Government drops plans to stop paying Coastguard volunteers
Summary
The UK government has stopped plans to end payments to volunteer Coastguard Rescue Officers (CROs) who respond to emergencies and train. After many volunteers threatened to quit, the government said it will consider other ways to fairly reward the volunteers and maintain their involvement.Key Facts
- Coastguard volunteers in the UK currently receive a minimum payment of about £33 for emergency call-outs or training.
- The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) wanted to switch to an expenses-only payment model.
- This change followed a court ruling that volunteers are legally considered "workers" when on duty.
- A government survey showed that up to 56% of volunteers in some regions might quit if payments stop.
- The UK transport minister, Keir Mather, announced plans to pause the payment changes after hearing volunteers’ concerns.
- More than 3,500 volunteers help with rescues along the UK coast, including difficult situations like mud, water, and cliffs.
- Parliament members from different parties supported keeping payments to protect public safety.
- Volunteers have training standards similar to police, fire, and ambulance services.
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