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- Tasks: Help tell the RNLI's story through media and communications.
- Company: Join a respected charity dedicated to saving lives at sea.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in PR and communications while making a difference.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team and help raise awareness for a lifesaving cause.
- Qualifications: Basic understanding of PR or communications and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with a commitment to diversity and safeguarding.
Overview
RNLI lifeboats and lifeguards help thousands of people each year around the UK. It’s quite a story and you can help us tell it.
We’re looking for someone to join the RNLI’s Communications Team in 2026 on a 10 month placement. Ideally, we’re looking for people with some basic experience and understanding in PR, Communications or Media, social media or who are looking to develop their skills in this area.
You’ll be a keen learner looking to build on a good understanding of communications and PR principles. You’ll be a skilled communicator and confident to hit the ground running – whether that’s writing press releases, social media community management or picking up the phone to our lifeguards, lifeboat crew or the media.
You’ll gain a broad range of experience, from publicising lifeguard and lifeboat rescues and helping handle communications around major incidents, to dealing with the media and protecting the reputation of a well-loved charity. You’ll find out how to use a multi-media, multi-channel approach to promoting a large organisation and discover what it’s like to be part of a busy communications team at a national charity.
The RNLI is a 24/7 search and rescue organisation and you should be ready to work outside normal office hours on occasion.
Your reward will be seeing the RNLI’s reputation go from strength to strength as you help raise awareness of this lifesaving charity and inspire people to support us.
We will use your application to score your suitability for the role so please use the opportunity to tell us what relevant skills and experience you have and why you would be a good candidate for the position. This role is intended as a short-term engagement, limited to two separate opportunities per individual.
Please note the start date for this role is 2 February 2026.
Safeguarding
The RNLI is committed to safeguarding; protecting a person’s health, wellbeing, and human rights, enabling them to live free from harm, abuse, and neglect. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment and have a zero-tolerance approach. The suitability of all prospective employees and volunteers will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment. This will include relevant criminal record checks being carried out dependent on the eligibility of the role. (England & Wales; DBS check, Scotland; Disclosure Scotland PVG, Northern Ireland; Access NI, Republic of Ireland; Garda Vetting; International, International Child Protection Certificate process).
Diversity
Our staff and volunteers have been saving lives at sea without prejudice for 200 years. We respect and value diversity of background, skills and perspectives within our teams, and consider it essential to help us deliver a world-class lifesaving service. We are an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from everyone. In addition to having the skills needed for the role, we also look for applicants who share our commitment to living our RNLI values (trustworthy, courageous, selfless, and dependable), and helping us work towards Our Vision: To save Every One.
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Communications Placement (National) - Temp up to 10 months employer: RNLI
Contact Detail:
RNLI Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications Placement (National) - Temp up to 10 months
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the RNLI inside out! Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and recent campaigns. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former RNLI employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Communications Placement.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it’s writing press releases or managing social media, get some hands-on experience. You could even volunteer for local charities to build your portfolio.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Communications Placement (National) - Temp up to 10 months
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Communications: When you’re writing your application, let your enthusiasm for communications and PR shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely excited about helping us tell the RNLI story.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the role. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission, so don’t hold back on showcasing your best bits!
Be Clear and Concise: In your written application, clarity is key! Keep your sentences straightforward and to the point. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read, so avoid jargon and fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at RNLI
✨Know Your RNLI Story
Before the interview, dive deep into the RNLI's history and mission. Understand their values and recent campaigns. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you connect your skills to their goals during the conversation.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples of your past communication experiences, whether it's writing press releases or managing social media. Be ready to discuss how you can apply these skills to publicise lifeguard and lifeboat rescues effectively.
✨Be Ready for Real-Life Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face in this role, like handling a media inquiry after a rescue. Practise how you would respond, showcasing your ability to think on your feet and maintain the RNLI's reputation.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or how they measure success in communications. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
