Young South Tyneside fundraiser supports RNLI with safety whistle project
A remarkable 14-year-old fundraiser from South Tyneside has chosen to support the RNLI through his innovative safety whistle project, helping to raise vital funds for the charity's lifesaving work while promoting water safety in the community.
Luke James Hedley BCyA, an Advanced Open Water PADI Diver and recipient of several prestigious awards, recently met members of Sunderland RNLI's volunteer crew to discuss his fundraising initiative, Jimmy's Whistles. Using a 3D printer he received as a Christmas gift, Luke designs and produces safety whistles which he sells to raise money for charity.
Having previously supported mountain rescue fundraising efforts, Luke has now expanded his project to support the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, with 100% of proceeds from whistle sales being donated to Sunderland RNLI to help support its volunteer lifesaving service.
Luke's achievements have already received national recognition. He has been awarded the British Citizen Youth Award 2025, received a Gold Blue Peter Badge, was named Best of South Tyneside Child of Achievement 2026 Winner, and was recognised as Fundraiser of the Year Runner-Up.
The safety whistles are designed to promote personal safety and are suitable for a wide range of activities, including swimming, kayaking, diving, paddleboarding and sailing, as well as everyday use.
Claire Louise Bird, RNLI Press Officer, said: 'It was a pleasure to meet Luke and learn more about his fantastic fundraising project. His dedication to promoting safety and supporting charities at such a young age is truly inspiring. Every pound raised helps support our volunteer crews as they continue to save lives at sea, and we are incredibly grateful for his support.'
Luke said: 'I love to help people, and everyone should carry a Safety Whistle.'
Members of the public will have an opportunity to meet Luke and purchase one of his safety whistles at Sunderland RNLI's Harbour Day event on Sunday 9 August. Whistles are available for £4 each, with all proceeds supporting Sunderland RNLI.
The RNLI would like to congratulate Luke on his achievements and thank him for his commitment to water safety, fundraising and supporting lifesaving charities.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact:
Claire Bird, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI Sunderland, [email protected]
Clare Hopps, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for North East and East England, 07824 518641, [email protected]
Richard Grange, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for North East and East England, 07483 112015, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, 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.