RNLI statement on the Cranston Inquiry
The following RNLI statement is in response to the conclusion of the Cranston Inquiry into the deaths of at least 27 people in the English Channel on 24 November 2021:
'Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this tragedy.
'Whilst the RNLI was not directly involved in the search and rescue response to this specific incident, we have fully supported the Cranston Inquiry and have given evidence to share the experience of the RNLI’s volunteers and staff in the hope that recommendations can be made to reduce the risk of a similar tragic loss of life in the future.
‘As we have heard during the Inquiry, the UK’s search and rescue response to small boat crossings has evolved significantly since November 2021. However, the English Channel remains an extremely demanding search and rescue environment in which our volunteer crews are often confronted with highly challenging rescue scenarios, involving large numbers of distressed men, women and children in the water.
‘We are incredibly proud of our crews who continue to respond selflessly to their pagers, day or night, simply to help others. They have responded with continued dedication and commitment to save lives at sea.
‘We will now reflect on the evidence heard throughout the Inquiry and await the findings of Sir Ross Cranston.’
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.