The briefing

News from across Army Cadets

A thrilling jump from 3,500 feet

There was an exciting opportunity for nine cadets and four adult volunteers from 2nd (NI) Bn ACF to take part in a static-line parachute course and 3,500 feet jump at Netheravon. The five-day course included training carried out by the Army Parachute Team and a chance to meet the Red Devils parachute display team. The adrenaline-fuelled event counted as 4-Star AT of the cadet syllabus. 'I was filled with such joy and sense of achievement as I had completed something amazing, potentially a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,' said

Cdt Sgt Charley Hamilton. 'I am forever grateful for the opportunities I have been given and continue to receive from the ACF, and I hope many more cadets get this opportunity too someday.'

Gina's big challenge for ACCT UK

Gina Allsop, Sports Officer and Adventure Training Officer for Sussex ACF, completed her biggest challenge to date in May with an epic unsupported mission.

Gina started her solo adventure by heading to Glasgow and joining the Kilt Walk. She then trekked the West Highland Way, before jumping in a boat at Fort William and paddling the Great Glen to Inverness (thanks to 51 Bde for storing her kayak). From there, she cycled back to Fort William. Throughout this amazing challenge she wild camped and carried all her food, raising money for ACCT UK, SSAFA and Sporting Force in the process. Well done Gina!

Cadets hone winter skills in Norway

With the help of ACCT UK, Berkshire ACF sent 25 cadets and eight CFAVs to Norway earlier this year for its biennial exchange with the Norwegian Home Guard Youth. The tradition of exchange between the two youth organisations has been maintained for an impressive 31 years.

The life-changing trip had cadets completing adventurous tasks in harsh climatic conditions. Activities incorporated all the elements of winter skills training, including military crosscountry and downhill skiing, plus fieldcraft. There was also a military history and culture experience during a trip to Oscarsborg Fortress. The exchange will be reciprocated when Berkshire ACF take on hosting responsibilities in summer 2024.

'It was the best thing I have done in the Cadets. The challenge pushed me to my limits,' said Cdt RSM Dan Wakelin from 11Pl Arborfield, while Cdt Cpl Mia Lambert said: 'I made great friends and did things I never thought I would do; it was absolutely amazing.'

Walking for veterans

March in March, a ten-mile walking challenge in aid of Combat Stress, saw 67 individual cadets and nine regional teams put their best foot forward for charity. All money raised went towards the life-saving treatment the charity provides for veterans with severe mental health issues. At the time of publishing, the teams had raised over £4,800. Well done to everyone involved.

Mental health matters

ACCT UK Cadet Challenge 2023

Mental health support

If you are interested in Army Cadets Healthy Minds awareness training, please contact your county to discover courses in your area. To deliver a Healthy Minds course in your area, attend one of the ‘train the trainer’ national courses and bid via Westminster. Upcoming dates:

29 October–3 November 2023 (WM Code 23/916048)

14–19 January 2024 (WM code 24/916086)

For urgent support, cadets can text SHOUT to 85258. Shout provides free 24/7 text support for young people experiencing a mental health crisis.

Adult volunteers can call Samaritans any time on 116 123. CFAVs also have access to the ACCT UK funded Care First System, which has an anonymous 24/7 support line: 0800 174319. They can also visit the wellbeing portal to find help and support. Contact your County for the login details.

Click here or scan the QR code to find out more about Army Cadets Healthy Minds.