Annually, we actively recruit new volunteers to maintain our operational strength, ensuring a dedicated team of 80+ Search Technicians and Support Crew members. Yesterday, we participated in the Wokingham Volunteer Recruitment Fair, a significant event where we engaged with potential candidates and shared our mission and values.
It has been an eventful week for our Search and Rescue team as we responded to multiple calls for assistance in addressing the flooding situation in Berkshire.
BLSAR 2024 and Beyond
As we reflect on the year 2023, marked by our transition into a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), the past year has been a testament to our commitment and achievements. While moments may have seemed quiet, the numbers tell a remarkable story:
The 5 Thames Valley Search & Rescue Teams were delighted to meet and thank Matthew Barber Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley for his continued support at one of our regular stakeholder meetings.
Yesterday, Alan from Berkshire Lowland Search & Rescue and Mags from Bucks Search & Rescue had the honor of representing all Thames Valley Search & Rescue Teams during a special visit. They were invited to meet His Royal Highness Prince William at the Milton Keynes Blue Light Hub. Prince William's visit was focused on shining a spotlight on the importance of mental health support for our dedicated emergency workers from various professions.
Berkshire Lowland Search and Rescue were honoured to be presented with a Certificate of Recognition by Thames Valley Local Resilience Forum for its part in the multi-agency response to the Covid 19 pandemic between February 2020 and May 2021.
We are very grateful to Matthew Barber Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley for supporting all 5 Search & Rescue Teams across Thames Valley.
A generous grant from Morrisons Foundation has allowed the water team to invest in one of the most advanced sonar systems commercially available, the Hummingbird Sonar Helix 15 with 360 Mega imaging.
BLSAR’s success hinges on our dedicated investment in search and rescue training. Over the weekend, five of our team members journeyed to Shropshire for rigorous water training.
On Saturday 2nd September 2023 the Team attended Thames Valley Police Open Day 2023 at the Force Training Centre, Sulhamstead, Berkshire.
