Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde celebrated the first-ever National Cadets Week (5–11 October 2026) by championing the positive impact of cadet forces during a session in the House of Commons.
Key Details of the Address
- National Recognition: Babarinde highlighted the 137,000 young people across the UK who participate in the Cadet Forces, alongside the 28,000 adult volunteers who dedicate their time to support them.
- Local Tribute: He specifically praised the Sea Cadets, Marine Cadets, Army Cadets, Air Cadets, and Combined Cadet Force active across Eastbourne, emphasizing how they help local youth build vital life skills like confidence, discipline, teamwork, and leadership.
- Future Growth: The MP raised the importance of supporting these organisations directly with the Minister, noting the Government's National Cadet Forces Action Plan, which aims for a 30% sustainable growth by 2035 to create over 40,000 additional cadet places.
The inaugural awareness week, sponsored by the Ministry of Defence, is designed to deepen the bond between the Armed Forces and local communities while actively recruiting new youth members and adult volunteers
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