A 100-year-old RNLI volunteer with seven decades of service is encouraging others to get involved during Volunteers’ Week. Helen Daniels, who turned 100 on 26 March, began volunteering with the RNLI in 1956 at the age of 30. She joined the Lifeboat Guild at Great Yarmouth and Gorleston Lifeboat Station and remains an active member today.
The Guild plays a key role in raising funds to support the RNLI’s lifesaving work around the coast.
Despite reaching her centenary year, Helen continues to support fundraising activities, including coffee mornings and raffle ticket sales. “I don’t want to sit and do nothing,” she said.
Reflecting on 70 years of service, Helen said the friendships and sense of community have been among the most rewarding aspects of volunteering. “The support that I’ve had has been tremendous, and it’s lovely to meet everyone who volunteers. I’ve made lifelong friends,” she said. “The public, too, is excellent and is a highlight.”
Helen encouraged others to consider volunteering with the charity. “Come to a meeting and see what it is about. You’ll be very welcome,” she said.
Her RNLI journey began with collecting donations door-to-door in the village of Hemsby. With support from her husband Ernest and fellow volunteers, fundraising efforts expanded across 14 neighbouring villages.
Over seven decades, Helen has witnessed significant changes within the RNLI, including advances in lifeboat technology and the growth of digital fundraising. She has also kept a record of funds raised during her time with the charity and estimates the total at around £1 million.
Volunteers’ Week, established in 1984, celebrates the contribution of volunteers across the UK and highlights the positive impact volunteering can have on communities and wellbeing.
