The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has launched a comprehensive security review to protect its volunteers after they faced online abuse and intimidation linked to protests in Dover and Portsmouth.
In response to the threats, staff have been instructed to consider avoiding RNLI-branded clothing in certain situations. The move follows an incident on September 6 in Eastney, Langstone Harbour, where approximately 120 migrants were brought ashore after being intercepted off the Isle of Wight. Upon arrival, volunteers encountered blocked roads and demonstrators.
Subsequently, the names and photographs of several crew members were published on social media platforms, with some individuals labeled as traitors. RNLI chief executive Peter Sparkes condemned the behavior, describing the abuse as entirely unacceptable within civilized society.
As a charity dependent on public donations, the RNLI operates many lifeboat stations with attached retail outlets. Recognizing the severity of the threats, the organization has empowered volunteers to make autonomous decisions regarding their safety, including the option to close stations or return home if they feel endangered.
Sussex Police are currently investigating potential criminal offenses related to the harassment. The Home Office stated that social media platforms must enforce their terms of service and act swiftly against discriminatory material. A spokesperson described the targeting of life-saving personnel as appalling, noting that content intended to intimidate or incite violence may constitute a criminal offense.
Sparkes clarified that the charity’s involvement in the Channel crossing incident was requested by HM Coastguard. He highlighted that this was the first time the RNLI had responded to such a large-scale event so far west. Crews from Bembridge and Yarmouth initially responded before being joined by four additional stations due to the presence of protesters in and near the water. During the operation, the RNLI also ensured the safety of anti-migrant demonstrators who were in the sea.
BBC Verify contacted a volunteer known as Neil, whose image was shared online alongside accusations of treason. Neil emphasized that his presence was solely to ensure the safety of protesters in the water, adding, “It would be nice for those people who called me a traitor to know that I’m not a traitor.”
Legendary sailor and RNLI vice-president Sir Robin Knox-Johnston also criticized the abuse, urging those harassing crews to consider how quickly they might demand rescue themselves if they encountered trouble while swimming.
In a message to staff, Sparkes acknowledged that increased media coverage naturally generates questions from the public. He reiterated that the RNLI is mandated to assist anyone in distress in the Channel, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, particularly those in small, overcrowded, and unseaworthy vessels. Once rescued, individuals are transferred to emergency services, police, or Border Force.
According to RNLI data, only a small fraction of lifeboat launches involve Channel distress calls, with Border Force intercepting the majority of small boats. Sparkes encouraged crew members to take proactive safety measures, such as wearing visible identification and challenging individuals without ID, especially those acting suspiciously.
People forget how quickly they might need help at sea. Sir Robin’s point about asking for rescue themselves is spot on.
Shouldn’t the government be prosecuting those blocking roads rather than telling charity staff to hide their uniforms? What is happening here?
I never realized the RNLI was called out for migrant rescues this far west before. That changes how I see their operations.
It is absolutely disgraceful that volunteers saving lives are being called traitors. They are simply doing their job.