Saving Lives in a Changing World: The RNLI’s Evolving Mission
Join Simon Ling, Head of Lifeboats at the RNLI, for an eye-opening look at how the charity is adapting to significant changes in rescue demand and the realities of operating in today’s maritime environment.
In this talk, Simon will explore the RNLI’s strategy for future-proofing its lifeboat service, from evolving patterns of emergency calls to the impact of technological, environmental, and societal change. He will also discuss the unique challenges faced in the South East English Channel, currently one of the most demanding and closely observed areas of RNLI operations.
The evening offers a rare insight into the decision-making, innovation, and day-to-day realities behind the organisation that saves lives at sea.
Simon Ling is the Head of Lifeboats at the RNLI, leading the strategy, assurance and delivery of the lifeboat service across the UK and Ireland. He oversees fleet development, maritime safety standards and the charity’s response to changing rescue demands. He also volunteers as a Launch Authority at his local station in Poole.
Before joining the RNLI, Simon served for 27 years in the Royal Air Force, holding senior roles in operations, crisis planning and major project delivery.
A qualified RYA Yachtmaster, he is also the founder of Team Spitfire, a competitive amateur sailing team that raises funds for the RAF Benevolent Fund.
Date: Thursday 2 April 2026
Time: Doors 7pm, talk begins 7.30pm
Where: The Studio, Arundells, The Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EN
Tickets: £16
Ticket options
Join Simon Ling, Head of Lifeboats at the RNLI, for an eye-opening look at how the charity is adapting to significant changes in rescue demand and the realities of operating in today’s maritime environment.
In this talk, Simon will explore the RNLI’s strategy for future-proofing its lifeboat service, from evolving patterns of emergency calls to the impact of technological, environmental, and societal change. He will also discuss the unique challenges faced in the South East English Channel, currently one of the most demanding and closely observed areas of RNLI operations.
The evening offers a rare insight into the decision-making, innovation, and day-to-day realities behind the organisation that saves lives at sea.
Simon Ling is the Head of Lifeboats at the RNLI, leading the strategy, assurance and delivery of the lifeboat service across the UK and Ireland. He oversees fleet development, maritime safety standards and the charity’s response to changing rescue demands. He also volunteers as a Launch Authority at his local station in Poole.
Before joining the RNLI, Simon served for 27 years in the Royal Air Force, holding senior roles in operations, crisis planning and major project delivery.
A qualified RYA Yachtmaster, he is also the founder of Team Spitfire, a competitive amateur sailing team that raises funds for the RAF Benevolent Fund.
Date: Thursday 2 April 2026
Time: Doors 7pm, talk begins 7.30pm
Where: The Studio, Arundells, The Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EN
Tickets: £16
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