Apply now to be a global drowning prevention champion

Until 19 August 2018, anyone affected by drowning anywhere in the world can apply for the chance to participate in a unique workshop to develop their skills to help raise awareness of the need for drowning prevention, influence decision makers and drive global change.

We are looking for applications from anyone over the age of 18 who has been affected by drowning, rescued someone from the water or living within a community affected by the issue. Applicants from low and middle income countries disproportionately affected by drowning are encouraged to apply.

Currently, the voices of those on the front-line of the global drowning problem are absent from discussions on prevention. Decision makers at all levels remain largely unaware of the scale of the problem and how it can be prevented, so we want to help amplify the voices of those directly affected.

The interactive training programme will help successful applicants learn how to use their story to drive change. Participants will be supported by advocacy experts through a face to face workshop, alongside others with similar experiences from around the world. This will be followed by a six month online or telephone based mentoring scheme.

The face to face training will run from 5 - 8 November 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand alongside this year’s World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion.

You can find out more by downloading the document below, or to apply, please email [email protected] by 19 August 2018 with an outline of your experience and description of what drives your passion for drowning prevention at a community, national or international level.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.