'A fresh start is needed', Douglas RNLI

Decision to relieve crew of duties 'not taken lightly'

The Douglas branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution says it will invite current operational volunteers to reapply for positions within a new station structure. 

It comes after a post on Facebook overnight suggesting that members were relieved of their duties. 

In a statement, the RNLI confirmed it remains fully committed to Douglas Lifeboat Station and wants to rebuild a strong and sustainable team.

It says the decision has not been taken lightly and the organisation believes a fresh start is needed before it can return to operational readiness. 

Since the arrival of the Trent class lifeboat in August 2025, the RNLI says it's invested in training and support but has not yet been able to return to active service.

A lifeboat can only operate when enough volunteers are fully trained across a range of crew roles, enabling the team to work safely and effectively together.

Those interested in being part of the station's future will be invited to express their interest and discuss opportunities to re-establish their volunteering relationship. 

The RNLI is grateful to all Douglas volunteers for their service and dedication. Our focus is to rebuild Douglas Lifeboat Station on strong foundations and return it to operational readiness. Saving lives at sea requires a high degree of trust and teamwork – the safety and wellbeing of our volunteers, staff and those we rescue remains at the heart of every decision we make.

It further adds that the organisation will continue to assess the most appropriate lifeboat provision for Douglas during a six to eight-week period while feasibility studies take place.

During this period, effective rescue cover will continue to be provided by lifeboat stations at Peel, Port Erin, Ramsey and Port St Mary.