The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is currently looking to recruit more face-to-face fundraisers to help share vital safety messages and encourage new supporters to sign up and donate after the charity experienced a shortfall in funds last year.
With 238 lifeboat stations, 431 lifeboats and 5,500 volunteer crew members, plus 1,500 lifeguards patrolling over 240 UK beaches, the RNLI’s remit is vast. The charity is currently facing a ‘perfect storm’ of being busier than ever while its income is down. The charity needs to keep raising money to cover the ongoing work needed to maintain and upgrade lifeboats, stations, kit and training.
As part of its renewed focus on fundraising, the RNLI is seeking to increase its number of face-to-face fundraisers this year and recruit up to 200 people, in a seasonal role that is vital in helping save lives at sea.
Working within a team, the role of a face-to-face fundraiser would suit dynamic and engaging individuals with great interpersonal skills who can share inspiring stories of volunteer crews and lifeguards with those visiting the beach and at public events, while also engaging new audiences and inspiring new regular supporters.
A crucial part of the role will include educating visitors about key safety messages and a drive to help sign up new supporters to make regular donations to the RNLI.
Evan Chrisp knows first-hand about the importance of the RNLI’s safety advice after some safety messaging from that charity helped save his life.
Evan said: ‘A couple of years ago when I was caught in a rip current, I remembered the RNLI Float to Live advice. I stayed calm and floated with the help of a surfer until a lifeboat crew rescued me.’
Since being rescued Evan has become an RNLI ambassador and has this year also joined the face-to-face fundraising team. Evan goes on to say:
For the first time this year, the charity is recruiting face-to-face fundraisers to cover the main season, which runs from April – October, as well as the usual peak season running through July and August. Training will be given in all aspects required for the role.
The RNLI is currently recruiting for these roles in nine regions around the UK and Ireland including Ramsgate.
More information about the available roles is available at RNLI.org/FundraiserJobs