What do lifeguards really think of the job?

More than 3,000 lifeguards from across the UK took part in the first RLSS UK survey of its kind.

The survey findings show that lifeguarding is a hugely satisfying occupation. Trained in First Aid, CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and pool rescue, almost three quarters (71%) of lifeguards said they felt proud to know how to save a person’s life, and 60% gained satisfaction from being part of a highly respected profession. 

One respondent said, “It is one of the best things I did – I now know how to help people and save a life” with another commenting “Go for it! It is a rewarding and fulfilling job.”

They are also frequently communicating with the public, and it is this social interaction that almost 70% of lifeguards say they enjoy most about the role. 

The ability to work part-time, full-time or on a casual basis to fit around other commitments, such as studying or doing the school run, is particularly valued by lifeguards. Almost 50% of respondents said that the flexibility of shifts was the key benefit of working as a lifeguard.  

The variety of duties that being a lifeguard entails is another attraction of the job for 44% of respondents. Working with the public means that no two days are the same.  

A third of respondents (32%) say the development opportunities offered by the role is what they enjoy most about being a lifeguard.   

From communication, leadership, and responsibility to working as part of a team, being a lifeguard can develop many critical and transferrable skills.

FIND OUT WHAT SKILLS ARE NEEDED IN FITNESS AND LEISURE

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) exists to ensure everyone can enjoy water safely. It is the leading provider of lifesaving and lifeguarding training, and water safety education.