RNLI on the lookout for new lifesavers in the South West

Recruitment for this season’s team of RNLI beach lifesavers has opened nationally, ready for the summer season. As well as rescuing those in difficulty, the RNLI’s beach lifeguards promote safe behaviour so visitors can return home safely.

In 2020, the charity’s lifeguards responded to more than 10,687 incidents and helped just over 25,000 people, saving 110 lives. Successful applicants will receive world-class lifesaving training, enjoy good rates of pay and develop valuable skills for a future career.

Matt Whitley is the RNLI lifeguard Supervisor, he says: ‘Lifeguarding is a really unique and rewarding role. You can gain some invaluable skills and training whilst working on the beach and being part of an incredible team.

‘If you enjoy working in a challenging environment, have the ability to work under pressure and you like helping others, it really is a job you will love.’

Will Figes worked his first season in the South West last summer and is keen to get back to work when patrols restart in April. Will says;

‘It’s a great job. No two days are ever the same, on those busy days, you are thinking on your feet, constantly assessing the situation, making quick decisions and I love working as part of a team to keep everyone safe. You finish the day tired but it’s really rewarding and its great to have the opportunity to learn. On the quieter days we keep up the training with the knowledge that that training will be crucial. I would say it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys helping people, being outdoors, the sea and keeping fit.

My passion for lifeguarding and helping people has also influenced my career choice, I plan to go to university to study Paramedic Science and really looking forward to getting started on the course and combining study with working on the beach.’

Matt continues; ‘You could change lives – including your own – all whilst enjoying the beach as your office. If you can meet the fitness requirements, pass the interview and you are over school leaving age, there can be a role for you as a lifesaver.

‘We have lifeguards who have been working for the RNLI for years, both on the beach and as part of our support teams. It really is a great opportunity.’

Find out more about how you can help to improve the safety of a community and apply to be part of our amazing lifesaving team at rnli.org/BeALifeguard.

Notes to Editors

· Interviews available on request

· Please find a picture of RNLI lifeguard Will Figes attached credit RNLI

· Please find a general picture of an RNLI lifeguard training credit RNLI

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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.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

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