Women from across Wales and the wider search and rescue community have come together at Pwllheli RNLI to celebrate the vital contribution they make across lifesaving services.

Hosted by Pwllheli RNLI and lead event organiser, volunteer Launch Authority Lyndsay Harrold, the successful Women in Search and Rescue (SAR) event on 18 October welcomed attendees from a range of RNLI lifeboat stations, teams and emergency service and volunteer backgrounds, for a day of connection, learning, networking and skills development.

The programme included practical and operational workshops covering RNLI lifeboat activities, water safety, lifeguarding, Coastguard operations room decision-making, human factors in search and rescue and managing difficult conversations. Attendees also heard from guest speakers sharing their experiences from across the emergency services sector and beyond.

Dr Lucy Mather delivered sessions on women's health, hormones and menopause, encouraging open discussion on topics that can affect volunteers throughout their lifesaving journeys.

Lauren Hooper, Helicopter Winch Paramedic with Rescue 336, and Dr Elin Haf Davies, adventurer, author and entrepreneur, shared insights from their experiences operating in demanding environments where teamwork, resilience and sound decision-making are critical.

Participants had the opportunity to network with colleagues from fellow RNLI stations and the RNLI Lifeguard Team, as well as organisations including HM Coastguard, North Wales Police and Rescue 336 Helicopter, strengthening relationships across the search and rescue community and promoting collaboration between agencies.

Lyndsay Harrold, Pwllheli RNLI Launch Authority and lead organiser of the Women in SAR event, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome so many women from across the RNLI and wider search and rescue community to Pwllheli, for what proved to be an inspiring day.

“Firstly I want to say a huge thank you to the team from our station here at Pwllheli, for all their support in helping me plan such a brilliant event. It couldn’t have happened without the collective “one crew” effort. Also to everyone who came along to enjoy the day, the vibes were fantastic!

“This event was about bringing people together to share experiences, learn from one another and highlight the many opportunities available to women within organisations such as the RNLI, HM Coastguard, emergency services and other search and rescue partners.

“From operational decision-making and lifeboat activities to women's health and leadership, the programme showcased just how diverse lifesaving roles can be. We were also delighted to hear from a range of guest speakers who generously shared their personal and professional experiences.

“Most importantly, the day helped build new connections and strengthen existing ones across the search and rescue community. We hope everyone left feeling inspired, supported and confident to continue developing in their roles.

“We know how much value women bring to SAR roles, and I always feel so empowered coming away from positive events like this one.”

The event highlighted the wide variety of opportunities available within the RNLI and partner organisations while celebrating the achievements of women already making a difference throughout the search and rescue sector.