birthday mailer image showing fundraisers in action

For 200 years, RNLI volunteers have counted on kindness

Today, they’re still braving wild waters to save people in need
RNLI fundraisers pose for a group photo

Volunteer

Volunteer for the RNLI and you'll be part of a lifesaving tradition that has been going strong since 1824

Volunteers are the heart of the RNLI and make up the vast majority of our people. They are ordinary people who do extraordinary things and without them we couldn’t save lives at sea.

And it’s not all about volunteering on our lifeboats or at our stations; there are so many other ways you can give a little (or a lot) of your time to support the RNLI and make a lifesaving difference.

Come rain or shine, RNLI fundraising volunteers always have a smile on their face!

Photo: RNLI / Nigel Millard

Come rain or shine, RNLI fundraising volunteers always have a smile on their face!

How you can volunteer

There are so many ways you can volunteer. From joining the crews at lifeboat stations and helping to run the RNLI shops, to becoming a water safety volunteer or joining a fundraising group. The RNLI relies on people like you dedicating their time and energy to saving lives at sea.

Get involved
We are one crew image of different face shots of RNLI volunteers and staff

Volunteer opportunities

Take a look at our latest volunteer opportunities to see where your time and energy can help the RNLI. From roles at lifeboat stations to fundraising groups in need of extra support, there’s a need for your skills, experience and passion to help the RNLI.

Where you can help

5,700+ volunteer lifeboat crew

4,000+ volunteer shore crew

119 Volunteer lifeguards

23,000+ volunteer community fundraisers

View from onboard Tenby RNLI’s Tamar class lifeboat, Haydn Miller 16-02

Photo: Michael Topham

View from onboard Tenby RNLI’s Tamar class lifeboat, Haydn Miller 16-02

Volunteer Zone

Looking for support with your volunteering? The volunteer zone has everything you need to help you make the most of your time with the RNLI. You’ll find useful resources and guides, wellbeing support and the latest volunteer news.

Find out more
Anna watson volunteer for RNLI
I’ve never regretted one day volunteering for the RNLI - and I really believe that people can make a difference.
Anna Watson Volunteer Chair of Looe Fundraising Committee

Useful links for volunteers

Come rain or shine, RNLI fundraising volunteers always have a smile on their face!
How you can volunteer
Find out about the different volunteering roles at the RNLI and how to apply.
Get involved
We are one crew image of different face shots of RNLI volunteers and staff
Find volunteering opportunities near you
Looking for volunteering opportunities near you? Take a look at our latest volunteer vacancies to see where you can put your skills, experience and passion to work to help the RNLI.
where you can help
View from onboard Tenby RNLI’s Tamar class lifeboat, Haydn Miller 16-02
Volunteer Zone
A dedicated area for RNLI volunteers. Get the latest news, resources and more.
Find out more
Close up portrait of Torbay RNLI Crew Member Michelle Fox
Contact our Volunteering Team
Ready for a fun, rewarding volunteer role? Register your interest and one of our team will be in touch with you shortly.
Get in touch
RNLI Community Safety Volunteer Bill Walton giving advice at Southampton Boat Show
Volunteering FAQs
Got a question? Find all you need to know about volunteering for the RNLI.
Learn more