Government pledges funding boost to expand cadet opportunities in Bury North

Sunday, 24 August 2025 12:10

By David Murphy

New initiative aims to open cadet forces to over 50,000 more young people by 2030

Young people in Bury North and across Greater Manchester are set to benefit from a nationwide £70 million investment to grow the UK’s cadet forces under the Government’s new ‘30 by 30’ campaign.

The campaign aims to increase participation in cadets by 30% by the end of the decade, giving tens of thousands more young people access to training and experiences that build confidence, discipline, and skills for life.

Among the qualifications on offer to cadets are cutting-edge STEM skills, such as drone piloting, and leadership development programmes that prepare them for future education and employment opportunities.

The announcement follows a recent visit to the Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force’s Holcombe Moor training centre, where local representatives witnessed the programme’s impact first-hand.

Cadets at Holcombe Moor take part in field exercises, adventure training, and team-building exercises, while developing skills in communication, public service, and resilience. Many also progress to national-level training camps and awards, such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and BTEC qualifications.

The funding commitment forms part of a wider government strategy to tackle regional inequality and improve access to youth opportunities. By focusing on underrepresented areas, including parts of Greater Manchester, the initiative aims to remove financial and logistical barriers that can prevent young people from joining cadet units.

Holcombe Moor, located on the outskirts of Bury, currently serves cadets from across Bury, Bolton, and Rochdale. Under the new plans, recruitment drives will be expanded, and more resources will be made available for training and outreach.