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The University of Southampton
Geography and Environmental Science

A positive force

Published: 10 September 2012

Research led by Professor Graham Moon from Geography and Environment, in partnership with the University of Portsmouth, has been making an impact in government.

The research showed how membership of cadet forces can play a positive role in young people’s lives and benefit local communities.

Since the publication of the research the government has announced the expansion of cadet forces by inviting Secondary state schools across England to take part in a £10.85m scheme launched to coincide with Armed Forces Day to encourage young people to join the Cadet Forces.

In many of the statements released by government the research Geography and Environment undertook was highlighted. See:

The work also informed and was cited in the MoD Youth Engagement Review where it was described as “Compelling evidence on the value of cadets to both young people and to the adult volunteers”. See full report and appendices via http://armycadets.com/media-centre/news/youth-engagement-review-published/


The research, which was commissioned by the Council for Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations (CRFCA), gathered existing knowledge about the impact of the cadet forces on individuals and society. It also conducted a survey of cadets, the adult volunteers who run cadet forces and teachers in schools that host cadet groups.

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