11/09/2026
The RNLI has increased security measures after staff and volunteers faced online and in-person abuse, threats, and harassment linked to their role in rescuing people crossing the English Channel. Volunteers have reportedly been advised not to wear RNLI-branded clothing in some circumstances, and police and private security have been involved around locations including the RNLI’s headquarters in Poole.
Below is our advice for the public around online misinformation and bullying:
• Do not share allegations, images or posts about individuals or organisations unless you have checked them against a reliable source.
• Treat emotionally charged content and claims that appear designed to provoke anger with caution.
• Do not join online pile-ons, publish personal information or encourage others to confront staff or volunteers.
• Report threats, targeted harassment and abusive content to the platform; report credible threats to the police.
• Keep screenshots, URLs, usernames and timestamps if you need to make a report.
• Remember that reposting false claims can amplify harm even when you did not create the original content.
I personally condemn the awful behaviour being displayed towards the RNLI and hope that the abuse towards the staff and charity ends soon so they can continue their brilliant work of saving lives at sea. – Ronald Alistair Barr, Cyberhood Watch Dorset ambassador