RNLI lifeguards start daily beach patrols in Sunderland
Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) lifeguards will soon return to beaches in Sunderland to offer a reassuring presence during the Spring Bank Holiday weekend (from Saturday 23 May).
Between 10am and 6pm, the lifeguards will patrol three designated beaches from the second last weekend in May before expanding to a daily service that will operate until Sunday 6 September.
The beaches in Sunderland that will be monitored by RNLI lifeguards include Cats and Dogs, Roker and Seaburn.
The lifeguarding team in the North and East have been working hard to complete vital training and are looking forward to returning to the beaches full time.
RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor, Sean Mills said: 'Following a stringent training programme our charity’s lifeguards are really looking forward to returning to their posts. Come rain or shine we’ll be there to offer friendly safety advice such as always to swim between the red and yellow flags and information on tide times.’
He added: ‘We always advise people to visit a lifeguarded beach. It’s great to see visitors enjoying the coast with the extra peace of mind of knowing that we are there should they need us.’
Sunderland City Council’s Executive Director of Economy and Place, Peter McIntyre, said: ‘We are proud to have such beautiful beaches here in Sunderland, and we want residents and visitors to enjoy them safely. If you’re planning on swimming in the sea, choosing a lifeguarded beach is always the safest option, so we’re delighted that RNLI lifeguards are back on duty across our coastline this summer.’
‘Their presence provides reassurance, expert advice and first aid support to beachgoers, as well as vital help in any emergency situations.’
He added: ‘It’s particularly special to welcome them back this year as the RNLI celebrates the 25th anniversary of its lifeguarding service in 2026.’
When visiting the beach this summer remember:
· Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.
· Keep a close eye on your family - on the beach and in the water - don't allow your family to swim alone.
· If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Find out how here: Float To Live – What To Do In An Emergency – RNLI
To learn more about RNLI lifeguarded beaches visit: RNLI Lifeguards In The UK And Channel Islands
Notes to editors
· As RNLI lifeguards need to be physically on the beach during the patrolled hours, ready to respond to emergencies and prevent accidents, the RNLI can’t rely on volunteers to provide this cover seven days a week.
· Local authorities part fund the RNLI’s costs, which helps meet the cost of lifeguard wages.
· Throughout 2026, the RNLI is celebrating the 25-year anniversary of the lifeguarding service.
RNLI online
For more information, please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the RNLI News Centre.
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.
RNLI Media Contacts
For more information, please email Gillian Carmoodie at [email protected] or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336 789.
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.