RNLI condemns verbal abuse of fundraisers

The RNLI has said abuse of its staff is "completely unacceptable" after two fundraisers were verbally abused over the issue of of migrants being rescued in the English Channel.

The BBC understands the incident, involving one male and one female member of staff from the charity, happened at Westbourne Arcade in Bournemouth on 13 March.

Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale said: "It's yet another example of the unacceptable targeting the RNLI has faced - for simply carrying out its duty to protect lives at sea.".

The RNLI said it supported all staff that have been subjected to abuse.

The Poole-based charity said "We are aware of an incident involving our fundraisers in Bournemouth on Friday 13 March".

"Our interactions with the public remain largely positive, but there are occasions when our volunteers or staff encounter unacceptable behaviour, in common with many other public-facing roles".

"For any of our volunteers or staff to be subjected to abuse is completely unacceptable but it will never distract them from the RNLI's core purpose, which is to save lives at sea."

Labour MP for Bournemouth West Jessica Toale, says she was "appalled and saddened" to hear about the abuse.

"The RNLI is a fantastic charity that relies on public support. Their staff and volunteers work around the clock to keep people safe in our community and across the country," she said.

"We should be proud of the work they do, building on our heritage as a seafaring nation, to save those distressed at sea, whatever their circumstances".

"Their work embodies the values of the Britain I know and love - one that is tolerant, fair and always lends a helping hand to those in need."

It is the latest example of pressure on the Poole-based charity, centring on its role rescuing migrants crossing the Channel in small boats.

It has faced accusations from some on social media, including Nigel Farage, that it was acting as a "taxi service" for people trying to enter the UK illegally.

In July, life boat crews said they made no apologies for rescuing people at sea.

Last month anti-immigration protestors demonstrated outside the RNLI headquarters over the issue, while counter demonstrators from Stand Up To Racism also gathered.

Dorset Police said there had been a "highly visible policing presence" at the protest.

"Officers liaised with the organisers to ensure people could exercise their right to protest legally and safely without causing significant or ongoing disruption and no arrests were made".

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