First dedicated navigator for Littlehampton RNLI

The role of navigator is one of the most demanding in the RNLI. Navigators are tasked with getting to, or finding, a casualty as quickly and safely as possible – which often involves making decisions under pressure. They must also have extensive knowledge of local waters, coastal navigation, chart work, electronic systems and weather interruptions.

Bea lives in Littlehampton and has volunteered at Littlehampton RNLI for five years. She's also a training coordinator at the lifeboat station. To qualify as a navigator, she had to pass a demanding three-hour practical assessment at sea and a 56-question theory exam.

Bea said: “I’m so proud to be Littlehampton’s first dedicated navigator. I joined our crew with very little experience of the sea. So, after months of rigorous training, assessments and practical experience, by becoming a navigator I hope I’m paving the way for future generations of volunteers and demonstrating that lifesaving at sea is open to everyone. With courage, nothing is impossible.”

She added: “I couldn’t have done it without the support of all the volunteers at Littlehampton RNLI. They go above and beyond to not only save lives at sea, but to support each other so we can all achieve our goals.”

Nick White, Littlehampton RNLI’s Lifeboat Operations Manager, said: “Bea is a key member of our team. As crew and lifeboat training coordinator – and now as navigator – she makes a huge contribution to the success of our lifeboat station. We're all very proud of her achievement. The role of navigator is relatively new for the RNLI and was previously a responsibility of helms. All our helms are fully qualified navigators alongside their command responsibilities.”

ENDS

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Beth Brooks, Lifeboat Press Officer, Littlehampton RNLI 07544 209256, [email protected]

Jess Curtis, Regional Communications Manager, RNLI 07483 488243, [email protected]

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Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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