Fact Files
© Daryl Garfield
Information centre
If you’re a professional journalist – perhaps one new to the world of mountain rescue – this is the place to find answers to some of those basic questions: How are teams called out? How many teams are there across the country and how do they operate?
You’ll find all the information you need in our fact sheets, or listed in the annual incident statistics, dating back to 1991. Or our quarterly magazine. And if it’s not there, contact Andy Simpson via pressofficer@mountain.rescue.org.uk. He’ll be only too happy to chat!
Fact File 1: About us
Greater than the sum of its parts: Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW), its member teams and regions Q: Mountain rescue is carried out at the point of need, so how do the regions and MREW fit in? Mountain rescue teams are clustered within a number of mountain and moorland areas across England and Wales.…
Fact File 2: Our history
From climbing clubs to world-class service: how mountain rescue grew up Until the late eighteenth century, when a new generation of writers and artists began to inspire adventure in the hills, walking and climbing for fun were the prerogative of the rich. The farmers, shepherds, road builders and quarrymen were there from necessity, not for…
Fact File 3: How the system works
Who calls who and what happens next? Q: How do I call for mountain or cave rescue assistance? • Mountain rescue teams are called out through the police, via the 999 system. • To call for mountain or cave rescue assistance, dial 999, ask for ‘Police’, then either ‘Mountain Rescue’ or ‘Cave Rescue’. Q: What…
Fact File 4: Fundraise for us
How to organise and run your own fundraising event for Mountain Rescue England and Wales Q: I want to raise funds for you but what can I do? There are a number of ways you can raise funds for us and many established events you could take part in (such as the London Marathon). Or…
Fact File 5: Leaving a legacy
Your legacy will enable us to plan for the financial future of Mountain Rescue England and Wales Q: Can I leave a legacy to Mountain Rescue England and Wales? Yes. A gift to mountain rescue in your Will is the surest way to fund equipment and training for mountain rescue teams in the years to…
Fact File 6: How to stay safe
Stay safe in the mountains. Be well-prepared and enjoy your time in the great outdoors: #beadventuresmart Before you set out: Charge your phone Many accidents occur towards the end of the day when both you and your phone are low on energy. Register your phone with emergencysms.org.uk. Plan your route carefully Consider the time of…
Fact File 7: Gift Aid
Give that little bit extra to mountain rescue with Gift Aid Q: How does Gift Aid work? A Gift Aid declaration from you allows us to claim an extra 25p for every £1 you give. And it doesn’t cost you a penny extra. As a charity, we take your donation (which is money you’ve already…
Join Basecamp
As a Basecamp member you’ll be helping support mountain rescue teams across England and Wales. In return for your subscription, we’ll keep you informed about our activities through our quarterly magazine. And since so many of you have asked how you can give that little bit extra, there’s even the opportunity to add a donation through our Silver, Gold and Platinum schemes.