Withernsea RNLI flies the flag for IDAHOBIT

The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) is observed on 17 May and the RNLI are showing their support by flying the rainbow flag alongside their own station flag, lifeguard units and shops.

Several members of the Withernsea volunteer lifeboat crew attended the station to show support in raising the rainbow flag, alongside David Scott (Area Lifesaving manager) and Alex Richardson (Lead Lifeguard supervisor).

One of the newest crew members, Shaun Harrison commented: 'It feels good to be involved, to be part of such an important event.'

Aidan Gorman, also a crew member said: 'The RNLI are an extremely diverse organisation and welcomes anyone regardless of their ethnicity or sexuality'.

David Scott, Area Lifesaving Manager attends the station regularly, and was involved in organising todays show of support for IDAHOBIT.

He reflected on the day saying: 'It is fantastic to see the RNLI family supporting such a significant event within the LGBT community. The RNLI want to create a vibrant environment that promotes dignity and respect to all, welcoming volunteers into the charity that save lives at sea.'

Alex Richardson, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor says: ‘The RNLI is for everyone, it fills me with such pride to be part of the team and a part of this event.’

The LGBT+ Network is made up of a group of people who are here to support everyone who identifies under the rainbow flag, be it managers, volunteers, staff, friends or families.

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For more information please contact Rachel Gowen, RNLI Volunteer Press Officer: [email protected]

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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.

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