RNLI and Independent Lifeboats: Covid-19 — [Stewart Hosie in the Chair]

Mr Brown highlighted the importance of RNLI and independent lifeboat stations, praising their volunteers for putting their lives at risk. He noted the significant fundraising shortfall caused by Covid-19 restrictions, mentioning a £45 million deficit for RNLI. Mr Brown also raised concerns about the additional costs associated with PPE due to the pandemic.

Mr Seely thanked the many lifeboat crews on his island, highlighting that the south-west of Isle of Wight was historically a centre for shipwrecks leading to the development of lifeboats from 1840s. He mentioned Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat and RNLI lifeboats in Cowes, Yarmouth, and Bembridge were busier than ever this summer due to increased tourism during the pandemic despite fundraising difficulties. Mr Seely called for support measures such as reintroducing the rescue boat grant fund or providing funding for protective equipment.

The MP expressed dismay over criticism the RNLI received for rescuing individuals in distress during the summer period. She highlighted Eastbourne's oldest and busiest station and emphasised the need to recognise the RNLI as a hero organisation. Eastbourne's lifeboat station, established in 1822, has saved over 700 lives. The crew faces unique challenges and performs services like recovery at the foot of Beachy Head. The relationship between the RNLI and Salvation Army is historically significant and highlights local gratitude for their service. Despite public donations powering 94% of the service, the current pandemic posed challenges in maintaining covid-secure operations.

Paid tribute to Adam Robertson, a long-serving RNLI volunteer in Buckie who passed away recently. Highlighted the importance of independent lifeboats and their role in coastal communities, including education and community work.

Paid tribute to the RNLI and independent lifeboat stations in his constituency, highlighting challenges faced due to covid-19. Noted additional costs of PPE and disinfecting routines, as well as increased demand for services from staycation visitors. Raised concerns about skill fade and reduced fundraising opportunities.

Mr Young thanked the Totnes MP for securing the debate and praised his local RNLI station in Redcar. He highlighted a significant drop in fundraising from £4,000 to £600 due to virtual events this year. Additionally, fundraising by the Redcar lifeboat ladies guild was hampered as many women were shielding during the pandemic. The annual cost of running his local lifeboat station is around £50,000. Mr Young also mentioned a national shortfall for RNLI between £20 million and £45 million this year.

Jonathan Edwards highlighted the importance of the independent lifeboat in Ferryside, which has served since 1835. He praised the dedication of the volunteer crew who offer a 24/7 service with an average launch time of only eight minutes despite challenging conditions. Due to the pandemic, the lifeboat raised £3,000 this year compared to over £110,000 in 2019.

Mike Kane highlighted the RNLI's importance, praising its voluntary crews for maintaining search and rescue services during the pandemic. He noted that personal equipment costs £2,500 per crew member and lifeboats range from £50,000 to up to £2.2 million. The RNLI operated with a budget of over £181 million last year, 94% of which came from donations, but income has been reduced due to the pandemic.

In Northern Ireland, independent lifeboat services like Lough Neagh Rescue and Foyle Search and Rescue are vital. The RNLI's Portaferry station also does a great job. Due to the pandemic, fundraising efforts were severely impacted, leading to financial difficulties for these organisations. Some independents have experienced even greater funding reductions compared to the 20% reduction seen by the RNLI. Girvan emphasised the risks taken by those who volunteer their lives to save others and urged for emergency services at sea to receive sustainable future funding.

He raised awareness of the Hamble independent lifeboat station in his constituency, highlighting its importance and challenges during the pandemic. He mentioned that fundraising efforts were hampered, leading to a significant reduction in income for independent lifeboat stations compared to RNLI, with the local station facing a triple whammy from the Government's stopping of the inshore grant and lack of clarity about rescue boat grants.

She welcomed the debate and highlighted the bravery of lifeguards who saved two young boys in Hastings. She praised the RNLI and independent lifeboats for their ongoing efforts despite pandemic challenges, stressing that these institutions need easier access to support while maintaining independence from Whitehall decision-making.