Full Breakdown
Rising Intimidation of RNLI Volunteers in Portsmouth
By Drooid · · How we work
Background and Context
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), a charity based in Poole, Dorset, has a statutory duty to rescue people in peril at sea. In recent months its volunteers in Portsmouth have become the focus of anti-migration protests after the organisation assisted small-boat migrants crossing the English Channel. The protests have included verbal abuse, threats made over radio during a rescue, and reports of volunteers’ personal details being published online.
Timeline of Recent Incidents
- September 6 – The RNLI brought approximately 120 migrants ashore at Eastney, Portsmouth. Following this operation, volunteers began receiving threats and intimidation from anti-migration protesters.
- October 4 – A mid-Channel rescue involving the RNLI and a French vessel saved 149 migrants, who were taken to Fort Blockhouse and then to a processing centre in Kent.
- October 5 – The RNLI announced that its Portsmouth lifeboat station had resumed normal operations after a brief suspension caused by the protests.
Data and Statistics
Official Statements and Responses
Dame Julia Unwin, chair of the Charity Commission, condemned the “thuggery and intimidation” directed at RNLI volunteers, emphasizing that rescuing people in peril is the charity’s absolute duty. Gerald Vernon-Jackson, former leader of Portsmouth City Council, expressed deep concern about the abuse and called for unequivocal council support for the RNLI. Reform UK’s Hampshire leader George Madgwick reiterated that RNLI crews should never be personally attacked, while also stating he does not agree politically or morally with the charity’s role in the Channel. Emily Strudwick, leader of the Reform UK group on the council, supported the motion to honor the RNLI but sought to remove political commentary, noting that residents have a right to express views about the charity’s involvement in migrant rescues. Simon Bosher, leader of the Conservative group, warned that the motion risked politicising the debate over small-boat crossings.
Criticism and Opposition
Reform UK councillors opposed the motion to grant the RNLI the Freedom of the City, arguing that the organization was being used as a “taxi service” for migrants and that the government, not the RNLI, bears responsibility for the current situation. The Conservative group echoed concerns that the motion repeated earlier debates on migrant crossings.
Impact on Operations and Security Measures
The protests prompted the RNLI to review its security procedures. Volunteers were advised to consider not wearing RNLI-branded clothing in certain circumstances while representing the charity. The temporary suspension of the Portsmouth lifeboat station highlighted the operational risk posed by targeted intimidation. The RNLI reported receiving supportive messages of goodwill alongside the abuse, indicating a mixed community response.
What’s Next
Portsmouth City Council voted to support the motion granting the RNLI Freedom of the City, despite opposition from Reform UK. The Charity Commission’s condemnation is expected to be reiterated at its annual public meeting, where Dame Julia Unwin will address the issue. The RNLI continues to monitor security risks and adjust volunteer protocols as needed.