RNLI APPOINT REGIONAL EDUCATION OFFICER’S

Based in the regional offices in Belfast, Bristol, Cardiff, Dun Laoghaire, Edinburgh, Hadleigh, Harrogate, London, Manchester, Uckfield, the regional education officers (REOs) will be responsible for co-ordinating the RNLI's involvement with young people across the region.

Their work will include the development of an education programme for schools and youth groups which will raise awareness of the work of the RNLI, as well as trying to reduce the number of accidents and deaths in young people on or near the water.

Last year, over 1000 young people were involved in incidents on or by the sea.

The regional education officers will be able to provide information about the education resources available, and will call on local volunteers to assist with various activities such as events and visits to schools and youth groups. The programme also aims to increase the number of opportunities for youth visits to lifeboat stations.

Youth education manager Anne Millman says: "It is vital that young people have a good understanding of the work of the RNLI and the importance of water safety. The new regional education officer will give us a greater opportunity to allow young people to become practically involved with us."

These appointments follow on from the successful pilot of three regional education officers last year.