Lifesaving Sport

The Royal Life Saving Society UK is the National Governing Body for pool-based Lifesaving Sport - a sport recognised by the International Olympic Committee and the Commonwealth Games Federation. Lifesaving Sport is the only sport whose skills are first learned for humanitarian purposes.

As showcased in our new promotional video, Lifesaving Sport is a competitive and dynamic international sport, with a variety of fun and challenging activities that take place in and out of the water at swimming pools and the beach. It is also an important vehicle to engage young people in lifesaving and support drowning prevention.

Lifesaving World Championships 2024

The Lifesaving World Championships 2024 (LWC 2024) will take place from 23 August to 9 September 2024 on the Gold Coast in Australia, hosted by Surf Life Saving Queensland.

Pool events will take place at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, Southport, and the Ocean/Beach events will take place at Kurrawa Beach.

Visit the official Lifesaving World Championships website

Latest

RLSS UK Christmas Appeal 2023

Dedicate a light on the RLSS UK virtual Christmas tree to celebrate or remember a loved one this Christmas and help support our work.
Leisure Operator takes RLSS UK’s winter water safety advice on tour

Swimming teachers from leisure operator Better are using the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK)’s winter water safety resources as part of their roadshow tour around England.
Procurement Executive
Royal Life Saving Society UK Christmas Appeal 2023

Dedicate a light on the RLSS UK virtual Christmas tree to celebrate or remember a loved one this Christmas and help support our work.

National Lifesaving Championships 2024

Save the date for Nationals 2024!
National Speed Lifesaving Championships 2024

Save the date for Speeds 2024 for your opportunity to compete in the Commonwealth Games Pool - we'll see you at Sandwell!

National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)

The Royal Life Saving Society UK 's National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ). The UK’s most popular Pool Lifeguard Training and Certification with courses across the UK and Ireland.
Your RLSS UK Account (powered by tahdah)

Find out how to log in to your RLSS UK Account (powered by tahdah), view our how-to guides, and all the latest FAQs.
Find a Course (RLSS UK Course Finder)

Looking to find a course? This page will direct you to where you need to go.
RLSS UK Qualifications and Awards
Cold Water Shock – the Facts

The term ‘cold water shock’ refers to a range of natural reactions that our bodies take to protect us when we enter cold water (although these reactions can sometimes work against us).
National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ)

The National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ) is the core qualification for anyone seeking employment on UK Beaches. The NVBLQ ensures that the qualified lifeguard has the knowledge and skills required to operate effectively across a range of beach environments.
National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches (NRASTC)

NRASTC is a supervision and rescue qualification for teachers working on the poolside or in the water during programmed activities, such as a swimming lesson.
Winter Water Safety

Children and pets are at risk when tempted to play on the ice and adults can find themselves at risk in attempting to save them.
Contact Us

If you are looking to make an enquiry to the society, our customer service team will be able to help.
The stages of the Rookie Lifeguard programme

Rookie Lifeguards can receive a certificate, badge and sticker to mark their progress in their own progress book.