The association's objectives are: -

• to save lives.
• to promote, improve and control the work of life saving, resuscitation and first aid on all beaches in Great Britain.
• to provide facilities for young people to participate in organised life saving as a voluntary, vital public services and in beach and water sports for enjoyment and recreation and also to encourage the high standard of team work and responsibility on both activities.
• to promote and improve national and international standard of water safety.
• to develop and improve beach life saving methods and equipment.
• to establish and monitor nationally and internationally recognised qualifications in beach life saving, resuscitation and first aid.
• to cooperate with all organisations with similar aims.

Brief History
SLSA of Great Britain is one of 'Britain's National Governing Body for Beach Lifeguards and Surf Life Saving Sport'. SLSA of Great Britain was formed in 1958.  The Chief Patron is H.R.H The Duke of Edinburgh K.G, K.T. The association's members had rescued over 360 lives in 1999 and over 18,940 since 1960. The association provides a safe enjoyable environment on our beaches.

Facilities and Equipment Required
Most of the equipment used in Life Saving will be provided by the Clubs in the local areas. Facilities are available on the beaches.  These would be clubhouses, where meetings, training sessions and competitions are held.

We encourage members to provide themselves with wetsuits, skis and boards, although all of theses can be hired. Paddles can also be provided, although members tend to buy their own to compete at a higher level.

Benefits of Participating
The association thrives in encouraging the young and old to participate in controlled safe events, which lead to a recognised award.  The Beach and Coastal Award Scheme progresses into the world of Surf Life Saving Sport. Our sport is an opportunity to perform at ones best and to improve upon previous performances. Competitions are events where you can have fun, gain success, learn from others and help develop mental ability.

Variations of the Sport
The range of sport awards offers a level of safety and knowledge to ensure open access for all.  The sporting events vary and all ages can enter.  The sport is ideal for triathletes and other multi-skilled sportsmen and sportswomen.  The association maintains Coach Accreditation scheme and Official Accreditation schemes.

The Surf Life Saving Association of Great Britain also has many partnerships within the institute of Leisure and Amenity Management to bring on line a full set of awards in the National Aquatic Rescue Standards (NARS), which gains National and International recognition.