The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has issued guidance to its volunteers and staff, advising them to refrain from wearing branded clothing due to escalating abuse from anti-migrant protesters. This measure aims to ensure the safety and well-being of the charity’s personnel who have been targeted while assisting migrants arriving by sea.
Escalating Abuse Against Lifesavers
RNLI volunteers and staff have faced ‘unacceptable abuse’ from individuals protesting against migrant arrivals. The incidents have occurred in locations such as Dover and Portsmouth, where the charity’s crews are often involved in rescuing people from small boats in distress. Recent footage shared on social media depicted RNLI volunteers being called ‘traitors’ after helping a dinghy to safety in Portsmouth.
The protests have extended to RNLI facilities themselves. On Wednesday, a small anti-migrant gathering took place at the RNLI College in Poole, Dorset. In response to these developments, an RNLI spokesperson stated on Thursday, “Given the unacceptable abuse our people have faced, and with protest activity taking place at RNLI locations, we have taken action to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of our volunteers and staff.”
Safety Measures and Guidance
In addition to enhancing security at RNLI sites, the charity provided guidance to its personnel earlier this week. This guidance focuses on personal safety, including how to manage potentially challenging interactions with the public and, when deemed appropriate, choosing not to wear RNLI-branded clothing. The RNLI emphasized that the safety of its people is paramount and encouraged them to report relevant incidents internally and, if necessary, to the police.
Volunteers have been explicitly empowered to make decisions that ensure their safety, that of their team or crew, and have been told they can leave or close operations for the day if they feel it is necessary. This directive underscores the seriousness with which the RNLI is treating the safety concerns.
Misinformation and Misunderstanding
Peter Sparkes, the RNLI’s Chief Executive, has previously condemned the abuse directed at volunteers, calling it “wholly unacceptable in a civilised society.” He highlighted that there has been “deliberate misinformation and a misunderstanding about the RNLI – our purpose, our tasking, and particularly our lifesaving work in the Channel.”
One volunteer, identified only as Neil, who was pictured and labelled a traitor on social media, shared his experience. He explained that his crew was tasked with illuminating a beach for the safety of protesters in the water. “We were there, as I said, purely for the safety of the protesters that were in the water,” he stated. “It’d be nice for those people who called me a traitor to know that I’m not a traitor.”
Impact on Volunteers and Operations
Another RNLI volunteer, speaking anonymously to the Press Association, described the situation as both “scary and frustrating.” They noted that crew members are now parking their cars away from the station to avoid their vehicles being targeted and that some volunteers, particularly elderly individuals who staff the RNLI shop, are hesitant to come in due to fear of abuse. The volunteer also revealed they had removed their RNLI crew sticker from their car to prevent local targeting.
“It’s never been this bad and never felt this aggressive, where they actually want to publish your photo, and then list your address,” the volunteer added. “They’re not just shaming you but actually encouraging a target on you.”
RNLI’s Mandate and Commitment
The RNLI operates under a mandate from HM Coastguard to provide assistance when alerted to incidents in the water. This includes responding to distress calls and carrying out rescues, often in challenging conditions.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Mr. Sparkes reiterated the charity’s stance: “Sadly, as a result, some of our volunteers and staff have been the subject of online and, in the worst cases, physical abuse. The RNLI’s people represent the very best in our society; they selflessly give up their time to keep others safe. Yet they and their families are being threatened by those who would hide behind a balaclava or a keyboard. Their action, in contrast, is wholly unacceptable in a civilised society. We will take whatever steps we can to care for and protect our people and their families.”
Police Response and Support
Dorset Police confirmed they are working with partners, including the RNLI, to ensure adequate security measures are in place where necessary. A spokeswoman stated, “As with any location where we receive reports of protest activity or criminal activity taking place, we will respond accordingly.” This indicates a commitment from law enforcement to address any criminal aspects arising from the protests and to support the safety of RNLI personnel.
The RNLI continues its vital lifesaving work, emphasizing that the safety and well-being of its dedicated volunteers and staff remain a top priority amidst these challenging circumstances.
