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Event planning resources

Find useful resources to help you plan events for the RNLI. From top tips to helpful risk assessment guides, we've put together all the resources you need to help you plan and run fun, safe and legal events.

Here’s where you’ll find generic templates - such as a budget spreadsheet and an Event Management Plan - as well as guidance to help you plan effective events and fundraise within health and safety laws. There are also event-specific resources, such as safety assurance checklists for water-based events and a route signage template for cycling events.

All these event planning resources are stored in the RNLI Media Library, known as the Source.

General event planning

  • A group photo of Hoylake RNLI volunteers and members of Hoylake Sailing Club who took part in the 50th Slater Trophy Boxing Day Tug of War in 2022. They are standing outdoors on grass and the sky is blue.
    Risk assessment templates

    Completing a risk assessment for your event will help you to identify any potential hazards. Then you can take steps to minimise the risks and help to keep everyone safe.

    Find risk assessments
  • Runners taking part in an RNLI Reindeer Run in Moors Valley Country Park in Dorset. Most runners are wearing red Reindeer Run T-shirts and antlers. Two are waving at the camera.
    Event planning guidance

    These guides will help you keep track as you plan your event, from licensing and food safety, to accessibility and stewarding.

    Find useful guides
  • A plate of cupcakes with a mini RNLI flag
    Event planning templates

    Download useful templates to help you plan the details of your event – from an event timing schedule to a budget spreadsheet.

    Find planning templates

Resources for specific events

  • RNLI volunteers on the beach at the Rhyl Winter Dip event. Swimmers are coming out of the water. It’s a bright, sunny day with clear blue skies.
    Cold water dips

    Find the resources you need to run a safe cold water dip event. Download the 'how to guide' and specific risk assessments, volunteer briefing templates and safety assurance checklists.

    Resources for cold water dips
  • A male cyclist and a female cyclist, both in RNLI-branded clothing
    Cycling

    If you're planning on holding a cycling event, you’ll need these resources. Download specific risk assessments, volunteer briefing templates and a route signage template.

    Resources for cycling events
  • A group of swimmers with buoyancy aids in the sea
    Swimming

    If your fundraising event involves swimming, use these resources. Download specific risk assessments, volunteer briefing templates and safety assurance checklists.

    Resources for swimming events
  • Two RNLI fundraisers running along a woodland track
    Running

    You can find all the resources you need for organising a running event here. Download guidance and templates to help you on your way.

    Resources for running events
  • Exmouth Lifeboat Station open day
    Station Open Days

    Find all the resources you need for organising a Station Open day. Download a ‘how to guide’, planning checklist and specific risk assessment template to help you on your way.

    Resources for Station Open Days

Please let your branch or group designated event volunteer know if you’re planning a fundraising event or activity. They can register it and make sure you get the support you need.

The contents of this site are being updated all the time as new materials are finalised and become available. If there is something you can't find that you need, please contact us on [email protected].

Online registration and ticketing

If you’re planning an event that requires online registration or ticket sales, the RNLI has dedicated platforms that RNLI event organisers must use. The platform offers an easy way to share the event, take payments and attendee details and email event information (including Just Giving links); helping maximise ticket and sponsorship income. Also ensuring the necessary RNLI legal terms, data notices,  health declarations and financial processes are included. 

For more information, please refer to the guidance document and then complete the request form.

Request Online Registration

If you have any queries about completing the form please contact us on [email protected].

For more general information about GDPR at events, we also recommend referring to the 'GDPR and Data Management at RNLI Events guide'

Manual registration

If you opt for manual registration for your event, please contact us on [email protected]. We will help you make sure you have the latest correct legal wording included on your sign-up forms.