Become a volunteer

RLSS

Patrol times

Weekends including bank holidays, 1000-1800, beginning of May through to the end of September.

Training

Training is every Tuesday evening throughout the year, as well as during our patrolling weekends.

In our off season we train at the swimming pool working towards the RLSS Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ), first aid and our in-house beach lifesaver award.

During our patrol season we train at our HQ on Southsea seafront, awarding RLSS NVBLQ, life support and training on our rescue boat/RWC, vehicles as well as VHF radio training, first aid and local knowledge.

What do I need to join?

We Hold new member introductory sessions on Tuesday training nights once a month.
Once you have filled out the membership form the Membership Officer will invite you to the next available session.

You do not need to be pre-qualified or experienced.

The club can take and train anybody who is over the age of 13, enthusiastic, driven and willing to learn.

For those with previous knowledge and experience, training can be tailored to build on your existing skills.

If you wish to become a lifeguard, we ask that you can swim 200 metres (8-25 metre lengths) in five minutes.
Do not worry if you can’t meet the swim time then, we may be able to help you to improve your stroke and stamina, or focus your training into land-based activities such as first aid, life support, coordinating operations, operating our 4-4 vehicle or fundraising operations.

If you are over 16 years old, we will organise for you to apply for a DBS as part of your application.

Once we have received this, your membership fee and timed swim your application to join will go for approval with our committee.

Membership costs

Joining fee is currently £40 (This is a single payment at the time of application and membership renewal onwards is free).

There is a yearly training subscription which can be paid in 3 ways:-

  • Option 1: £80 per year payable on the 1st April.
  • Option 2: £22 per quarter payable on the 1st April, 1st July, 1st October and 1st January.
  • Option 3: £8 per month payable on the 1st of the month.

Operational

Operate flexible hours at the beach as lifeguards, crew to Portsea Rescue 1, crew to Portsea Rescue ski, foot patrol crew, vehicle and much more.
Our lifesaving work is essential.
You don’t have to be a beach lifeguard or boat crew to be operational.
Provide a vital link in the chain by launching and recovering the lifeboat, water rescue craft, managing the station and providing first aid.
Operational membership is available from the age of 16 years and over.

Cadet

Cadet is open to anyone 13 to 18 years of age.
Cadets are included in training and operational membership, but will need to be 16 to gain RLSS Beach Lifeguard and operate on our boat/RWC.
Cadets train every Tuesday evening and can attend weekend and bank holiday duties.
You will be fully supervised by our Duty Officers in a safe and engaging environment.
This is a great way to start your journey in lifesaving whilst meeting new people and having lots of fun.

If you wish to contact us about one off training in beach lifeguard, first aid, lifesaving or any other training and do not wish to join the club please email membership@portsmouthlifeguards.org.

More information is available in the welcome pack or fill in the form request at the bottom to register your interest.

Please read the Portsmouth & Southsea Voluntary Lifeguards welcome pack.

Welcome pack

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Data privacy policy


What your full name?
What your date of birth?
Are you local, what your address? Please include Postcode.
What the best email to contact you on?
Tell us a bit about yourself, and why you like to join us.