Both Poole lifeboats launch with all female crew on International Women’s Day
A moment in history for Poole Lifeboat Station today (8 March) as both lifeboats launched on International Women’s Day fully crewed by our dedicated women volunteers.
Not only were the boats crewed by Kitty, Suzie, Nikki, Fiona, Em, Lily and Anna, the launch was authorised by Lifeboat Operations Manager Helen, and the team were assisted by Boathouse Manager Sue.
Also down to support the team was Lizz, Admin Officer, Fiona, Lifeboat Medical Advisor and Anne-Marie, Lifeboat Press Officer.
Supported by thousands of women in fundraising, water safety, engineering and staff teams, 15% of RNLI operational crew are women, and at Poole Lifeboat Station, 25% of the entire team are women.
Lifeboat Operations Manager, Helen Gilchrist said: ‘It was an incredibly proud moment this morning so see both our lifeboats launch on training and to see our team of women volunteers come together to mark International Women’s Day’
‘Although we’ve always had women on the crew, this is the first time we’ve been able to launch both lifeboats to mark this special occasion.’
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
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.