RNLI Events
We’re delighted that you are considering taking part in one of our events. By taking part you’ll be helping provide the support our volunteers need in order to rescue the thousands of people who rely on us to save their lives every year around the coasts of the UK and Ireland.
So whether you’re looking for a new personal challenge, like the idea of taking part in an event or are keen to support the work of the RNLI, there is an event for you.
RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews and lifeguards are busier than ever, rescuing thousands of people and saving hundreds of lives every year.
The following shows the difference our lifesaving work makes in numbers:
- There are 238 lifeboat stations around the UK and Ireland, covering 19,000 miles of coastline.
- RNLI lifeguards operate at busy times on 248 beaches around the UK and Channel Islands.
- Over 95% of the RNLI’s people are volunteers.
- There are over 5,500 volunteer operational crew, over 2,800 volunteer shore crew and 109 volunteer lifeguards.
- 93% of our total income comes from legacies and donations.
- 87p in every £1 donated funds our lifesaving activities. 13p in every £1 donated is used to generate more funds.
The RNLI also works with partners globally and in countries where drowning is a significant problem – to elevate the issue onto the global agenda, widen the research base and grow skills.
We were all affected by the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. And too many families were also affected by drowning. In the UK, the Water Incident Database (WAID) recorded over 600 drownings during 2020, and 305 coastal fatalities. In Ireland, 42 lost their lives to drowning.
This is part of a bigger problem. An estimated 320,000 people drown worldwide every year.
In 2020:
• RNLI lifeboat crew and lifeguards saved 349 lives and helped over 33,546 people.
• RNLI lifeboats launched a total of 8,242 times.
• RNLI lifeguards responded to 10,687 incidents.
By taking part in one of our events you will be raising vital funds to help support our rescue service.
Even a small amount can make a real difference.
So take the first step on your journey and register now to become part of Team RNLI.
We’ll support you every step of the way to ensure that you get the best out of your experience.