RNLI Suspends Portsmouth Services After Volunteers Abused for Rescuing Migrants
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution has paused operations in Portsmouth after far-right activists harassed and abused volunteers for saving migrants in the English Channel. The charity said the safety of its crews is paramount.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution has suspended its services in Portsmouth after volunteers were subjected to abuse and harassment for rescuing migrants in the English Channel. The charity said the decision was taken to protect its crews, who have been labelled «traitors» online by far-right activists.
The abuse escalated in recent weeks as small boats carrying asylum seekers continued to cross the Channel. RNLI volunteers, who are called out to assist anyone in distress at sea regardless of nationality or legal status, became targets of a coordinated online campaign. The charity confirmed that the safety of its volunteers is its first priority and that services would remain paused while the situation is assessed.
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, earlier this month condemned the abuse as «appalling». He praised the crews as heroes and said it was unacceptable that they should face intimidation for carrying out their humanitarian duty. His intervention came after several RNLI stations reported threatening messages and hostile confrontations.
The RNLI has a long-standing tradition of saving lives at sea without prejudice. Its volunteers are not responsible for immigration policy, yet they have been drawn into a heated political debate about border control. The charity has repeatedly stated that it responds to mayday calls from anyone in danger, in line with international maritime law.
The suspension in Portsmouth has raised concerns about the broader impact on maritime safety. Local residents and community leaders have expressed support for the volunteers, warning that the pause could put lives at risk. The RNLI has not set a date for resuming services, saying it will continue to monitor the situation and work with local authorities.
The abuse reflects a wider trend of far-right agitation targeting humanitarian organisations. Similar incidents have been reported in other coastal towns, where volunteers have been accused of aiding illegal immigration. The RNLI has urged the public to respect its neutrality and to recognise the distinction between rescue operations and political disputes.
As the debate over Channel crossings continues, the charity faces the challenge of maintaining its lifesaving mission while ensuring the safety of its people. The Portsmouth suspension serves as a stark reminder of how political tensions can disrupt essential public services and endanger those who serve them.
