The RNLI operates 444 lifeboats, 332 are on station and 112 are in the relief fleet, from 236 lifeboat stations around the coasts of Great Britain, Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. The RNLI's lifeboats rescued 7976 people in 2011 from 8,905 launches. The RNLI's lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved more than 139,000 lives since 1824. In addition RNLI lifeguards have been placed on selected beaches around England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands who attended to 15,625 incidents in 2011.
In 2012, the RNLI Lifeguards service was expanded to cover more than 180 beaches. lifeguards are paid by the appropriate town or city council, while the RNLI provides their equipment and training. In contrast, most lifeboat crew members are volunteers.
The RNLI in Poole is a Training and a Repair and upgrade facility.