The National VPC team have been working with police forces to introduce a set of minimum standards across all VPC schemes which will ensure that cadets and leaders can operate in a safe environment.
The VPC is policing's uniformed youth group and police forces must operate their VPC schemes in line with youth sector standards.
The National Police Chiefs Council agreed to the use of the standards outlined in the UK Youth Safe Spaces Framework - and these are now being introduced.
Although each Police Force operates its VPC scheme independently, it is important that all adhere to one set of standards.
Over the next months police force will be able benchmark where they are against these standards and where necessary take remedial action, or highlight good practice which can be shared with other police forces.
Once implemented Police Forces will be subject to assessment to ensure they meet and continue to meet the required standard.
A guide as been produced for Police Forces which shows the 7 standards, and guidance on how to achieve them. The guide can be accessed HERE