Young people from some of Glasgow’s most challenged communities are gaining confidence, leadership skills and life-changing opportunities through transformational, military-style training programmes at The E Troop Royal Signals Army Cadet Force, Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion (ACF).
The ACF works with young people aged 12 to 18 from areas including Maryhill, Milton, Possilpark and Springburn, often covering costs for families facing financial difficulties to provide opportunities that many would otherwise not have access to.
Cadets are trained in leadership skills and learn to work as a team within a military structure, building their confidence through activities such as fieldcraft, map reading, first aid and physical fitness. They have the opportunity to participate in community service, competitions and the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, as well as gain nationally recognised qualifications and take part in international sporting events.
Despite all the trappings and structure of a military branch, the ACF is not an Armed Forces recruitment organisation. Instead, its focus is on developing discipline and life skills, in a fun and challenging environment, for young people whose communities may be underserved when it comes to youth provision.
Unfortunately, as with many charitable organisations, the current economic climate has affected ACF’s operational readiness, as budget cuts of 50.4% have stripped away funding for training materials, sporting equipment, boots and camping gear.
“At detachment level we no longer receive any funding to support us with training materials, equipment for sporting activities or assisting in purchasing items such as boots and camping equipment for those cadets whose families aren’t in a position to purchase for their children,” explains Shaun Keaney, Detachment Instructor at ACF.
Allied Vehicles Group, through the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, has donated £250 to the ACF to help them continue to provide their training programmes.
Thanking Allied for the donation, Mr. Keaney said, “We are so grateful for the donation which will go towards providing kit for a few of the cadets we have coming through the door.
“Our detachment covers the most deprived areas in the North West of Glasgow. As such we aim to break down social barriers and promote an inclusive environment open to all, no matter their background. This donation will help us just that little bit more to give our young people a chance to grow, learn and most of all have fun.”
Diarmid McBride, People & Compliance Director at Allied Vehicles, said, “We have a strong history of supporting our armed forces and veterans at Allied Vehicles, and received the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award last year.
“We’re delighted to extend that support to the Glasgow & Lanarkshire ACF so that they can, in turn, keep supporting young people in our community.”
