Angling Trust joins forces with the Royal Life Saving Society UK to save lives

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) and the Angling Trust have have joined forces in a bid to reduce drownings in our seas and waterways and to help everyone enjoy the water safely.

The strategic partnership will see the two organisations work together to help provide the angling community with lifesaving skills and knowledge.

Based on the Water Accident Incident Database statistics over a five-year period (2017-2021), 45 people lost their lives to drowning while fishing and a further 471 people drowned while walking or running.

The Angling Trust represents anglers of all disciplines, fighting for fish, fishing and the environment. It is recognised by the Government as the National Governing Body for angling in England and partners with Visit Wales and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) to promote fishing in Wales.

RLSS UK Charity Director, Lee Heard said:

“We are thrilled to partner with the Angling Trust to help reach their communities with vital water safety messages. Sharing knowledge, resources and insight, together we can help to ensure that anyone enjoying our canals, rivers and streams has the right skills and knowledge to keep themselves and others safe.”

Mark Owen, Head of Fisheries for the Angling Trust said:

“The safety of the angling community across disciplines from the sea to rivers, canals and lakes is of paramount importance to us at the Angling Trust. We are delighted to announce this partnership with RLSS UK to further ensure that angling can take place safely, benefitting millions of anglers to allow them to enjoy the environment and the health benefits this brings to the community.”

In addition to the work that will take place to reach the angling communities and their families, RLSS UK will also provide bespoke training packages to Angling Trust staff and volunteers to ensure they have the skills and knowledge to know what to do in an emergency if someone is in trouble in the water.

Lee added: “The Trust quite rightly wants to equip its staff and volunteers with lifesaving skills and with roles primarily around water it is key and could save lives. The partnership will mean those within the angling community can continue to enjoy visiting rivers and canals but do so with the right knowledge around water safety to keep themselves and others safe.”

More information about the Royal Life Saving Society UK