CERI JEFFREYS and Kirstee David, who have been joint Lifeboat Press Officers for Port Talbot RNLI for the last 4 years, are stepping down ready to handover these exciting roles to new volunteers.
Port Talbot RNLI are looking for a new Lifeboat Press Officer (LPO) and Social Media Officer to join the team.
Ceri said: “No two days are the same as station LPO – that’s what makes it such a fun and interesting volunteer role.
“It often starts with the pager, then the incident is ongoing as you are gathering all the facts, before finally pulling together the content, photos and quotes and publishing it to the media.“
Kirstee said: “Port Talbot RNLI has a fabulous team of volunteers, from the shop, to fundraising, to operations – and all these roles need someone to shine a light on the lifesaving work they do. That’s why the LPO and SMO roles are so important.“
The roles have a structured training plan and modules to complete, with full support from a dedicated volunteer manager.
Kirstee added: “If you want a dynamic and diverse volunteering role and you’re not afraid to get stuck in, this is the perfect opportunity.
“This year we also celebrate 60 years of Port Talbot Lifeboat Station, so it’s a fantastic time to join and be part of the celebration.“
These roles help the RNLI save lives at sea by raising awareness of the charity, through promoting lifeboat station activity via local, digital and social media. Port Talbot Lifeboat Station operate a D class inshore lifeboat.
Ceri said: “Being LPO means you are the voice of the station, the best part of the role is you get to showcase the outstanding work of all volunteers that make up our one crew – not just the lifeboat crew who go to sea.“
Clive Morris, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Port Talbot, said: “Ceri and Kirstee have done a fantastic job as joint LPOs for our station over the last few years.
“They have significantly raised our profile by highlighting our lifesaving work and all the wider activity of our one crew, including the Water Safety Team and wonderful RNLI Shop and fundraisers. We’re delighted they are both staying on at the station in other volunteer roles.
“Becoming our next Lifeboat Press Officer and Social Media officer is an exciting opportunity to play a crucial part in helping to save lives at sea and make a positive impact in our community.
“And we have our 60th anniversary celebrations this year too with lots of local activity taking place!“
Enthusiastic people with an interest in writing, communications, media and storytelling should apply. Although no formal training or experience in these areas is required, just a willingness to engage, learn and contribute something special.
Kirstee said: “I would encourage anyone with an interest to apply; there is so much to gain from the roles and joining the Port Talbot RNLI family where you will meet new people and make a real difference.“
For further details, click on the link below to find out more and how to apply:
