Who needs the RNLI?
0n 2nd June 1999, 73 Darts capsized in Weymouth Bay, throwing 146 people into the water. The lifeboat launched within six minutes of the call out and was at the scene eight minutes later, in time to save 12 racing dinghy sailors. Offshore was developed in response to RNLI supporters who were concerned that those who might one day need to call on the lifeboat service were not supporting the volunteer crews to any greater extent than those who never went near the sea. The figures backed them up. Only 25% of the RNLI’s regular supporters were sea goers; yet most sailors would claim to support the RNLI. This is usually through spontaneous donations via the collection box. They are unaware that income from this source comprises only 2% of the 80m that is required annually to provide them with this level of service. The RNLI needs regular, committed giving to be able to plan with confidence.
