Launching our 2022 Appeal

Building on the success of our 150^th anniversary appeal, The Lifeboat Fund is returning to a previous theme of preventing drowning for our new appeal in 2022. Funds raised during the appeal will go towards the following:

• Supporting projects at RNLI lifeboat stations at Whitby, Broughty Ferry, Blackpool and Tower on the River Thames, to update and build new lifesaving facilities.

• Continuing support for education projects to reduce the high instances of drowning in Bangladesh.

The improvements and development of facilities at the four lifeboat stations for RNLI lifesavers using the funding from this appeal will make a huge difference. It will provide RNLI volunteers and crew with the environment they need to maintain a world-class lifesaving service and continue to launch to those in trouble at sea.

The SeaSafe project in Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh has been supported by The Lifeboat Fund in the past and will continue to be through this year’s appeal. The project aims to reduce drowning at one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bangladesh. It includes an all-year round lifeguard service and swim survival sessions for children. The project makes a significant positive impact in preventing people from drowning.

Chair of The Lifeboat Fund, Sir Jeremy Fleming, said:

‘I’m pleased to be announcing the start of our 2022 fundraising appeal. The diversity of the projects reflects our geographical presence in the Civil Service. The challenges of the pandemic made us focus on how we can adapt for the future. Our trustees and fundraisers have worked hard to reposition the charity, building on past successes and gaining new supporters. I am delighted the RNLI regards us as the principal conduit for civil servants supporting its work, and I look forward to some great fundraising efforts throughout the year.’

Chief Executive of the RNLI, Mark Dowie, said:

‘I am extremely grateful The Lifeboat Fund has chosen to support some of our busiest lifeboat stations in the UK and will continue its support to our drowning prevention project in Bangladesh. The Civil Service Lifeboat Fund’s fundraising activities are vital to our lifesaving work, helping to keep our volunteers safe when they risk their lives to assist others. Supporting The Lifeboat Fund charity is the best way for civil and public servants to help save lives at sea. I encourage all civil servants, both serving and retired, to show their support for the RNLI by donating to their very own Lifeboat Fund charity.’

Founded in 1866, The Lifeboat Fund is the RNLI's longest-standing contributor and its single biggest donor. For the 150^th anniversary appeal, The Lifeboat Fund raised money for “Civil Service 53”, a Shannon class all-weather lifeboat to be named “Duke of Edinburgh”, which will be going into service at Wells-next-the-Sea later in 2022.