Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboats have saved more than 137,000 lives. 

In 2005 RNLI lifeboats rescued 8,104 people - an average of 22 people per day. RNLI Lifeguards assisted 9,930 people.

Training is vital - it turns volunteers into lifesavers. Every year the RNLI delivers consistent, high quality training to thousands of crew members at The Lifeboat College in Poole and at its 233 lifeboat stations. In addition to the training delivered at The Lifeboat College and by the RNLI's Mobile Training Units, regular station training is also undertaken. This costs substancial  money.

http://www.rnli.org.uk/