Portsmouth joins first South East Women In SAR event
Seven crew members from Portsmouth RNLI were selected to attend the South East Women in Search and Rescue (SAR) Conference on Saturday 28 February, held at Shoreham-by-Sea.
The event brought together volunteers from lifeboat stations across the region to share experiences, develop skills and strengthen the network of women working in search and rescue.
Our Portsmouth attendees represented a wide range of operational roles within the station, including helms, navigators, experienced boat crew, new trainees, launch authorities and launch vehicle drivers. It was a valuable opportunity for our crew to connect with others in similar roles, exchange knowledge and learn from shared experiences both on and off the water.
The day began with a video message from Sarah Psaila, New Zealand Coastguard, offering an international perspective on women working within maritime search and rescue. The morning programme also included joint afloat exercises, with some crew members taking to the water alongside other South East stations, while others took part in shoreside activities and discussions.
The afternoon sessions focused on personal development, leadership and welfare. Talks included Developing leadership delivered by Susan Carroll, and Welfare and support for you and your crew presented by Jane Brophy. The day concluded with a panel discussion and Q&A session featuring South East women in command positions, chaired by Kitty Norman, providing insight into leadership pathways and shared challenges across stations.
Kim Dugan, Helm at Portsmouth RNLI, said: 'It was a brilliant opportunity to meet other women from across the South East who share the same commitment to saving lives at sea. We all come from different stations and backgrounds, but the common goal is the same. Events like this strengthen the network between crews and remind us of the depth of skill, experience and support we have within the RNLI.'
We’re incredibly proud of our crew for representing Portsmouth at this event and for the dedication they continue to show in serving our community at sea.
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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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
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