Brighton lifeboat crew calls out for volunteers

The Brighton RNLI is looking for volunteers to join the local lifeboat crew.

Senior helmsman Conrad Levy said: “Being part of a lifeboat crew is a major commitment that could ultimately include risking your life.

“You must live or work within five minutes of the lifeboat station in order to be able to respond to incidents in time.”

The Brighton lifeboat operates from Brighton Marina and, although January is usually one of the quietest months, it has already launched a couple of times this year.

The RNLI said: “Imagine for a moment that you’re part of the crew on a lifeboat. It’s 2.30am on a freezing January morning and the pager’s just woken you from a deep sleep in a snug warm bed.

“You then head out to sea in complete darkness with freezing waves breaking around you. “Gale force winds throw the lifeboat around like a toy. A fishing trawler is in difficulties miles out to sea.

“And you want to volunteer for this?

“New equipment and faster boats means that regular training programmes account for much of your spare time.

“You may also be asked to help show visitors around the station and with local fundraising.

“Lifeboat crews come from all walks of life. Today, only one in ten of our new recruits have a professional maritime background.”

Anyone interested in joining should

• be aged between 17 and 45 years old
• live or work within five minutes of the lifeboat station
• pass a probationary period that normally lasts one year
• pass a medical and eyesight test and be physically fit
• be a team player and accepted by the rest of the crew
• enjoy hard physical work

The RNLI said that crew members also needed good personal skills – including the ability to get on well with others, communicate easily – talking and listening – and the ability to obey orders.

It added: “The RNLI provides first class training and equipment, guidance and support.

“For you it’s an opportunity to achieve, save lives and a chance to be part of our world class rescue service.

“We can offer you one of the most exciting and fulfilling voluntary jobs available.”

Apply or find out more by emailing brighton@rnli.org.uk.