Call for more RNLI volunteers in Burry Port, Port Talbot and Barry

At Burry Port a search has been launched not only for new fundraising volunteers but also for launch authorities, inshore lifeboat crew and tractor drivers.

At Port Talbot, the RNLI is appealing for new fundraising volunteers to join its lifesaving crew.

Whilst at Barry Dock, an appeal has been launched to find a Water Safety Officer to aid the charity’s prevention work.

The number of operational volunteers at Burry Port has gradually decreased in recent months. The station is opening its doors to anyone keen to learn new skills and play their part in saving lives at sea.

Just like the charity’s lifeboats, the RNLI’s fundraising team need a dedicated volunteer crew. Volunteers are the heart of the RNLI and make up 95% of its people. They are ordinary people who do extraordinary things and without them, the organisation couldn’t continue to save lives at sea.

But it’s not all about volunteering on lifeboats or at a station, there are many other ways people can give a little or a lot of their time to support the RNLI and make their own lifesaving difference.

Gaynor Davies is a volunteer at Burry Port RNLI. She first joined the RNLI as a shop volunteer, but also supports school visits in addition to her role as banking co-ordinator. She says: “Having taught in the town for many years, visiting the lifeboat station with the school children was always an important part of the school curriculum to emphasise the importance of sea safety and the role of the RNLI within this community. Now I am semi-retired, I decided to give something back to this volunteer service, which plays a vital and respected role within the community. 

“Not only has volunteering given me new skills, it’s also given me a sense of purpose and commitment, in addition to that feel good factor. I get a great sense of pride in being part of a charity with such a strong mission and being valued by a well-organised team. Volunteering is a great way to meet new friend and interact with the public.”

Kirstee Davies, joined Port Talbot RNLI four years ago. She began her fundraising journey working in the shop, joined the fundraising branch, progressed to shop manager and is now also Lifeboat Press Officer.

She says: “I’ve had a wonderful experience volunteering with the RNLI. It’s been amazing to see the entire team flourish at Port Talbot, I’ve met the most amazing people and it’s been a pleasure to volunteer alongside them. It’s been exciting to take on new responsibilities such as growing and managing the shop team and seeing their enjoyment and passion for the RNLI. 

 ”The most humbling thing of all is talking to our supporters and listening to their stories. I am often moved the stories that I hear and it motivates me to be the best volunteer I can possibly be.  If you are passionate and enthusiastic there is a volunteering role for you at the RNLI. It doesn’t matter if you can give two hours a week or 20 hours a week it is all appreciated and helps save lives at sea. ” 

 Nick Evans RNLI Fundraising Partnership Lead said: “Without our volunteers, the RNLI simply would not be able to operate the way it does today.

“With 92% of the RNLI’s income coming from donations, the charity relies on the generosity of supporters and on the dedication of our fundraising volunteers to help raise essential funds.

“Thousands of community fundraising volunteers organise a wide range of activities and events each year, contributing their time, energy and skills to raise money to save lives at sea. Some of our fundraisers have been volunteering for many years while some just join us for a few months in the year depending on what their commitments allow.

“We now really need to bolster that support and grow our volunteer fundraising crew. If you like to have fun, enjoy meeting new people and want to join a motivated and enthusiastic team, we encourage you to find out more and apply. You will learn new skills, gain experience and have the rewarding satisfaction of giving back. The RNLI will also provide all the necessary training and support so you can carry out your chosen role effectively.”

(Lead image: RNLI)