Founded in 2014, Dunbar Surf Life Saving Club (DSLSC) was created to address the need for coastal water safety education and training in East Lothian. As one of Scotland’s leading surf life saving clubs, DSLSC plays a vital role in developing water safety awareness, lifesaving skills and confidence in and around the sea.
Run by a team of highly qualified and experienced volunteers, the club welcomes children, young people and adults from all backgrounds. Through fun, engaging and practical training, members learn essential surf life saving techniques, first aid, rescue skills and water safety knowledge, while enjoying the many physical and mental wellbeing benefits of spending time outdoors and in the sea.
As more surf life saving clubs emerge across Scotland, DSLSC is excited to help develop the sporting side of surf life saving, creating opportunities for both nippers and adults to take part in friendly competitions and events with other like-minded clubs.
DSLSC delivers a unique community-based programme that supports the aims of Water Safety Scotland by helping to create safer coastal communities and reduce the risk of drowning. Members develop valuable life skills, build confidence, improve fitness and become part of a supportive and welcoming team environment.
“I learned a lot – rescues with tubes and boards, first aid and CPR, how to spot rip currents and understand beach conditions, weather and tides. I really like playing games, mucking about in the sea, bodysurfing and duck diving at the end of each session, and now I can do this more safely!”
The club offers internationally recognised Surf Life Saving qualifications through Surf Life Saving GB (SLSGB) and provides opportunities for members to progress as volunteers, coaches and safety team members. Whether you’re looking to gain practical skills, achieve qualifications or give back to your community, there is a pathway for everyone.
Over the past year alone, we have trained 20 local people to become coaches and safety team members, helping to strengthen water safety provision within our community and club.
Dunbar Surf Life Saving Club is a registered charity affiliated with Surf Life Saving GB, with its work recognised and supported by the RNLI.
“Surf rescue is lots of fun. I have developed my life saving skills on land and in the water, and I have been given the chance to help with the younger kids too. I’ve also made friends with lots of like-minded people.”
Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding our contribution to beach safety through the development of a volunteer Belhaven Beach Patrol service. Made up of highly trained and well-equipped volunteers, the patrol team will help improve safety for all beach users by promoting water safety awareness and providing assistance when needed.
Watch our fantastic team in action in the Dunbar Surf Life Saving Club video (coming soon!) and discover how we’re helping to make Scotland’s coastline safer for everyone.
Interested in Joining?
We are always keen to welcome new members of all ages and abilities. Whether you want to improve your water safety skills, gain qualifications, volunteer or simply enjoy being part of an active coastal community, we’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch with the Club Secretary at secretary@dunbarsurflifesaving.com to find out more about membership and training opportunities.
For the latest news, events and training opportunities, follow Dunbar Surf Life Saving Club on Facebook and Instagram.