAGERS could be representing the law in Oxford as the city looks to become one of the first in the region to run a police cadets scheme.

Oxford is in line to act as a pilot for the volunteer scheme for Thames Valley Police, which would see young people given uniforms and the chance to represent the force.

Thames Valley Police hopes the scheme, which aims to better involve young people in their communities and policing, will be launched early next year.

Supt Christian Bunt, Oxford area commander, said he had agreed to run the scheme because it would offer Oxford teenagers a great opportunity to develop skills and gain an insight into what the police do.

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He said the cadets would be mentored by a cadet leader and would be able to represent the force at community events like Remembrance Sunday and summer fetes.

He said: “It will be good for the community.

“There will be extra uniforms on the street but the scheme is more for the young people rather than providing a resource for the police.

“This is about getting young people interested in policing and giving them some important life skills and hopefully attracting some of them to the police in the future.”

He said the cadets would be taught responsibility and how to deal with the public.

But he stressed that the young volunteers would not be put at risk.

The superintendent said the number of cadet places available was not yet clear.

Cadets in other forces are used for activities including graffiti cleaning, testing shops for underage alcohol and test cigarette purchases, leaflet drops, and royal events.

They are also taught about the law and first aid.

They will also be given training and chances to go on to volunteer as a Special Constable.

A police cadet was recently used by the Metropolitan Police in a reconstruction of the last known movements of 14-year-old Alice Gross, who went missing from her home in Hanwell, West London, in August.

Police have launched a murder inquiry after finding a body in the River Brent.

Cadets have to be at least 16 years old but if they are aged under 18 they will need written permission from a parent or guardian to apply.

The force is also looking to recruit cadet leaders to manage weekly meetings and support the cadets.

Volunteers would need to give up at least one evening a week. Anyone interested should email rosie.white@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk

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