Since 1824 we’ve pioneered developments in lifesaving at sea. And our lifesavers have shown unfailing courage and selflessness.
Delve into our history
About us
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Powered primarily by kind donations, our search and rescue service has been saving lives for over 200 years.
We are a charity founded upon and driven by our values of selflessness, courage, dependability and trustworthiness, with volunteers at our heart. Values shared by generations of supporters like you who have powered our lifesaving work through your kindness and generosity for over 200 years.
The vast majority of RNLI people are volunteers - ordinary people doing extraordinary things - supported by expert staff, all working together to help communities at home and abroad save lives.
How the RNLI is run
The RNLI relies on thousands of dedicated volunteers to run our lifesaving service. Separate from the coastguard and independent of government, we are a charity with one aim – to save every one.
1824 The year the RNLI was founded
97% of our operational crew are volunteers
146,000+ lives saved since formation
437 lives saved in 2024
Jobs at the RNLI
If you are looking to make a real difference with the work you do, then why not take a look at the latest vacancies at the RNLI?
Our people
Trustworthy, courageous, dedicated. The RNLI is made up of dedicated people who are working to make the waters around the UK and Ireland a safer place. From the volunteers who launch and crew the lifeboats, run the shops and raise funds, to the staff who support them, we are working as one crew to save lives at sea.
Make a lifesaving difference this Mayday
Support us this Mayday
Will you help our crews and lifeguards stay prepared and ready for anything?
Make a donation
Send a one-off gift that helps prepare our lifesavers for the next rescue.
Become a member
As a member of our lifesaving family, you'll be part of a force for good.
Shop our retail range
Treat yourself to something from our shop and you’ll be sending support to our lifesavers.
Learn more about how the RNLI is run
We are separate from the coastguard, independent of the government, and rely on our volunteers and supporters to run our lifesaving service.
See how we’re run
From our lifesavers and volunteers, to our staff and supporters, we’re all ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Meet our crowd
Working together with partners and communities, we aim to educate, influence, supervise and rescue those at risk from drowning.
How we save lives
Finding new ways to save lives through innovation, data analysis, and new technology.
Our research
We’re committed to saving lives at sea indefinitely, which means being as sustainable as we can in everything we do.
Our Sustainability Plan
Put your skills to good use and make a lifesaving difference. Take a look at our volunteering and job opportunities.
Visit our job site
You’re at the heart of everything we do and we love to hear from you. Depending on your enquiry, there are many ways to contact us.
Find the best way for you