Bridlington RNLI Inspire future generation of Women in Search and Rescue
On Saturday 13 June, Bridlington RNLI lifeboat station was proud to host a Women in Search and Rescue Conference, bringing together volunteers and professionals from across the region and beyond.
The event was organised by Meg Woodhouse, RNLI Water Safety Delivery Support and Filey crew member, with support from Bridlington’s Lifeboat Management Group Chair, Lynn Shaw, and the station’s events team. The conference aimed to create a supportive space for women to share experiences and build confidence in operational roles.
Speaking about the event, Meg said, ‘This conference is about creating a supportive space where women in search and rescue roles can come together, share experiences and learn from one another. The RNLI has made great progress, women are still underrepresented in operational roles, and events like this are vital in building confidence, connection and opportunity.’
With women making up around 15% of RNLI operational crew, the event focused on encouraging greater inclusion and connection across search and rescue services. Attendees travelled from across Yorkshire and as far afield as Berwick-upon-Tweed and Burnham-on-Crouch.
The programme included sessions on leadership, managing difficult conversations and women’s health, along with a wellbeing session led by Yorkshire Ambulance Service Team Leader, Lucy White. Crew also had the opportunity to try specialist drysuits designed for women, highlighting ongoing improvements in inclusive equipment.
Dave Scott, RNLI Area Operations Manager, said: ‘Events like this are vital in supporting and developing our volunteers, building confidence and strengthening links across the wider search and rescue community.’
Representatives from HM Coastguard, Hornsea Rescue and RNLI stations across the region attended, with many praising the supportive atmosphere and opportunity to share experiences.
Whitby RNLI volunteer helm, Leah Hunter, said ‘It was a brilliant day and was a fantastic opportunity to meet other women from RNLI stations across the region. The guest speakers were inspiring, and it was great to hear about the different experiences and journeys that have brought people into lifesaving roles.’
Also commenting upon the conclusion of the event, volunteer Laura Wedgewood, RNLI inshore lifeboat helm at Redcar stated, ‘A powerful reminder of the strength of the RNLI, built on shared experiences, dedication, and a united One Crew where everyone can belong and thrive.’
Roger Buxton, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM), who was an attendee at the conference added, ‘In 1994 my yacht lost its rudder mid‑race and was towed in by Ijmuiden (Netherland) lifeboat. Days later, off Flamborough Head, we broke down again and Flamborough RNLI towed us safely into Bridlington.
At the Women in Search and Rescue conference , I got talking to the lady next to me, Anita Vardy, now a launch authority at Flamborough but had been on the crew. I asked for how long and when did she start, it quickly became obvious that it was Anita that rescued me 32 years ago, I finally got the chance to say thank you.’
Photograph credited to Bridlington RNLI/Mike Milner.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact:
Michael Milner, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI North and East, [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.
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