RNLI Volunteers Face Unacceptable Abuse, Chief Says
BBC News reports on the abuse directed towards RNLI volunteers following anti-migrant protests over the weekend.
Chief Executive’s Statement
Peter Sparkes, RNLI chief executive, condemned the "unacceptable" online and physical abuse faced by staff and volunteers. He attributed the abuse to "deliberate misinformation" and "a misunderstanding" about the charity. Sparkes highlighted the threats from individuals hiding behind balaclavas or keyboards.
Protest Events
On Sunday, police in Portsmouth confronted demonstrators who blocked roads to prevent a group of 140 people, assisted by the RNLI, from reaching the Eastney Landing ferry port area. Footage emerged on social media showing volunteers labelled as "traitors." A similar protest occurred the previous day in Dover, involving hundreds of masked protesters who brought the port to a standstill.
Digital Secretary’s Response
Lisa Nandy, Digital Secretary, discussed with tech firms the sharing of personal information, such as names, addresses, and photographs, of RNLI staff and volunteers online, which she deemed "disturbing." She expressed concern over posts that could put individuals at risk through "doxxing."
RNLI’s Mission and Rescue Work
Sparkes described illegal migration as a polarizing issue and urged people to be mindful of misinformation. He emphasized the RNLI’s role in preventing drowning, appealing for support and understanding towards their vital lifesaving work. Of the 9,058 RNLI lifeboat launches in 2025, 109 were for those in distress in the Channel.
