RNLI’s lifeboat museum in Poole has closed temporarily after “several incidents” of anti-immigration protestors verbally abusing its volunteers.
In a statement on social media yesterday, the Poole Old Lifeboat Museum said: “It is with regret that we have to close the museum until the protests cease.”
An RNLI spokesperson today said the museum was closed as a precaution and is expected to reopen tomorrow.
Meanwhile, RNLI has suggested that its staff and volunteers should choose not to wear the charity’s branding in some situations due to the targeting from protestors.
“Given the unacceptable abuse our people have faced, and with protest activity taking place at RNLI locations, we have taken action to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of our volunteers and staff,” a spokesperson for the charity said.
“As well as enhancing security at RNLI locations, we issued guidance to our people earlier this week on how to keep themselves safe.
“This guidance included how to manage potentially challenging interactions with members of the public, and where appropriate, choosing not to wear RNLI branded clothing.
“Our people have been reminded that their safety comes first, and they are encouraged to report relevant incidents internally and, where appropriate, to the police.”
Earlier this week, RNLI’s chief executive Peter Sparkes said the charity’s volunteers and staff had been the subject of “online and, in the worst cases, physical abuse” following the spread of “deliberate misinformation and a misunderstanding” of its work.
A petition in support of RNLI’s volunteers and staff was launched and has now garnered over 120,000 signatures.
Now the charity has said it has taken extra steps to protect its workers and volunteers.
RNLI has previously faced scrutiny from anti-immigration protestors for the role it plays in rescuing migrants who encounter difficulties at sea when attempting to cross the English Channel in small boats to reach the UK.
It has always defended its position as a humanitarian charity dedicated to saving all lives at sea, irrespective of nationality.
