RNLI Brighton celebrates International Women’s Day 2022

For generations, women have saved lives, launched lifeboats, and fundraised millions to help keep the RNLI afloat - and in Brighton, this is no different.

Women have played a hands-on role in lifesaving since the RNLI formed in 1824 and seven frontline crew members in Brighton are carrying on that legacy today.

As well as the seven crew members - out of a total of 24 - there are a further 12 female volunteers including those who run the shop, speak in schools, fundraise and help to promote the work of the RNLI.

Crew member Emily Summerfield said: 'It’s not any different being female or male – although on International Women's Day it's all about girl power!

'Everyone is really welcoming and everyone gets treated the same – it’s a really inclusive organisation.'

Fellow crew member Livia Brynin added: 'Seven out of 24 members of the crew are female, and a further 12 women work or volunteer at Brighton lifeboat station.

'We have a WhatsApp group to organise social events, and generally help each other out.

'It’s not cliquey in anyway it’s just nice to know you’ve got some girls there. You can grab a cup of tea and some biscuits - it’s a nice friendship group.'

To get involved with the RNLI in Brighton you can keep an eye on opportunities here or come and meet volunteers at the station on April 2, where they will be holding a fundraising event.

· For more information please contact volunteer lifeboat press officer Hatti Mellor on 07724 801305 or the regional media officer Paul Dunt on 07785 296252.

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.