Knife Crime Fighters and Youth Cadets Take Centre Stage at Kent Awards!
Volunteer Police Cadets and Violence Reduction Unit Honoured
The Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) and the Ashford and Canterbury branches of the Volunteer Police Cadets were celebrated in style at the University of Kent on 1 September 2021. After a break last year due to the pandemic, former High Sheriff Paul Barrett handed out awards for the 2019/20 financial year.
Youth Cadets Recognised for Life-Changing Work
The Volunteer Police Cadets scored big for their solid training and support, especially for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Their Ashford and Canterbury members also received praise for taking part in the High Sheriff’s Justice Service at Canterbury Cathedral, an annual event blessing legal professionals for their work.
“It is an honour for our team and the cadets to receive such a prestigious award,” said Anne-Marie Moore, manager of the Volunteer Police Cadets. “Many of the youths we work with face hardship, but positive community involvement boosts their confidence to aim high and succeed. This award is something they should all be very proud of.”
Knife Crime Awareness Efforts Win Big
Kent Police’s Violence Reduction Unit also grabbed an award for its hard-hitting work raising awareness about the dangers of carrying knives. Earlier this year, the VRU ran an art competition encouraging schoolchildren to speak out against weapons, attracting nearly 100 entries from across Kent.
Detective Chief Inspector Ben Loose, VRU manager, said: “Our goal is to tackle the root causes of violent crime and support those affected. We’re thrilled the art competition was such a hit and proud to receive this High Sheriff Award. While knife crime rates in Kent are fairly low compared to elsewhere, educating young people remains vital to keeping our communities safe.”
High Sheriff Awards Back Community Heroes
The annual High Sheriff Awards, organised by the Kent Community Foundation, roll out grants to charities and voluntary groups supporting vulnerable, isolated, or disadvantaged locals.
