RNLI SMS Launch Alerts have stopped for supporters

We’re sorry to let you know that due to regulatory changes, this SMS service will need to stop at the end of March.

The RNLI’s SMS launch alert service, where supporters can receive a text when one of our lifeboats launches, will no longer be available from 31 March 2022. This is due to regulatory changes coming into effect at the beginning of April which means our current supplier can no longer support this service. Due to the limited time available we have not been able to secure a new provider.

Find answers below to the most frequently asked questions about the SMS Launch Alert Service stopping.

The RNLI’s SMS launch alert service, where you can receive a text when one of our lifeboat launches, will no longer be available from 31 March 2022. This is due to regulatory changes coming into effect at the beginning of April which means our current supplier can no longer support this service. Due to the limited time available we have not been able to secure a new provider. Therefore, from 31 March 2022, if you are signed up you will no longer receive these texts. However, you can still see launches around the UK and Ireland on the map on our website.

If you are currently signed up you will be sent a text on the 16 March to be made aware.

No. From 31 March 2022 you will no longer be charged as this service will not be available.

Yes. You can still see still see a map on our website for the latest lifeboat launches around the UK and Ireland in the last 48 hours.

Setting this type of service up takes time and therefore for 2022 we are not looking to bring this service back. But in the long-term we will potentially look at how this service could be reinstated.

You can contact us by telephone, email or by writing to us:

Call: 0300 300 9990 (Monday to Friday 8am-6pm excluding bank holidays)

Email: [email protected]

Write to: Royal National Lifeboat Institution, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 1HZ