The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has reported that 410 volunteer Coastguard Rescue Officers (CROs) left the service between June 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026, with an additional 12 departures recorded so far in June. This represents an average monthly attrition rate exceeding 34 from a volunteer force numbering approximately 3,000 personnel.

The figures were disclosed amid concerns following a series of drownings during the late May Bank Holiday, the hottest on record. At least 19 people died after swimming or entering rivers, lakes, dams, and the sea in an effort to cool down. Earlier in May, the bodies of three sisters—Jane Adetoro, 36, and Christina and Rebecca Walters, aged 32 and 31 respectively—were recovered from the sea off Brighton. The Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team described May as its busiest month ever, responding to 41 incidents within its operational area.

On an annual basis, roughly 400 people die in the UK due to water-related accidents. The recent rise in fatalities and operational strain has coincided with controversy over changes to the remuneration model for CROs. Historically, CROs have received an £11 hourly stipend for responding to incidents, attending training, and participating in operational duties, with a minimum payment equivalent to three hours. However, following a Court of Appeal ruling that these payments legally classify CROs as workers rather than volunteers, the government announced it will cease hourly payments starting in September.

Virginia McVea, chief executive of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, outlined the decision in a letter to CROs, emphasizing the need to adopt a revised volunteer model that includes expense claims but excludes hourly remuneration. McVea acknowledged that many volunteers would have preferred the existing arrangement but noted the legal ruling constrained their options.

In response to a Written Question, Keir Mather, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, stated that changes to the CRS operating model were “not something which we wanted to do but is a mandated consequence of the Court of Appeal ruling.” He added that public safety remains a priority and highlighted that volunteers are motivated primarily by community service. Mather emphasized that the revised model aims to preserve volunteer choice and flexibility, enabling individuals to serve alongside other employment commitments.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency maintained that the rate of officers leaving the service is consistent with previous years and that departures result from a range of personal circumstances and time commitments. The agency reiterated its commitment to supporting the Coastguard Rescue Service by continuing to provide training, equipment, operational support, uniforms, and personal protective equipment, alongside reimbursement for expenses. It also noted ongoing efforts to recruit new CROs to maintain the strength of the volunteer force.