RNLI launches Women in Lifeguarding Training Week

Held over four days (28 September to 1 October) in Newquay, the programme brought together participants from each region of the RNLI to take part in operational training, team-building activities and leadership discussions designed to support progression within RNLI lifeguarding.

The week builds on a history of workshops held by the former Female Lifeguard Engagement Group, including a lifeguard module at the Women in Search and Rescue event in Poole and a women’s Operational Leadership Course. The new Women in Lifeguarding Week is the first event planned and delivered at the coast by the Women in Lifeguarding Leadership Team – providing a lifeguard equivalent to the WiSAR event held annually for operational lifeboat volunteers. The event is part of a 5-year plan which aims to see the training week become an annual activity, with each RNLI region having an opportunity to host and share training unique to their area. 

Throughout the week, attendees took part in a range of activities including coasteering and team-building exercises, rescue watercraft (RWC), inshore rescue boat (IRB) and rescue board training, casualty care scenarios, and a multi-agency sand hole collapse exercise alongside HM Coastguard and the fire and rescue service. 

Participants also visited the Search and Rescue base in Newquay to learn more about the work of the Coastguard Rescue Helicopter team.

The week also included a panel discussion featuring Gemma Wright, RNLI Head of Region for the South West, Anna Smee, Chief Executive of Surf Life Saving GB, and Emmie Seward-Adams, RNLI Water Safety Officer, who shared their experiences and insights into leadership, development and progression within the sector.

Gemma said: ‘It was a real privilege to spend time with everyone in Newquay. What struck me most was the energy, openness and genuine sense of connection throughout the week. It was wonderful to see women learning from one another, building confidence, sharing experiences and creating such a strong community of support. Opportunities like this really matter. They help people challenge themselves, feel that they belong and see what is possible. I’m incredibly proud that the RNLI is creating opportunities like this and continuing to build an environment where everyone can thrive.’

The Women in Lifeguarding Training Week was created to celebrate and support women working across RNLI Lifeguarding, helping participants develop confidence in operational and leadership environments while strengthening peer support networks across regions.

There are currently around 500 women working within RNLI Lifeguarding, helping to keep people safe on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands.

Amy Edmonds, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor in Devon and one of the organisers and facilitators of the week, said:

‘It's been incredible to see such a talented group of female lifeguards come together, share knowledge and experience, and support each other.

I'm proud to have been part of creating it, and excited to see it grow year on year, region by region, helping women thrive in their careers, stay within the RNLI and inspire future generations.’

The event highlighted the RNLI's commitment to supporting women to develop operational skills, leadership capability and confidence, while creating opportunities to build lasting networks and explore future progression pathways within lifeguarding and the wider charity. 

Gracie Walton, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor from North Yorkshire, attended the week:

‘Something that I've enjoyed is being able to find out about different opportunities. We've visited with the Coastguard; we've had people coming in to talk about opportunities that I didn't even know existed.

‘I think weeks like this helps ensure that women know that there is space for them in search and rescue.’ 

Emily Lawrence, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor in Brighton, has been lifeguarding for 10 years and also helped to organise and facilitate the week: 

‘I've really enjoyed this week, and I've really enjoyed seeing the girls enjoy it as well. Seeing them connect with each other, network and share their experiences within their areas to help each other and support each other. It's been great to watch.

‘If anyone's keen to join next year, I'd say put yourself forward, give it a go. It's a chance for you to meet other people within the service, meet other really inspiring women and connect and then progress within the service too.’

If you’re a female lifeguard looking to make connections with other women across the organisation, ask your supervisor for the link to the national SPOND Channel for female lifeguards. For any queries related to Women in Lifeguarding, you can also ask for the leadership team's email address.