How much does it cost?

 

There is an initial joining fee of £15. This covers the cost of your ‘green book’ which contains your training records and achievements (which is also your ACF identity card); the cost of the badges for your uniform and all of the other badges you will earn throughout your time with us.

 

At some detachments there is also a weekly detachment subscription of about 50p. This goes towards detachment funds to pay for local equipment, provisions for your local cadet canteen and social events for cadets at the detachment.

 

Do I have to wear a uniform?

Yes all cadets and adult instructors wear uniform. This is loaned free of charge to you for as long as you are with us. The only thing you will need to buy is a suitable pair of military type boots to go with it. When you leave you must hand in all uniform items that have been loaned to you.

 

Do I have to buy any equipment?

The only equipment you will need to buy is a sleeping bag, we recommend a good 3 season one. All other equipment is supplied on loan free of charge. Some cadets do decide to buy other items of personal equipment and your Detachment Commander will be able to advise you on where to get good some good deals.

 

Who will be looking after me?

ACF adult leaders are all volunteers trained by the regular army and the army cadet force especially to look after young people. They are men and women from all walks of life in your local community who give their spare time to help develop young people to achieve their best. Many have been cadets themselves and some may have been in the armed forces. They have all been carefully selected, had their background and reliability checked by the Ministry of Defence, and are trained and qualified to supervise and instruct Cadets.

 

Do I have to join the armed services afterwards?

NO. Some cadets go on to join the armed services but many chose not to. The ACF is a voluntary national youth organisation sponsored and supported by the army because basic levels of military training, together with fun and adventure in a safe learning environment, is a good way of developing a person.

 

 When Can I leave the ACF?

At anytime you want to - there are no restrictions as to how long you have to be a member. All that we ask for is that your uniform and any other kit that you may have borrowed to be returned to us as soon as possible to enable other new cadets.