Watch my contribution on boosting funding for independent lifeboats

In coastal communities’, independent lifeboats are not only a valued community asset but a vital part of the network for emergency responses.

But, despite their crucial work, there is scant government funding available to them.

Hope Cove lifeboat station is considering purchasing a new rescue boat, which could cost more than £220,000, a vast amount of money for a small organisation.

The Liberal Democrats believe the Government must increase support for these organisations through targeted, practical assistance that strengthens the work of these volunteer teams.

I was proud in a recent parliamentary debate to call for a specific grant scheme to help independent lifeboat stations with capital expenditure.