Volunteer

Volunteer for the RNLI and you'll be part of a lifesaving tradition that has been going strong since 1824

Volunteers are the heart of the RNLI and make up the vast majority of our people. They are ordinary people who do extraordinary things and without them we couldn’t save lives at sea.

And it’s not all about volunteering on our lifeboats or at our stations; there are so many other ways you can give a little (or a lot) of your time to support the RNLI and make a lifesaving difference.

Come rain or shine, RNLI fundraising volunteers always have a smile on their face!

How you can volunteer

There are so many ways you can volunteer. From joining the crews at lifeboat stations and helping to run the RNLI shops, to becoming a water safety volunteer or joining a fundraising group. The RNLI relies on people like you dedicating their time and energy to saving lives at sea.

Get involved

We are one crew image of different face shots of RNLI volunteers and staff

Volunteer opportunities

Take a look at our latest volunteer opportunities to see where your time and energy can help the RNLI. From roles at lifeboat stations to fundraising groups in need of extra support, there’s a need for your skills, experience and passion to help the RNLI.

Where you can help

5,700+ volunteer lifeboat crew

4,000+ volunteer shore crew

98 Volunteer lifeguards

14,000+ volunteer community fundraisers

View from onboard Tenby RNLI’s Tamar class lifeboat, Haydn Miller 16-02 — View from onboard Tenby RNLI’s Tamar class lifeboat, *Haydn Miller* 16-02

Volunteer Zone

Looking for support with your volunteering? The volunteer zone has everything you need to help you make the most of your time with the RNLI. You’ll find useful resources and guides, wellbeing support and the latest volunteer news.

Find out more

Useful links for volunteers

How you can volunteer

Find out about the different volunteering roles at the RNLI and how to apply.

Get involved

Find volunteering opportunities near you

Looking for volunteering opportunities near you? Take a look at our latest volunteer vacancies to see where you can put your skills, experience and passion to work to help the RNLI.

where you can help