New shop volunteers needed to help save lives at sea in Dun Laoghaire RNLI

(Pictured above, Brian Costello, Deputy Shop Manager at Dun Laoghaire RNLI)

The RNLI is looking for new shop volunteers to join its lifesaving team at Dun Laoghaire.

Just like the charity’s lifeboats, the RNLI’s retail team need a dedicated volunteer crew -people of all ages and abilities – who can give a little time to help save lives at sea.

Brian Costello is the Deputy Shop Manager at Dun Laoghaire RNLI.

“I joined the team at Dun Laoghaire three and a half years ago after I retired, Brian explains.

“I have sailed out of Dun Laoghaire for over 30 years and I always knew I could rely on the RNLI if I needed to.

“When I retired, I wanted to give something back.

“I have seen accidents happen at sea and know how difficult it can be to even get someone back into a sailboat.

“You do need a back up at sea, you don’t expect to ever have to use it, but it is always reassuring to know the RNLI is there.”

As for what he finds most rewarding about being an RNLI volunteer, Brian says: “Apart from the fact that the shop generates significant funds for the charity, I enjoy the fun from interacting with people.

“So many people that we encounter through the shop have a story to tell of how their uncle or father was rescued or how their mother always told them to please support the RNLI.

“When you finish a shift, it is those interactions and the stories you remember.

“You can gain some invaluable skills and training whilst volunteering at a shop and you become part of an incredible team.

“If you enjoy meeting and interacting with people, are confident in handling money, it really is a role you will love.”

RNLI shops started out as simple cake stalls run by volunteers to raise money for their local lifeboat station.

“These stalls started selling commemorative RNLI products in around 1920 and quickly moved on to selling souvenirs and Christmas cards with all profits helping save lives at sea,” Pauline McGann RNLI Community Manager explained.

“Today, we have over 170 RNLI shops around the coast and inland, all of which are still run by our dedicated volunteers.

“They attract many visitors throughout the year and stock an excellent range of unique souvenirs and gifts.

“The pandemic unfortunately hit our shops hard as they closed for periods of time in line with Covid-19 restrictions.

“We were delighted when we could reopen them safely in accordance with government guidance and are looking forward to welcoming our visitors in 2022.

“To do this successfully, we want to grow our team of shop volunteers and are looking for people who enjoy interacting with others, can help us to provide a high level of customer service and ensure our shops continue to be friendly and welcoming places.”

To find out more about how you can help generate vital funds, promote the work of the RNLI, and apply, go to https://volunteering.rnli.org/vacancy/shop-volunteerdun-laoghaire-474220.html?_ga=2.233540254.1807215458.1644819346-1504325062.1603365337