Penarth RNLI crew members Kath Fisher and Nicola Anderson joined the RNLI’s Women in Search and Rescue (SAR) Training Week at the RNLI College in Poole, Dorset, which started on March 2.
The event brought together women from RNLI lifeboot teams across the UK and Ireland to learn, connect, and grow within the SAR community.
Ms Fisher and Ms Anderson took part in the casualty care course, building on their existing experience and knowledge.
Ms Anderson, who works as a paramedic, said: “We had a fabulous time meeting other women in various roles around the UK and able to share feedback, it was great to learn the RNLI way of doing casualty care at sea.”
Ms Fisher, who recently stepped down from police helicopter duties, said: “It’s important that we have structured ways for women to share their feedback and connect with each other, and events such as the Women in SAR Training Week support this.”
The training included Crew Emergency Procedures in the RNLI’s sea survival pool and command training on a Shannon-class lifeboat.
The programme included a variety of workshops, including networking, confidence-building, and leadership sessions.
This aligned with the International Women’s Day 2026 theme of ‘Give to Gain.’
Jill Hepburn, RNLI head of region in Scotland, said: “International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder that when we give our time, skills, and support to one another, we all gain strength, confidence and opportunity.
“Our Women in SAR Training Week is a brilliant example of this in action — bringing women together to share knowledge, build capability and grow as a supportive, skilled community while developing vital lifesaving expertise.
“At the RNLI, we know that creating a more diverse and inclusive organisation makes us stronger and more effective in our mission to save lives at sea.
“We’re incredibly proud of all our frontline staff and volunteers who continue to give so much in service of others.”
The event also featured talks from key RNLI figures, including chief executive Peter Sparkes, chair Janet Legrand, and Di Bush, the RNLI’s first female full-time coxswain.
Regional events marking International Women’s Day were also held in Swords, Ireland, and Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex.
