4 June 2023 University lecturer, keen rock climber and hiker, Robin Jervis is one of the latest volunteers to join the NCI Newhaven crew. He is now a Certified Watchkeeper, having passed his final assessment in May 2023.
With a special interest in all things maritime and a desire to keep his skills fully up-to-date, he’s told us why his volunteering allows him to combine many interests in one.
1. How did you first become aware of NCI?
When I was reading about the challenges of locating and rescuing people at sea, I became aware of National Coastwatch and the chance to join as a volunteer. It’s meant that I can combine many interests in one.
2. Have you any previous maritime experience?
I've done a fair bit of yachting in the Solent and the Channel as well as going out to St Kilda and around the Western Isles. I first got an introduction to it via the Rona Sailing Trust, which is a charity that helps to get young people sailing. I've got a few RYA skipper qualifications and technical expertise.
3. What made you decide to volunteer?
I thought it would be a good opportunity to contribute to maritime safety. The maritime community is really a self-reliant group that looks out for each other, and this was a chance to be a part of that. It also lets me brush up on the skills I learned when yachting such as chartwork, radio and RADAR, which is really useful training.
4. Have you volunteered with other organisations ?
I've done some fundraising, such as the National 3 Peaks Challenge for Mind a few years ago, but not really a long-term volunteering role.
5. What do you like most about volunteering with NCI?
There's usually something new every watch to learn about (for example, recently we're being alerted to damage to vulnerable rare plants on our beaches). You get to spend a lot of time looking at an amazing view and knowing that you're keeping people safe to enjoy it as well.
6. Are your family and friends supportive
I think they agree that it's important to find time to contribute to the things you find meaningful.
7. Is there a watch you’ll never forget and what was it?
My first incident is one I won’t forget. It was potentially sensitive and involved working with the Police and HM Coastguard, it was my first taste of working closely with our emergency services partners. That really brought home the value of the assistance we provide.
8. What has surprised you about NCI?
The scale and professionalism of the operation. Newhaven is a relatively small port, but to provide the cover that we do we need a tremendous amount of watchkeepers trained to a high standard.
If you’re interested in volunteering with us, we have 59 stations around the coast of England and Wales. Find out more here: Information for Potential Watchkeepers | National Coastwatch Institution (nci.org.uk)