NCI and Coastguard Team Up in Landmark UK Coastwatch Trial
National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) volunteers spent six months sharing lookout duties with the Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team at Beachfield Road. This first-of-its-kind UK trial tested how closer teamwork could boost coastal monitoring, especially over busy summer weekends and bank holidays from April to September 2022.
Trial a Success – More Partnerships on the Horizon
After a recent review, both HM Coastguard and NCI hailed the trial a hit. They agreed NCI volunteers “add value to the search and rescue family” by supporting rescue efforts.
Chris Enright, HM Coastguard Divisional Commander: “Although separate organisations, HM Coastguard and National Coastwatch share a common goal – that of ensuring the safety of people at sea and at the coast – and exploring how we can work together more closely seemed a great idea in principle. I’m delighted the trial was a success, and our shared view is that this could be rolled out to other suitable locations across the UK.”
HM Coastguard teams are now evaluating other stations with unused lookout facilities to find good spots for new local partnerships.
NCI Steps Up to Boost Coastal Safety
Chris Aps, NCI Station Development Trustee: “I am very pleased that our trained NCI Watchkeepers will soon be able to man other Coastguard station lookouts where there are operational coastguard rescue teams. We have long felt that we could do more as an organisation to help in safety at the coast. Fulfilling a role like this can only boost search and rescue responses.”
“The NCI is thrilled by the promise this initiative brings and really looks forward to working more closely with HM Coastguard.”
This partnership promises a sharper, quicker coastal rescue response, strengthening safety for all who visit Britain’s shores.
