NCI by its very nature is labour intensive. Each station is
responsible for raising its own running and administrative expenses and
contributes towards a Central Fund. Where possible a Station is allowed
to assist their watch-keepers with travelling expenses in case of need,
but the vast majority of volunteers give of their time freely and
without the thought of recompense, knowing that they are playing a vital
role in the safety of the public.
No Government funding is received and is entirely dependent on the
generosity of public subscription and the sponsoring of companies.
Wherever possible they attend Boat Shows and other similar events, both
to spread the word and to raise funds. A range of promotional goods and
‘logoed’ merchandise is available for this purpose. In addition a
support branch called ‘SHOREWATCH’ exists for those who are unable
to keep a watch but wish to support the work they do. Shorewatch members
receive a regular updating newsletter as well as preferential rates for
promotional goods. They also have the sure knowledge that they are
personally making a contribution to safety of those at sea or on the
coastal footpaths at heart.
Several companies help NCI either with funding sponsorship or in
kind. Furuno, the Electronics Manufacturer provides ex-hire radar
sets to their stations as they become available, Seacom Electronics
have been of great assistance as have some of the major store chains
such as Homebase and numerous smaller firms who support their
local stations. The National Trust have been very generous in
arranging peppercorn rents for stations on their land, and Navigators
& General the marine insurance firm generously funded the
renovation of the Portland Bill Station whilst American Express
has also contributed. NCI are very grateful to all these public-spirited
firms who appreciate the vital work that they do.
To renovate and set up a new Station requires about £5,000 since
most of the ex-CG Stations have been vandalised over the years. Once
established, a Station requires about £3,000 a year to cover its basic
expenses, but again one must ask "What price can one put on a saved
life?" Over the few years that NCI has been operating many lives
have been directly saved as a result of an NCI Watchkeepers vigilance
reporting to HM Coastguard and on countless other occasions they have
assisted the Agency in more minor incidents. It is therefore very clear
that all efforts must be made to ensure that the general public and
marine industry are aware of the existence of NCI and responsibilities
that the Institution has undertaken together with the need fro serious
support on a long-term basis.
