THE RNLI's campaign to recruit lifeguards on Wirral during the summer peak season continues.

The charity is looking for people to join the team for patrols on New Brighton, Plateaux, West Kirby, Moreton, Leasowe Bay and Harrison Drive beaches.

Lifeguards not only rescue those in difficulty in the water, but also provide vital beach first-aid and safety advice to ensure visitors can return home safely.

In 2022, RNLI lifeguards provided patrols and responded to more than 18,000 incidents, helping more than 24,000 people in need, saving 117 lives.

Last summer, lifeguards rescued stricken swimmers from powerful rip currents, saved children being blown offshore in inflatables, came to the aid of paddleboarders and gave lifesaving CPR on beaches among the thousands of incidents they attended.

Successful applicants will receive world-class lifesaving training, enjoy good rates of pay, the possibility of flexible working patterns and develop valuable skills for a future career.

Lucy Tilston, lead lifeguard supervisor for Wirral, said: "To anyone thinking of becoming a lifeguard, just do it.

"It's the best job, it’s so rewarding, and it keeps getting better – there’s so much opportunity for growth in the role.

"I love being outside on the beach all summer and sharing my knowledge with people.

"It often doesn’t feel like a job because I enjoy it so much, which is something a lot of lifeguards say."  

Lee Fisher, lifeguard experience manager said: "Beach lifeguarding is a great opportunity and a very rewarding role that changes lives – including your own – all whilst enjoying the beach as your office.

"Our lifeguards range from teenagers all the way up to lifesavers in their 70s, as long as you meet the fitness requirements and you are over 16 years old, there could be a role for you.

"The job also has great paths for progression - we have lifeguards who have been working for the RNLI for years, both on the beach and as part of our support teams.

"The skills you gain can make an ideal first step towards many careers. It’s a great opportunity whether you want a rewarding summer job or to pursue a career in lifesaving."

To find lifeguard vacancies in your area, click here

The fitness requirements for lifeguards are:

  • Complete a 400m pool swim in under 7½ minutes, the first 200m of which must be completed in under 3½ minutes.
  • Complete a 25m pool swim underwater and a 25m surface swim consecutively in under 50 seconds.
  • Complete a 200m beach run in under 40 seconds.

Find out more about becoming a lifeguard at rnli.org/BeALifeguard.