The Royal National Lifeboat Institute has been forced to defend its work saving lives abroad after a Mail Online article prompted outrage on social media.
RNLI was trending last night after a story by Michael Powell for the Mail on Sunday highlighted how “3.3 million a year” was spent on projects in Tanzania and Bangladesh.
Many responded by saying their support for the charity has ended, even though the outgoings account for just 2 per cent of its annual expenditure.
Tory MP Nigel Evans was quoted in the piece saying it was “risking the reputation of the charity”, and many others echoed his angst.
A spokesperson for the RNLI said in response: “We don’t operate RNLI lifeboat or lifeguard services overseas – instead, we support the work of partners to build local capability.
“Our international drowning prevention work currently includes educating children in water safety and survival swimming; training personnel in lifeguarding, search and rescue and lifesaving leadership skills, and international advocacy to champion the drowning prevention cause at a global level.
“Our aim is to increase the number of people who can make a difference to the safety of others in their communities, and share their skills so the lifesaving legacy continues, as well as to call for greater awareness, resources and action at a global level.”
