MINISTER LAUNCHES NATIONAL RECRUITMENT DRIVE FOR COASTGUARD VOLUNTEERS



People living in coastal communities across the UK are being asked to get involved and make a difference by becoming Coastguard Rescue Officers. 

Her Majesty's Coastguard is the emergency service responsible for coordinating maritime search and rescue in the UK. One rescue resource that can be called into action at any time, day or night, is a Coastguard Rescue Team. 

Minister of State at the Department for Transport John Hayes MP, has launched the new recruitment campaign this morning for volunteer Coastguard Rescue Officers at Humber Coastguard. The Minister unveiled the new campaign posters and welcomed three new recruits to the Withernsea and Hornsea Coastguard Rescue Teams.

There are 347 teams throughout the UK made up of over 3,500 volunteers but there are always vacancies. Currently there are over 300 vacancies across the UK including 80 in the East of the Country. 

Coastguard rescue officers help rescue people trapped on the coast, be it on cliffs, stuck in mud or in the water and search for missing people. They report and deal with pollution and other hazards and help emergency services and local authorities during emergencies, for example flooding.

Minister of State at the Department for Transport John Hayes MP, said:

“The men and women in the Coastguard Rescue Service voluntarily dedicate themselves to keeping others safe and sound. They work around the clock to protect communities and people around our coastline and the seas which surround our island nation.

“I admire and thank all the highly skilled, courageous and hard working volunteers who devote their effort and expertise to providing this vital service.”

Head of Coastal Operations Charlie Ball said:

“Coastguard Rescue Officers are trained in first aid and a variety of rescue techniques, from water, mud, rope and cliff rescues, to search methods and assisting helicopter operations. Aside from giving your time to a worthy cause, volunteering has a number of key benefits for your career too. It can help you stand out from the crowd, learn practical skills, and will look great on your CV.

“If you’d like to join, we’ll ensure you have regular training, and all we ask in return is that you are situated within 20 minutes of the Coastguard base, and be available to respond at most times.”
Notes to Editors
To request copies of the artwork call Heather Skull in the MCA Press Office on 02380 329401

For further information please contact the Maritime and Coastguard Agency Press Office on 02380 329401. You can also find us on Twitter @MCA_media

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