SECURITY FOR AIR CADETS - ADVICE TO CADETS &PARENTS
This short Q&A sheet seeks to answer some of the most frequently asked questions that arise from increases to the security threat and its implications for Air Cadet personnel.
Q. What is the security level?
A. The National Threat to the UK from international terrorism is monitored by MI5 and their assessment of the threat is published on their website MI5.Currently the threat is assessed as SEVERE (an attack is highly likely), which is the 4th level on a scale of 5. This level can change quickly depending on unfolding events. Overseas security advice can be obtained via the Foreign and Commonwealth website FCO.
Q. Are Air Cadets a target?
A. We are in constant dialogue with the Home Office and the Security Services regarding the threat to our personnel. At this time, although the overall threat is increased, we haven’t been advised of any specific threats to Air Cadets but, like any youth organisation, we should always seek to be vigilant.
Q. What is the threat to my child?
A. All uniformed personnel are at greater risk from international terrorism than an average member of the public simply by virtue of our position in society and the ability for the public to recognize us when in uniform. The distinction of who is a regular Airman, who is an adult volunteer and who is an Air Cadet will not be easily apparent to terrorists, especially when we are in uniform. Advice regarding the response to relevant specific threats is available at Run Hide Tell and supported through the citizen AID App.
Q. Is the threat the same everywhere in the UK?
A. The threat to our people will vary considerably across the UK, but despite this we should still be vigilant everywhere. Where a specific local threat is identified by the Police or Security Services you will be informed in writing by your National or Regional HQ or Squadron Commanding Officerwho will explain to you what additional security measures are being put in place and give you clear advice on what additional personal security measures we recommending.We carefully monitor the threat against Defence Personnel and consult regularly with national Security Agencies. Our judgment is that the threat to cadets remains relatively low; however, recent high profile events in Europe mean that public awareness and concerns are heightened.
Q. Can Air Cadets continue to wear uniform in public?
A. Air Cadets proudly wear the uniform of the Royal Air Force and this is an important part of our ethos. Where a cadet activity takes place in public,Command staff will undertake suitable risk assessment to ensure that it is sensible for the event to take place. Cadets will, at all times, be under the direct supervision of a responsible adult whilst conducting cadet activities in public.
Q. Should my child travel to Air Cadet activities in uniform?
A. There are no restrictions on traveling to and from cadet activities in uniform; however, you should consider carefully the local situation. Whilst travelling to and from a cadet activity responsibility for your child remains with you as a parent if they are under 18. You may wish to consider whether you would like your child to ‘cover up’ whilst travelling to their local Sqn (for example they may choose to wear a civilian jacket over their uniform and put their headdress in a pocket, or alternatively carry uniform to the cadet activity in a sports bag). We recommend that cadets do not travel on foot, cycle or public transport whilst in uniform and alone, especially in urban areas.
Q. Is there a risk from using social media?
A. There is always some risk associated with using social media; however, if your child takes sensible precautions, then using a range of social media sites should remain a perfectly safe activity. Good advice regarding management of social media accounts can be found at Child Safety Online. Care should be taken not to publish your home address or telephone number and cadets should avoid publishing the date and location of future activities. Otherwise the use of social media, including the publishing of pictures of your child in uniform, should be considered of minimal threat.
Q. What other precautions should I take?
A. Overall the key thing is to be vigilant. Take an interest in anyone at or near a cadet activity. Discuss the threat in a sensible manner with your child. They should not be afraid, but they should understand that they have a part to play in helping keep everyone safe. If you or your child sees anything suspicious they should report it to through their Air Cadet Chain of Command or directly to the police. If you are threatened, or feel threatened, dial 999 immediately and explain that you are an Air Cadet, or the parent of an Air Cadet.
Brian Parton
B PARTON
WO
ACO Sy Adv
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