RNLI reports ‘significant’ donations boost after being targeted by far right over small boats
Summary
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has received a large increase in donations after far-right groups protested against its rescue of asylum seekers crossing the English Channel. RNLI volunteers faced abuse, and several police forces increased security around the charity’s sites. The RNLI said it only acts when asked by the coastguard and emphasized that rescue work for small boats is a very small part of its overall missions.Key Facts
- The RNLI rescued a dinghy carrying asylum seekers near Portsmouth, triggering protests by far-right groups.
- Volunteers have faced both online and physical abuse, with some shops and lifeboat stations closing due to safety concerns.
- Police in Dorset, Hampshire, and Sussex have increased patrols and investigated threats linked to the protests.
- The RNLI’s vice-president said the charity only saves lives at sea when asked by the coastguard and is not responsible for migration policy.
- Donations to the RNLI have significantly increased despite calls by protesters to stop giving money.
- The RNLI warned volunteers they might avoid wearing branded clothing for their safety and can close facilities if threatened.
- Only 1.2% of the RNLI’s rescue missions in 2025 involved small boats in the Channel, while UK Border Force handled the majority of migrant rescues.
- The RNLI denied unfounded rumors about secretly housing asylum seekers or transporting migrants.
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