October 14th, 2024.



Fi McColgan and Russell Bedford have successfully passed out as volunteer Launch Authorities at Newhaven RNLI, after completing training on station at Newhaven, and through the RNLI training team's online workshops.

Launch Authorities are are responsible for the lifeboat launch decision, ensuring that the most suitable lifeboat is selected, and the crew is tasked appropriately. No boat can be launched on a shout or exercise without a launch authority’s agreement. They also perform a vital role in the management of the lifeboat station, ensuring boats and equipment are maintained in a constant state of readiness to respond.

Fi McColgan said: "Working offshore emphasises the importance for me of keeping seafarers safe, and respecting the water. When I saw this opportunity, I jumped at it. All our training and support was excellent. The crew at Newhaven RNLI have serious experience with the charity which they are eager to share."

The pass out involved an hour-long practical exam going through all aspects of risk assessment and the decision making around launching the lifeboats at the request of HM Coastguard. It also included a scenario to demonstrate decision making through a boat tasking and launch.

Russ Bedford added: "The training provided by the RNLI at Newhaven and remotely by the RNLI's training team was excellent. The volunteers at Newhaven RNLI have a wealth of valuable knowledge that was passed down during training. The best part of my volunteering so far was when the pager went off at the station, seeing the crew arrive in real time and go on a shout."


Photo credit: RNLI/Sam Carragher