Poole | Posted on February 10th, 2026 | return to news

Protest planned against RNLI offices in Poole

A protest titled ‘Stop the Taxi Service’ is scheduled to take place this Saturday outside the RNLI head office in Poole.

Activists from groups calling themselves Poole Patriots and Bournemouth Patriots are organising a demonstration outside the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s (RNLI) headquarters on Saturday 14 February.

The groups are calling on the RNLI to “stop the taxi service”, referring to accusations that the charity acts as a ‘taxi’ for people attempting to enter the UK illegally by crossing the Channel in small boats.

The RNLI has repeatedly defended itself against the accusation, maintaining that its volunteers have a legal and moral duty to save lives at sea, regardless of where individuals come from.

One of the organisers of the protest said: “We respect the RNLI and we respect the volunteers. But this [taxi service] cannot continue.”

Speaking out against the protest, BCP councillor Rachel Pattinson-West said: “For 55 years, the RNLI has had its headquarters in Poole. Many residents will know someone who works with the lifesaving organisation — whether that be building boats, lifeguards on the beach, teachers helping children to swim, or through the many other important roles they perform.

“To protest the RNLI because they save the ‘wrong’ lives is abhorrent. I understand the protest will be on 14 February. Frankly, I’d have hoped those organising it might have found something better to do on Valentine’s Day.”

A counter-protest is being organised by Stand Up To Racism Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

Both demonstrations are scheduled to take place at around 1pm on Slip Way, Poole, where the RNLI has its college, lifeboat centre, Sea Survival Centre and headquarters.