British youth military program faces huge money problems - chiefs raise alarm
Historic UK youth-training program struggles with major budget reductions affecting thousands of young participants. Leaders warn about programs future in open-letter to government
The UKʼs Army Cadet Force‚ a long-running youth-development program faces serious issues after getting its money cut in half (the program gets about £26.4M for next year which is way less than what it got few years back)
The program which has been around since mid-1800s helps teens learn cool stuff like camping first-aid and community work. Right now it has 371 units working in British schools - with most of them being in regular public schools. But because of money problems‚ they cant do as many activities as before and lots of helperʼs are leaving
The Army Cadet Force has inspired and transformed the lives of countless young people providing essential life skills a foundation for their adult life and enhanced career prospects
Simon Banks-Cooper who leads the Humberside & South Yorkshire group says the program helps kids get better at life and work. The thing is - its not just about doing fun stuff; it makes real change in communities and helps government plans work better. Hereʼs what the program does:
- Teaches teamwork and discipline
- Helps kids learn job skills
- Makes it easier to join military careers
- Builds confidence and life-skills
Mark Francois shadow Armed Forces minister thinks these cuts dont make sense - especially since military needs more recruits these days. The Education dept also stopped giving its extra £1.1M that helped pay teachers in state schools
Defense ministry person says they care about these problems: “Were proud of cadets work and what they do for UK youth. We take these warningʼs very seriously and thank everyone for their help“
