Flint RNLI Volunteer joins women’s search and rescue event

A volunteer from Flint RNLI has taken part in a national training programme designed to support and inspire women in search and rescue (SAR) roles.

Carly McCarthy, who has volunteered at the station for a decade, joined the RNLI’s Women in SAR Training Week at the RNLI College in Poole, Dorset, ahead of International Women’s Day.

The five-day event brought together around 80 women from across the RNLI, spanning lifeboat crews and lifeguard teams from the UK and Ireland.

Participants engaged in intensive training exercises, including sea survival drills and lifeboat operations, alongside leadership and confidence-building workshops.

Reflecting on the experience, Carly McCarthy said: “I was delighted to be chosen to represent Flint at this event. It has been a fantastic opportunity to connect with other women volunteers across the UK, share experiences, and gain valuable knowledge.”

Carly, who became a Helm last year—meaning she now leads crews on service calls—spoke about the importance of breaking down traditional barriers in search and rescue roles.

“Historically, operational roles like lifeboat crew have often been seen as roles for men. However, I hope we continue to break boundaries and demonstrate that women are equally deserving of a place on the lifeboat. By challenging these perceptions, we can inspire future generations of lifesavers to follow in our footsteps,” she said.

The RNLI has been working towards greater diversity in its ranks, encouraging more women to take up roles in both lifeboat and lifeguard teams. Jill Hepburn, RNLI Head of Region in Scotland, praised the initiative.

“The RNLI’s Women in SAR Training Week has been a fantastic opportunity for women to come together, share knowledge and grow stronger as a community, all while learning new lifesaving skills,” she said.

“We’re working hard to create a more diverse RNLI and a crucial part of that is encouraging women into search and rescue roles. We’re incredibly proud of all our volunteers, lifeguards and staff who continue to support our mission to save lives at sea.”

The RNLI continues to encourage volunteers from all backgrounds to join its lifesaving efforts. More information about volunteering opportunities can be found at rnli.org/support-us/volunteer.