The UK Maritime Minister, John Hayes, awarded almost £1 million to 66 water rescue charities on 24th January 2017. The funding is the third round of a five-year, £5 million scheme that was part of the 2014 budget. The award supports charities that operate rescue services around the waterways. These lifesavers offer help to people in danger on waterways and during disasters such as flooding.

Hayes explained that often numerous volunteers in water rescue teams across our nation carry out vital operations during emergencies. Also, they ensure that both our inshore and inland waterways are safe. Supporting their valuable and tireless efforts is imperative. He expressed his delight to be able to publicize the most recent round of funding. The grants will ensure that these teams have the equipment and resources they need to provide their 24 hours lifesaving services.”

The award is meant for the purchase of lifeboats and equipment such as safety gear and life jackets. This equipment will help the volunteers to provide quality services to people. Recently, some of the volunteers helped to evacuate the public when storm surge flooding was predicted in Jaywick. However, the Essex coast did not experience flooding as expected.

The rescue services submitted applications for the award to the Department for Transport. A panel of experts from Department of Food and Rural Affairs, Environment, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the Royal Yachting Association, Royal National Lifeboat Institution and representatives from delegated administrations, assessed the submissions.

  • The evaluation was carried out based on the following:
  • The benefits the public will derive from the grant.
  • How the skills of the volunteers and the equipment will result in sustainable benefits.

How the charity organization will use the funding to support lifesaving, flood response, and search and rescue operations.

Bournemouth Lifeguard Corps, based in Durley Chine, received a grant of £12,284 while Solent Rescue in Lepe was given £22,600 from the scheme. Surrey Search and Rescue received £25,000 and Cleveland Mountain Rescue Team £8400. Rest Bay Lifeguard Club was also one of the successful applicants for the funding. A total of 66 water rescue charities received grants that are intended to improve the services of these lifesavers.

The last few years in the UK have experienced more flooding and rescue teams have to train their volunteers to meet up with the demands of rescue operations. Fresh operatives are trained to help evacuate and rescue trapped individuals in the incidence of any flooding. New lifeboats and other equipment are required to ensure the success of search and rescue operations.

The guideline for accepting bids for the grant from UK charities is defined in the Charities Act 2006. Other standards for applying for the award are published on GOV.UK. Also, the £1 million annual support takes care of the administrative operations of the scheme.