BARB Search & Rescue
BARB Search & Rescue, founded in 1992 as Burnham Area Rescue Boat, is an independent charity run by a dedicated team of local volunteers.
Help us keep saving lives.
We’re an entirely volunteer-run crew, and every penny donated goes directly towards keeping our hovercraft operational and our team ready to respond. Your support makes a real difference on the Somerset coast.
Help Us, To Help Others
BARB is a registered charity that relies entirely on public donations to keep our rescue service running. Our annual operating costs exceed £75,000 — covering equipment, training, vessel maintenance, and everything needed to stay ready 24 hours a day.
Unlike many rescue organisations, nobody at BARB receives a penny for their work. Every member of our crew is a volunteer. That means every donation you make goes directly into saving lives.
Ways to Donate to BARB
There are several ways you can support BARB:
In person — visit us at the Marine Rescue Centre, Burnham-on-Sea
Donation Station — located next door to our Rescue Centre at BIARS
One Lottery — support us with a weekly lottery entry
JustGiving — donate online at justgiving.com/barb
BARB Key Reasons to Donate
Over 200 lives saved since 1992
On average, 50 rescue call-outs each year
£75,000+ needed every year to stay operational
On call 24/7, 365 days a year
100% publicly funded — no government grants, no paid staff
Other Ways to Donate to BARB
Cheques are welcome — please make them payable to BARB Search & Rescue and post to the Marine Rescue Centre, Burnham-on-Sea.
Want to wear your support? Our BARB merchandise is available at our neighbour BIARS, with every penny of profit going straight back into the charity. Pick something up next time you visit — and help us spread the word.
INCASE OF EMERGENCY, DIAL 999 AND ASK FOR THE COASTGUARD
© 2026 BARB Search & Rescue Registered Charity No: 1031263