RNLI supports lifesaving leaders from across the world and shares its vital knowledge

Group shot of delegates on the Leaders in Lifesaving course along with Peter Sparkes, Chief Executive of the RNLI © RNLI

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) recently held its annual Leaders in Lifesaving course at the charity's headquarters in Poole, Dorset. Drowning prevention experts from across the globe attended the course to share lifesaving knowledge.

Since 2012, over 100 delegates from more than 40 organisations around the world have participated in the RNLI's Leaders in Lifesaving course. The RNLI developed the intensive course in response to requests for assistance from international lifesaving organisations.

Dave Whiddon, Senior International Programme Manager at the RNLI, said: 'It was fantastic to host another Leaders in Lifesaving course at the RNLI college, with leaders from seven different countries attending including Bangladesh, Philippines, Cambodia, Thailand, India, Nepal and the UK.

'We want to share vital knowledge that will help leaders from across the world increase their skills in leadership, improve their understanding of drowning prevention and build a greater understanding of technical lifesaving skills. The more we share our drowning prevention knowledge, the more lives we can save.'

During the one week-long course, which started on the 30 September, participants had the opportunity to meet with experts from key lifesaving organisations in the UK.

The course covered several areas including the use of data and risk mapping, advocacy, research and technical solutions. It also covered water safety campaigns and the importance of working in partnerships.

Bhagabati Sedain Silwal from Tribhuvan University Padmakanya Multiple Campus and Nexus Institute of Research and Innovation (NIRI) in Nepal said: 'This course has been a great opportunity. I learned about best practise in drowning prevention in India and Bangladesh and I can adopt these learnings in my own country'

During the course, RNLI facilitators provided sessions in leading yourself, leading your teams, and leading your organisation.