West Mercian Wing is powered entirely by volunteers. From running parade nights to managing our charitable funds, everything we do for young people relies on people giving their time.
Volunteer Instructor
Around 12 hours a month
Volunteer Instructors work directly with cadets, helping deliver activities such as aviation, leadership, adventure training and community events. You don’t need military experience – just enthusiasm for supporting young people.
- Around one evening a week (plus occasional activities)
- Work directly with young people aged 12–19
- Full training provided
- Uniformed and civilian roles available
- Based at your local squadron
- Minimum age of 20 years
Next steps
Trustee
Around 12 hours a year
Trustees don’t work directly with cadets. Instead, they support squadrons behind the scenes by managing finances, governance and fundraising – helping make sure each squadron has the equipment and opportunities they need.
- A few meetings per year
- No youth work involved
- Role includes finance, governance, fundraising and general support
- Ideal if you can’t commit weekly but still want to help locally
- Skills from business or community life are especially valuable
- Minimum age of 20 years
Next steps
What if I can’t commit regularly?
If you can’t commit to volunteering or becoming a trustee, you can still support local Air Cadets in other ways – from donating equipment to offering professional expertise.
What you don’t need
- You don’t need military experience
- You don’t need to be a parent or carer
- You don’t need specialist qualifications
- Training and support are provided
Why people join
- Give young people opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have
- Be part of your local community
- Learn new skills
- Make a real difference close to home