Community by day and by night: Skegness RNLI - Michelle's Story

Sunday 20 August 2023

Michelle Collins, a dedicated Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) for Lincolnshire Police, has found a fulfilling connection with the crew at Skegness RNLI since joining the team in 2016.

Michelle Collins in front of D class lifeboat

As a Trainee Head Launcher and Launch Vehicle Driver for Skegness RNLI lifeboat station, Michelle's commitment to serving her community extends beyond her role in community policing.

'It all started when I became a PCSO,' Michelle said. 'I got to know the volunteer crew at Skegness lifeboat and learned about their vital work. They showed me how they contribute to our community, which is the same community I serve as a PCSO.'

Michelle's ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure has proven invaluable in both roles. Trusting those around her, she effortlessly balances her responsibilities as a PCSO while embodying the skills required to safely manoeuvre the station's highly complex Shannon Launch and Recovery System (SLRS).

'The Head Launchers and Drivers make it look easy as if they're handling a dinky toy,' Michelle said. 'But there's so much more to it. One minute, I'll think I'm on track, with the boat going exactly where I want it to go. Then, it shifts, throwing me off course. But with perseverance and guidance, I always find my way back.'

Being a part of the lifeboat crew has presented Michelle with new challenges and opportunities for personal growth. Working together as a cohesive team, the volunteer crew constantly strive to keep their community safe and foster a close bond among themselves.

'I honestly wish I had joined sooner,' said Michelle. 'There's so much more to the lifeboat than just the boats, there are multiple roles to fulfil. I'm 4ft 11'' but my height doesn't mean I can't be a part of something special. I get to launch the boat and help the crew reach those in need.'

One of the parts Michelle finds toughest is knowing when her fellow volunteer crew are responding to their pagers while she is on PCSO duty. However, even during those moments, she remains dedicated to looking after her community in any way she can.

Michelle is one of three female operational crew at the station along with Lyz Thein and Ellie Barnfield.

'I am used to working in a very male-oriented environment, but I understand it can be quite daunting for others.

'We are a tight-knit crew and when the pager goes, it doesn’t matter who you are, we are all totally focused on saving lives at sea. Once you take that first step and experience it yourself, you become part of something extraordinary and rewarding.'

Michelle emphasises the importance of recognising the efforts of the shore crew – the hidden heroes - who often work behind the scenes to save lives at sea.

'While the boat crew often gets the spotlight, we mustn't forget that without the shore crew, the boat wouldn't even launch,' Michelle says. 'I love being part of the shore crew; we always laugh and look after each other. We encourage and motivate one another.

'I wouldn't be where I am today without Trevor Holland and the other Head Launchers pushing me and giving me the encouragement I needed to train as a Head Launcher and Driver. It's a responsibility that we often overlook when we think about launching and recovering the boat.'

Last year Michelle received a devastating cancer diagnosis but with her crew mates supporting her all the way, she is now in remission and back in her role.

Michelle's dedication to serving her community in both her roles as a PCSO and Trainee Head Launcher at Skegness RNLI showcases the power of individuals who go above and beyond.

Her commitment, perseverance, and ability to rise above challenges make her an inspiration to others seeking to make a difference in their communities. Michelle is a champion for Skegness, and her contribution to the area should not go unnoticed.

RNLI Media contacts
For more information please contact Brad Johnson, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer: [email protected]

Michelle Collins ringing the Bell at the Cancer Ward

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.

Community by day and by night: Skegness RNLI - Michelle's Story

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