Update on Pwllheli Lifeboat Station

With some crew unable to work together at sea – a very challenging environment where trust and collaboration are crucial - the RNLI took the difficult decision to reset operations with a goal of rebuilding an inclusive and sustainable lifeboat station.

The RNLI reluctantly ended volunteering arrangements with all operational crew, asking them to reapply for roles and recommit to the lifesaving service. Two-thirds of the crew have expressed their commitment to moving forward with the lifeboat station, with 19 volunteers so far expressing their desire to re-establish their volunteer relationships and work with the RNLI to restart and rebuild operations at Pwllheli Lifeboat Station.

Jo Partner, RNLI Head of Region, said: ‘The sea is an extremely demanding environment, and it takes a deep level of trust between crew members to save lives at sea.

‘We are incredibly grateful to all our volunteers at Pwllheli for their service and commitment, however we have had to deal with a very complex situation and want to ensure we can continue to provide a service from Pwllheli for many years to come.

‘The RNLI is committed to Pwllheli Lifeboat Station and is focussed on working collaboratively with those volunteers who are willing to commit to rebuilding the team. The priority is now to recommence training in the coming weeks and return the D-class inshore lifeboat to service.’

The ‘operational reset’ at Pwllheli follows a thorough and robust investigation into issues raised by some of the crew.

The investigation was completed by experienced managers and every crew member had the opportunity to share information and speak to us in confidence. Where appropriate, action was taken and we are confident processes were followed fairly.

The RNLI takes allegations and concerns raised by volunteers and staff very seriously and has processes in place to ensure these are heard and investigated. We have a code of conduct which outlines the behaviours and values which we expect our staff and volunteers to adhere to. Where these standards fall short, we will act.

While Pwllheli Lifeboat Station is off service, effective rescue cover in the area is being provided by neighbouring RNLI lifeboat stations. Cover is being provided by all-weather lifeboats situated at Porthdinllaen and Barmouth, with support from the Atlantic 85 lifeboats at Abersoch and Criccieth, the fastest lifeboats in the RNLI’s coastal fleet.

The RNLI is also encouraging applications from people interested in volunteering at Pwllheli Lifeboat Station, and several people have already come forward to say they want to be part of the crew.

There are several different volunteer roles available at Pwllheli Lifeboat Station and full training and support will be provided to those who wish to be part of the crew.

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.