RNLI searches for dynamic duo to lead in Saving Lives at Sea in the Solent

Last year crews at the two stations launched their lifeboats more than 160 times, went to the aid of 100 people and saved two lives as they sought to keep the Solent safe.

Now both Portsmouth and Hayling Island are on a mission to find new Lifeboat Operations Managers who will play a crucial role in the day to day running of the stations and who manage the incredible team of volunteers to ensure they are ready to take to the water at a moment’s notice.

The charity is looking for people with managerial experience as well as a passion for the coast, and who share the RNLI’s aim of saving lives at sea.

Portsmouth Lifeboat Station has been providing search and rescue for the eastern Solent since 1965. The crews have won two medals for gallantry and currently operate two inshore lifeboats.

A short distance to the east is Hayling Island lifeboat station which operates a further two inshore lifeboats in the east of the Solent and has been operating since 1865. The crew have been awarded 30 awards for gallantry over their 156 year history.

The main duties for successful candidates will include:

- Authorising launch of the lifeboats

- Providing leadership to the operations team

- Ensuring that all operational activities are carried out safely and that the lifeboats and all associated equipment are maintained in a constant state of readiness to launch on service

In return for volunteering your time and skills, the RNLI offers training to fulfil your role in an inclusive and diverse organisation as well as a great opportunity to join a motivated and enthusiastic team.

The ideal person for the role would be a good communicator, team player and have an enthusiasm for the RNLI. Leadership skills are required and a good level of IT literacy is desired.

If you would like to be considered for this volunteer role please apply using the links below:

Portsmouth: https://volunteering.rnli.org/vacancy/volunteer-lifeboat-operations-manager-portsmouth-447590.html

Hayling Island: https://volunteering.rnli.org/vacancy/volunteer-lifeboat-operations-manager-hayling-island-445320.html

Notes to editors

· To learn more about Portsmouth lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/portsmouth-lifeboat-station

· To learn more about Hayling Island lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/hayling-island-lifeboat-station

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone Sarah Beck, Media Engagement Placement on 07929 673280 or [email protected] or Paul Dunt, Regional Media Officer on 07785 296252 or [email protected] or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.