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Harassment of RNLI volunteers in the United Kingdom

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2026-09-17 10:02 UTC → 2026-09-18 10:08 UTC · added removed

RNLI volunteers in the United Kingdom have faced significant harassment, including online abuse and physical threats, following anti-migrant protests. The hostility intensified after lifeboat crews rescued approximately 120 people from a small boat near the Isle of Wight, leading protesters in Portsmouth to label the rescuers “traitors” ‘traitors’ and “collaborators.” ‘collaborators.’ As the situation escalated, protesters leaked the personal information and home addresses of individual volunteers. In response to these safety concerns, the RNLI increased security measures and advised volunteers to avoid wearing branded clothing in public. Chief Executive Peter Sparkes condemned the behavior, describing it as “wholly unacceptable” ‘wholly unacceptable’ and driven by misinformation regarding the charity’s lifesaving mission. By 10 September, the RNLI temporarily closed its Portsmouth lifeboat station due to the intense harassment. The organization has implemented contingency arrangements through other stations to maintain search and rescue coverage. Additionally, the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) reported that it has also been targeted by demonstrators due to online confusion between the two organizations. By 17 September, the RNLI clarified that while it responds to anyone in danger at sea regardless of nationality, only 1.2% of its 2025 launches were to small boats in the Channel. The charity noted that recent protests have generated ‘deliberate misinformation and a misunderstanding’ regarding its humanitarian role. The RNLI also revealed that its crews have previously had to stand by to ensure the safety of the protesters themselves when demonstrators entered the water to film rescue operations.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-18 10:08 UTC Harassment of RNLI volunteers in the United Kingdom
  2. 2026-09-17 10:02 UTC Harassment of RNLI volunteers in the United Kingdom

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