Teddington Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is celebrating its 20 female volunteers on International Women's Day (IWD) (Sunday, 8 March). This means that women now account for a third of all members of the lifeboat station.

Roles undertaken are the same for all volunteers, whether men or women; operational crew, water safety experts, fundraisers and management disciplines.

This year's IWD theme is Give to Gain, encouraging a mindset of generosity and collaboration. 

IWD organisers say: "Whether through donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring, or time, contributing to women's advancement helps create a more supportive and interconnected world. 

"Give to Gain emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. When women thrive, we all rise."

Miranda Jaggers, head of water safety and long-term member of the Teddington volunteer crew said: "Teddington RNLI lifeboat station is a demonstration of how collaboration, shared knowledge and great support come together to create a true team spirit among all volunteers. 

"Celebrating International Women's Day means celebrating the women of our lifeboat station and all of the volunteers who help save lives on our waterways and seas."

On Saturday 28 February, five women from Teddington RNLI joined more than 60 women, representing 25 South East stations of the RNLI, came together in Shoreham by Sea, West Sussex, for the inaugural RNLI Women in Search and Rescue (SAR) event.

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