RNLI Crew oct 2011
RNLI Crew - October 2011
The RNLI and the vital role of the volunteer
The RNLI Volunteer ethos is an essential component of the charity as it depends on volunteers who make up 97% of its people. Many thousands give their time, skill and commitment to help the RNLI save lives at sea.
The charity has over 40,000 volunteers performing over 200 roles, ranging from shore crew to accountancy. Those people who have volunteered to work with the Dart lifeboat station are perfect examples of such volunteers and it is because of them that the station exists and is run so efficiently.
Each station is supported by a voluntary lifeboat management group, with local people taking key roles. The network of support for the Dart lifeboat includes an Operations Team of 34 volunteers.
A crucial figure is the Lifeboat Operations Manager, Rob Clements, who has responsibility for authorising the launch of the lifeboat and the management of the station. Rob is assisted by five Deputy Launch Authorities - Les English, Martin Keen, Owen Mallia, Jerry Gilby and Mark Strudwick.
Currently helmsmen and crew number 20 volunteers and there is a waiting list of those wishing to train to become crew members. Volunteer shore crews are a vital part of the rescue team. They assist with the launch and recovery of the lifeboat, sometimes being appointed to specific tasks, such as tractor drivers Jim Brent and Dai Richards.
There are two mechanics for both the tractor and the boat, Mark Strudwick and Pete Fleming, the boathouse manager is Bob Thomas and the Sea Safety Officer is John Yunnie. Chris Tracey is lifeboat training co-ordinator.
Most lifeboat stations have a voluntary press officer who acts as a link with local press, TV and radio. John Fenton holds this position, assisted by Janet Hall. They are supported by both divisional and Headquarters External Communications staff, helping to maintain a positive awareness and understanding of the RNLI in the community.
John is also the Education Officer making visits to local schools to talk about beach safety and RNLI fundraising.
The role of fundraising is fundamental to the whole charity and the chair of the Dart lifeboat fundraising team is Harry Escott. His wife, Jo Escott, has been running the souvenir stall for the past few years. Sadly both Harry and Jo will be retiring from this work in the winter and their roles will need to be filled.
Robin Shiffner, Chairman of Dart lifeboat management group, said “Volunteers have always been, and remain, fundamental to the RNLI. They all perform essential tasks which help save lives at sea. T
he RNLI sets great store by the voluntary spirit of the whole institution, and we are immensely grateful for the work which is done by our volunteers and generous supporters - who will always welcome new helpers to this most worthy community enterprise.’
A complete list of the Dart lifeboat operations team can be seen on the two RNLI notice boards - outside the lifeboat station, and on the notice board between the public toilets on the Embankment.
For up to date news of the Dart lifeboat please visit the local website of www.dartlifeboat.org.uk (where news of recent launches as well as social events can be found).
Janet Hall Dart RNLI Assistant Press officer.
First published October 2011 By the Dart