Plans to modernise the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations (RFCAs) were announced today following a year-long review by the Ministry of Defence.
Since their inception in 1908, the RFCAs have played a vital role in connecting defence with the nation through 3 core strands: management of the Reserve and Cadet Estate; helping businesses support their Reservist employees; and providing administrative and logistical support to Cadets.
The review notes how the RFCAs go above and beyond and ensure that their roles remain relevant and significant in contributing to defence objectives, as well as building links in the community. In particular, the Cadet Expansion Programme, which has increased the number of cadets, and the Employer Recognition Scheme, which rewards employers for their support of Reservist employees are due to the work of the RFCAs.
In light of the review’s recommendations, defence will now embark on a cross-government programme with the RFCAs to develop the best way to regularise the 13 RFCAs to drive efficiencies and provide enhanced consistency across the regions for our armed forces.
The RFCAs remain a vital partner to defence, and the proposed reforms will provide the foundation to not only strengthen this relationship, but also enhance their role in communities across the UK. This will ensure our Reserves are best able to meet future capability needs and the Cadet experience continues to deliver for our young people.
image © Crown Copyright
If you would like to join our community and read more articles like this then please click here.
Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations RFCAs
Post written by: Matt Brown
RELATED ARTICLES
June 18, 2026
Homeland - Industry Bodies Sound Alarm Over Defence Investment Plan Delay and Spending Shortfall
Five of the UK’s leading defence trade associations have issued a rare joint statement warning that delays to the Defence
June 18, 2026
Land - £500m South Atlantic FM Contract Opens Market Engagement
The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has launched early market engagement on a major facilities management contract to support British Forces
