What Is the Civilian Committee?

Every RAF Air Cadet squadron is supported by a Civilian Committee. A group of local volunteers who work behind the scenes to ensure the squadron can operate safely, legally, and sustainably.

At 2353 (Ystrad Mynach) Squadron, the Civilian Committee plays a vital role in enabling the cadets’ activities while allowing uniformed staff to focus on training, leadership, and safeguarding.

Why the Civilian Committee Exists

Although RAF Air Cadets is part of the Royal Air Force family, so we are partially funded and supported by the MOD and RAF.

The MOD provides:

• The RAF Air Cadets Framework and Syllabus

• Some Buildings and Maintenance

• Core Insurance and Governance

However, many things that directly benefit cadets are not funded, including:

• Modern IT, Broadband and Training Equipment

• STEM Resources and Classroom Technology

• Subsidies for Camps, Flying, Gliding, and Trips

• Some Transport Costs, Enrichment Activities, and Welfare Support

👉 This is where the Civilian Committee comes in.

Mission Statement

“2353 (Ystrad Mynach) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets, supported by its Civilian Committee as an excepted unincorporated charity registered with HMRC, exists to inspire and support young people across Ystrad Mynach and the surrounding communities at a formative time in their young lives. We are committed to helping every cadet discover their potential through positive challenge, encouragement, and opportunity.

Our mission is to provide a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where young people aged 12–17 can grow in confidence, learn to lead, and feel a strong sense of belonging. Through aviation education, STEM learning, outdoor activities, multi-layered camps, and meaningful community engagement amongst others, we work alongside the Officer Commanding and Volunteer Staff to offer cadets enriching experiences that broaden horizons, build resilience, and develop lifelong skills.

By investing in our Squadron, funders are investing directly in local young people: helping them develop self-discipline, ambitions, teamwork, and self-belief ultimately delivering their positive self-development. These experiences not only shape confident cadets, but also help nurture responsible, capable citizens who go on to make positive contributions to their communities and wider society.”

What the Civilian Committee Does at 2353 Squadron

The Civilian Committee exists to support the squadron and its cadets, not to run training or discipline.

Key Responsibilities

The committee:

• Manages the squadrons funds

• Oversees fundraising and grant applications

• Holds and protects donations and public funds

• Owns and safeguards equipment and assets

• Approves expenditure solely for the benefit of cadets

• Ensures good governance, transparency, and accountability

How the Civilian Committee Is Structured

Like most RAF Air Cadet squadrons, 2353 Squadron’s Civilian Committee is made up of volunteers from the local community.

Typical roles include:

• Chairperson – leads the committee and liaises with the Squadron Officer Commanding

• Treasurer – manages accounts, budgets, and financial reporting

• Secretary – records meetings and maintains governance documents

• Committee Members – support fundraising, decisions, and events

All roles are voluntary and unpaid.

How the Committee Works With the Squadron

The squadron and the Civilian Committee operate as two parallel but cooperative structures: