Cowes RNLI is appealing for new volunteers to join its dedicated team and help save lives at sea, with training for new recruits set to begin this autumn.
The station currently has 52 volunteers providing 24-hour search and rescue coverage in the busy Solent.
New volunteers are first trained as shore crew, assisting with the launch and recovery of the lifeboat and responding to emergency callouts. No prior maritime experience is necessary, and all training and equipment is provided by the RNLI.
Once fully trained, shore crew members may have the opportunity to progress and join the afloat lifeboat crew.
Rachel Lambert, one of the youngest crew members at Cowes RNLI, began her training in January and qualified as shore crew 5 months later – all while studying for her A-Levels. She is now training to become boat crew.
Rachel Lambert, Volunteer Crew Member, has said:
“Volunteering with the RNLI in Cowes is an incredible experience. The crew here isn’t just a team, we’re a family. There’s a deep sense of trust, support, and shared purpose that makes being part of the station something to be deeply proud of.
Article continues below this advertisement “I’m currently training as boat crew, which is both a huge responsibility and a huge privilege. It’s exciting and full of new challenges. Every training session is a chance to learn something new that could one day help save a life. I personally know people who’ve been helped by the RNLI, so for me, this is also personal. I feel indebted to the charity and the volunteers who were there when it mattered most.
“I would recommend volunteering with the RNLI to anyone who wants to do something that truly matters. Whether on land or at sea, every role plays a vital part in saving lives.”
Mark Southwell, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Cowes RNLI, has said:
“Being pager-carrying operational lifeboat crew is about a simple commitment to train, qualify and maintain your skills. That commitment is not for everyone. It’s also rewarding and fun. If you think you can make a regular commitment all year round, you may well be for us.”
Applicants must be over 18 and live or work within 15 minutes of the Cowes RNLI Station.
To apply for the shore crew role, visit https://volunteering.rnli.org/vacancy/shore-crew—cowes-592664.html.
Cowes RNLI is also recruiting for a shop volunteer. Apply at https://volunteering.rnli.org/vacancy/shop-volunteer—cowes-582309.html.
