There has been a significant development following concerns raised over proposed changes to the remuneration of HM Coastguard Rescue Officers.
The Government has announced that plans to move Coastguard Rescue Officers to an expenses-only volunteer model in September 2026 will not now go ahead. Instead, the current arrangements will remain in place while work continues to find a longer-term solution following the Court of Appeal judgment earlier this year.
In a written ministerial statement to Parliament, the Government recognised the “extraordinary contribution” made by Coastguard Rescue Officers and confirmed that it intends to work with volunteers, representative bodies and other stakeholders to develop a sustainable model that complies with the law while supporting the future of the Coastguard Rescue Service.
Last month, Boscastle Sound published an opinion piece highlighting concerns about the proposed changes and the potential impact on Coastguard teams serving coastal communities.
This latest announcement will be welcomed by many Coastguard volunteers and the communities they serve, including Boscastle, where the local Coastguard Rescue Team continues to play a vital role in responding to incidents along our coastline.
Full statement here: https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-statements/detail/2026-07-16/hcws272
