RNLI volunteers call for 'honest reflection' over 'decade of decline'

'Voice of the crew' highlighted in five-page statement

Douglas RNLI volunteers are calling for ‘honest reflection’ over what they’ve described as a ‘decade of decline’.

In a statement from past and present members - described as the ‘voice of the crew’ - they’ve described the past few years as ‘the death of a thousand cuts’.

The five-page document sets out what the volunteers describe as ‘the background’ to the current situation.

It comes after operational volunteers were told they’ll have to reapply for positions within a new station structure.

The RNLI says it remains fully committed to Douglas Lifeboat Station - you can find out more HERE.

John Moss has this report:

Volunteers say since 2022 a pattern of ‘delayed infrastructure investment, aging lifeboats and reactive decision-making’ has continued.

They also dispute that ‘internal disputes’ are responsible for the station’s current position adding the crew remain ‘united’.

“People have different personalities and opinions but support one another and remain committed to saving lives at sea. The problems we’ve experienced have largely been beyond the control of the volunteer crew.”

In conclusion the volunteers say they hope that ‘lessons will be learned’ and Douglas will once again have the facilities, equipment and support necessary to provide the level of lifesaving service Douglas and the Isle of Man deserves.

Statement from the RNLI

'The RNLI remains fully committed to Douglas Lifeboat Station and to securing a long-term solution that provides a sustainable lifesaving service for the future. We recognise the pause to operations is an unsettling time for the station. However, the safety of our volunteers, staff and those we rescue remains our highest priority.

'We firmly believe a fresh start is necessary to create the foundations needed for Douglas Lifeboat Station to return to service. This is not a decision that has been taken lightly.

'We recognise that securing a long-term solution has taken longer than anyone would have wished and thank the crew for their patience and resilience during this time. The historic recommendation was that a Shannon class lifeboat be allocated to Douglas to replace the Mersey. However, several attempts to deliver the infrastructure required to support a Shannon in Douglas were unsuccessful. Despite significant effort and investment, we were unable to identify a viable site for operational and financial reasons.

'As a result, and given the time that had passed since the original Shannon allocation, the Trent class all-weather lifeboat was introduced last year to provide an effective bridging capability between the Mersey class and the future lifeboat provision for Douglas.

'Since the Trent's arrival, the RNLI has invested significantly in training, development and operational support. However, the station has not yet been able to return to active service and has not been operational since November 2025.

'A lifeboat station can only operate safely when sufficient volunteers are fully trained and competent across a range of critical crew roles, enabling teams to work effectively together in demanding and high-risk situations. To secure the station's future and restore full operational capability, decisive action is required.

'The new facility at Manx Marine provides a strong foundation as we look ahead and develop a new station structure. It further demonstrates our commitment to delivering a resilient and effective lifesaving service for the Douglas community.

'We will continue to support volunteers through training and development as work progresses to strengthen the team and restore service.

'The RNLI is grateful to all Douglas volunteers for their service and dedication. Saving lives at sea requires a high degree of trust, teamwork and operational competence. Our focus is on building a strong and sustainable future for Douglas Lifeboat Station while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved remains at the heart of our decision-making.

'The RNLI will continue to assess the most appropriate lifeboat provision for Douglas during a six to eight-week period while feasibility studies are completed.

'During this time, effective rescue cover will continue to be provided by neighbouring RNLI lifeboat stations at Peel, Port Erin, Ramsey and Port St Mary, ensuring continued lifesaving capability around the Isle of Man.'