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The RNLI is a registered charity funded by people like you to save lives at sea.

Our volunteer crews and lifeguards put their own lives on the line to save others. They provide a 24/7 search and rescue service around the UK and Republic of Ireland and safeguard our beaches in the UK. 

These volunteers come from all walks of life, doing this vital lifesaving work on top of their day jobs. With only 1 in 10 of our new crew members having a professional maritime background, it's essential to give them the best training, and the safest boats and lifesaving equipment. 

And our lifesavers are getting busier every year. Warmer weather and the increasing popularity of watersports mean that people are visiting the beach and taking to the water more often. And our flood rescue team help lots of people who live inland when flooding strikes.

By having fun on SOS day you will be supporting our crews' bravery – and everything you raise will help pay for their training, lifeboats and lifesaving kit. 

Please help our volunteer lifeboat crews and lifeguards continue to help so many people and save so many lives. 

View just a few of our many rescue stories.