Cowes RNLI volunteer Josh Matthews has achieved the highest role of inshore lifeboat command after successfully passing his final assessment to become the station’s newest helm.
Josh joined Cowes RNLI in 2020 and has progressed through several roles, including shore crew and boat crew, before qualifying as helm – a position carrying ultimate responsibility aboard an inshore lifeboat.
The helm is responsible for leading the crew during exercises and emergency call-outs, making critical decisions in challenging conditions and ensuring the safety of both crew members and casualties.
Josh Matthews has said:
“It has been a long journey and I am so proud to have qualified as helm today.
“Since I joined the RNLI six years ago, I have always enjoyed the opportunity to train and hone our skills at the highest standard.
“This achievement today is the culmination of many years of training involving the commitment of crew and shore crew alike.
“I am grateful to the RNLI for the training they have provided, and for the volunteers at Cowes RNLI Station and my family who have taken time to support me on this journey.
Article continues below this advertisement “I look forward to putting my skills to use, and to supporting others in their training, as well.”
Training to become a helm can take several years and involves multiple assessments carried out by professional RNLI assessors.
During his final assessment, Josh was tested on a range of skills including towing, navigation, boat handling, anchoring and man overboard procedures.
Josh now joins 5 existing helms operating at Cowes RNLI.
Mark Southwell, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Cowes RNLI, has said:
“We are very proud to have Josh join our team of capable helms in Cowes.
“Every time our lifeboat launches, whether on exercise or on a shout, the helm takes the enormous responsibility of the safety and wellbeing of their crew, their boat, and their casualties.
“All our crew members are volunteers and we are very grateful to those who take time out of their lives, work, families and free time to contribute to our mission.
“Josh’s time and his abilities will allow us to launch more often, train more, and be available to save lives at sea.”
Well done Josh! Congratulations.