Key facts
- RNLI volunteers are advised to consider not wearing branded clothing and to close stations if they feel endangered due to far-right backlash.
- The RNLI is increasing security around its bases on the south coast of England.
- Baseless rumors circulating claim the RNLI houses asylum seekers or moves them to secret locations after rescues.
- RNLI chief executive Peter Sparkes condemned threats against volunteers and refuted these rumors.
- Channel rescues represent a small fraction of the RNLI's total operations, accounting for 1.2% of launches in 2025.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is enhancing security measures for its volunteers and facilities following a significant backlash from far-right groups concerning its role in rescuing asylum seekers in the English Channel. Volunteers have been advised by the charity's leadership to consider not wearing RNLI-branded clothing if they feel it could put them at risk, and they have been empowered to close shops or lifeboat stations if they perceive a danger.
Security has been visibly increased around RNLI bases on England's south coast, with police and private guards monitoring some areas. Barriers have been erected around a memorial sculpture and a rose bed at the charity's headquarters in Poole, and a viewing platform has been closed off. The RNLI has vowed to continue its rescue operations in the Channel, despite what it describes as "baseless" rumors and abuse directed at its staff and volunteers, including accusations of housing asylum seekers or moving them to secret locations.
RNLI chief executive Peter Sparkes has condemned the threats and rumors, emphasizing the charity's long-standing commitment to saving lives at sea without judgment. Data indicates that Channel rescues for small boats constitute a small portion of the RNLI's overall work, with only 109 launches in 2025, representing 1.2% of its total operations. The charity operates under international maritime law, responding to distress calls coordinated by HM Coastguard.