

How you can volunteer for the RNLI
The RNLI relies on volunteering to power its lifesaving service. From lifeboat crews to press officers, fundraisers to shop volunteers, people like you who help in all sorts of ways.
What volunteering roles are there at the RNLI?
If you want to get involved with the RNLI, then there are bound to be volunteering opportunities near you. From fundraising volunteers arranging collections in their community, to helping to launch, maintain and crew lifeboats at one of our 238 lifeboat stations, if you have the time and the commitment, you can help save lives at sea.
No matter what skills you have, the RNLI has a volunteering opportunity that needs your energy and enthusiasm.

Discover the latest volunteer roles

Find more ways to volunteer
Find out more about the volunteering roles at the RNLI

Be a lifeboat station volunteer

Be a lifeguard volunteer

Be a water safety volunteer

Be a shop volunteer

Promote the RNLI

Be a heritage and museum volunteer

Be an office and support volunteer

Be a trustee, advisory and council volunteer

Quick ways to volunteer
Why should I become an RNLI volunteer?
Without people like you, the RNLI couldn’t save lives at sea. You could be lifeboat crew out on a shout, or part of the shore crew launching the lifeboat. You could be a water safety volunteer sharing lifesaving skills with people of all ages. Or you could be a fundraiser helping to fund everything the charity needs in our vision to save every one we can.
There are some great benefits to becoming a volunteer.
- You can meet new people
- Learn new skills
- Gain experience
- Contribute to saving lives at sea
- Giving back could help your mental health
- Be a part of local communities
How do I become a volunteer?
We are so pleased you are ready to become a volunteer and share your passion for the lifesaving work we do at the RNLI. We can't wait to have you onboard.
- Find a role you find interesting and fill in our short application form.
- Hear back from us and have an informal chat.
- If the role is right for you, begin the onboarding process.
- Join our community of volunteers and help save lives at sea!
How will I be a part of the RNLI?
By becoming a volunteer with the RNLI, you join a lifesaving family. We are one crew, a community of dedicated, selfless people working together towards one vision – to save every one we can.
Every volunteering role is vital in achieving that goal.
Do I need to regularly commit to be a volunteer for the RNLI?
We understand that not everyone can volunteer with the RNLI on a regular basis. The good news is there are all sorts of volunteering opportunities available, with many different time requirements. If you can’t commit regularly, then there are more casual volunteer roles available.

Volunteering opportunities
Volunteering roles









