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‘The RNLI has a remarkable nearly 200-year history and I feel honoured and excited to be able to play a role in guiding this wonderful charity into the start of its third century.’
Chair
Our Trustees
Our trustees are a body of volunteers who carry the full financial and legal responsibility for everything the RNLI does.
They must ensure that everything done by the RNLI is genuinely and solely in pursuit of its objects: firstly, to save lives, promote safety and provide relief from disaster at sea, and, secondly, to save lives, promote safety and provide relief from disaster on inland waters.
RNLI Trustees bring a wide range of knowledge, expertise and experience to the organisation and approve our Strategic and Business Plans, Annual Budget and Annual Report and Accounts.
Trustees are appointed from within and by the RNLI Council at the Annual Meeting of the Council each July. However other people with the right skills and experience may also be considered.
The RNLI Council provides a wealth of experience and expertise to support the running of the charity. Council members advise and assist our decision-making body, the RNLI Trustee Board, and act as important ambassadors for our lifesaving cause.
For more information, see the RNLI governance and management structure (PDF 113KB).
Meet our current trustees
‘A shared wish to save lives and to prevent drowning is deeply motivating and draws us together.’
Deputy Chair
‘I feel privileged to be part of the RNLI, an Institution that reflects the best values of our communities, with courageous and inspiring people achieving marvellous feats.’
Treasurer
'I am privileged to be part of the RNLI and support our crews, lifeguards and water safety teams, who save so many lives. It is our responsibility to give our people the best quality equipment to do their courageous work as safely as possible.'
Our Trustees
'I feel privileged to be part of an organisation providing such a critical role, and with a workforce of staff and volunteers working together to deliver our purpose. The impact of the work we do is clear, not just for the individuals saved but also their families and communities.'
Our Trustees
'From my first steps aboard a sailboat as a boy to a recent transatlantic crossing, I have developed a deep admiration for the RNLI’s lifesaving mission. I am honoured to contribute with my experience in digital and technology to support the delivery of a modern, sustainable, and future-ready service.'
Our Trustees
‘The poorest countries globally account for 90% of drowning deaths. I’m delighted to be working with the RNLI to help bring about change.’
Our Trustees
‘It is an honour to be a volunteer in an organisation that has saved so many lives for almost 200 years, and my hope is that I can contribute to the RNLI in their continuing delivery of this invaluable service to society in the seas and lakes that abound around and in our isles.’
Our trustees
‘Coming from a beautiful coastal community, the RNLI has been part of my life for many years. It’s a privilege to support and honour the lifesaving work of the Institution.’
Our Trustees
'It’s such an honour to be part of this incredible organisation, which is held in such high regard by everyone. I feel very lucky to be offered the chance to volunteer for the Trustee Board and to bring my own background to help wherever I can.'
Our Trustees
'I’ve been a great admirer of the RNLI ever since learning about Grace Darling at school and feel honoured to be asked to be a Trustee. I really want to help the RNLI deliver on its future vision and will use my governance and corporate change experience to further this goal.'
Our Trustees
'As a former RNLI volunteer crew member, I am very proud to be able to continue to play a part in helping to ensure that the invaluable, selfless and courageous humanitarian work delivered by the men and women of the RNLI for nearly two centuries will carry on for generations to come.'
Our Trustees
'The courage and dedication of RNLI staff and volunteers is truly inspiring. It is an incredible privilege to have the opportunity to support them'
Our Trustees