RNLI on the lookout for new lifesavers across Wales

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has launched its search for budding new lifeguards to start their lifesaving career on some of Wales’ most popular beaches, as applications open for 2022.

Recruitment for this season’s team of RNLI beach lifesavers has opened nationally, ready for the summer season. As well as rescuing those in difficulty, the RNLI’s beach lifeguards promote safe behaviour so visitors can return home safely.

The RNLI provide a lifeguard service on 39 of Wales’ busiest beaches. In 2020, the charity’s lifeguards on beaches in South Wales, West Wales and Denbighshire in north Wales responded to 1,046 incidents and helped 2,673 people. Successful applicants will receive world-class lifesaving training, enjoy good rates of pay and develop valuable skills for a future career.

Chris Rigby, RNLI South Pembrokeshire Lead Lifeguard Supervisor said: “Lifeguarding is a really unique and rewarding role and if you’re thinking about applying, I would really recommend you go for it! You can gain some invaluable skills and training whilst working on the beach and being part of an incredible team.

“If you enjoy working in a challenging environment, have the ability to work under pressure and you like helping others, it really is a job you will love”

Vinny Vincent, Swansea Lead Lifeguard Supervisor explains the career development opportunities as a result of lifeguarding: “The skills our lifeguards gain can be an ideal first step towards many career paths or offer invaluable experience for those studying or training in a similar field.

“Beach lifeguarding can be a great opportunity and a very rewarding role. You could change lives – including your own – all whilst enjoying the beach as your office. As long as you can meet the fitness requirements, pass the interview and you are over school leaving age, there can be a role for you as a lifesaver.

“We have lifeguards who have been working for the RNLI for years, both on the beach and as part of our support teams. It really is a great opportunity.”

Margot Lawrence, a RNLI Lifeguard in North Pembrokeshire said: “If you’re thinking about becoming a lifeguard – 100% do it! It is the best job ever.

“I get to work on the beach all summer, I’m outside all summer. I’m with a great team of people that I’ve gotten to know really well these past four years. I’ve been given these invaluable skills, that are just going to help me so much in life.

“My confidence in the water is extremely good. It’s given me the skills and the resources to manage situations under pressure… I would just say I’ve gained so much from lifeguarding.”

To find out more, visit rnli.org/BeALifeguard.

(Lead image: RNLI/Nigel Millard)