This statement serves to provide an update regarding the Coastguard Rescue Service, while also acknowledging the remarkable contributions of coastguard rescue officers (CROs) throughout the United Kingdom. For many generations, the operational effectiveness of HM Coastguard has relied on dedicated individuals from local communities who commit themselves to this vital service with professionalism, dedication, and bravery. This enduring tradition continues to be central to the ethos of the Coastguard Rescue Service today.
Recent Legal Developments and Their Implications
On 14 January 2026, the Court of Appeal ruled against the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) in the case of MCA vs Groom. This ruling clarified that the modest remuneration offered by the MCA had unintentionally established a worker relationship with the coastguard rescue officers. Consequently, a shift was necessary to either restore the volunteer model or implement the worker model, ensuring compliance with the court’s decision.
On 1 June 2026, an announcement was made regarding the transition of the Coastguard Rescue Service to an expenses-only volunteer model, set to take effect in September 2026. This decision was deemed the most suitable option at the time, based on the advice received from the MCA and a range of considerations.
Listening to the Concerns of Coastguard Rescue Officers
I have made it a priority to listen to the perspectives and testimonies of coastguard rescue officers regarding how these changes might influence their roles. My visit to a Coastguard station in Southampton allowed me to meet with officers from the Hill Head and Portsmouth teams and gain first-hand insights into the potential impacts of these changes on CROs and their families.
Members of Parliament from across the House have voiced their constituents’ concerns through parliamentary questions, a Westminster Hall Debate, and urgent inquiries. This level of engagement has proven invaluable. I have also received significant feedback from the coastguard rescue officer community, highlighting their apprehensions regarding this proposed change.
Reassessing the Proposed Changes
In light of these expressed concerns, my department has taken the initiative to conduct a thorough review of the information that informed our initial decision-making process. Upon closer examination, it has become evident that certain aspects of the information-gathering process, including two surveys conducted, lacked the necessary detail to adequately reflect the implications of these changes.
Consequently, I can confirm that the plans to transition to the expenses-only volunteer model in September will not proceed, and the current arrangements will remain unchanged.
Prioritising the Voices of Coastguard Rescue Officers
It is vital that CROs feel that their opinions are valued, respected, and acknowledged. I am committed to ensuring that we take the time to comprehensively gather the necessary information to fully understand the operational implications of any future decisions, as well as the potential impact on individual coastguard rescue officers and the choices they face. This will involve direct engagement with CROs to ensure their views are integral to the decision-making process regarding the future of the Coastguard Rescue Service.
In the coming months, the MCA will engage further with trade unions, coastguard rescue officers, and Members of Parliament to gain a deeper understanding of the potential impacts of these changes on individuals and the service as a whole. The insights gained from this engagement will bolster the MCA’s comprehension of operational considerations and will inform future decisions regarding the structure of the Coastguard Rescue Service.
Future Recognition and Support for Coastguard Rescue Officers
Looking ahead, the Department for Transport will explore options to ensure that coastguard rescue officers receive appropriate recognition and rewards for their service while maintaining the flexibility to continue serving their communities.
Ensuring public safety along our coastlines, as well as properly recognising those who protect our communities through their essential work, remains my foremost priority.