Lincolnshire RAYNET is a group of licensed radio amateurs based in and around Lincolnshire. Our mission is to provide voluntary communications within the terms of our radio licence, to served organisations, in accordance with our constitution which lays out the aims and governance of the group.
Here to stay
Our group, established over 20 years ago, forms part of the national organisation known as RAYNET-UK, established in 1953 to provide voluntary communications in time of need. The UK Amateur Radio Licence permits radio amateurs to handle “third party” messages for the user services - British Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, St. Andrew’s First Aid, the Royal Voluntary Service, the Salvation Army, any government department, and any category 1- or 2- responder as defined in the Civil Contingencies Act 2004.
RAYNET-UK has a national membership of volunteers organized on a county basis. Thus, any event too large for Lincolnshire RAYNET to handle by itself can be staffed with the aid of operators from neighbouring groups. Lincolnshire RAYNET has equipment installed in a number of district and borough emergency communication rooms, in order to provide a vital, rapid and first class service under emergency conditions. Regular exercises are held with the user services to practice emergency procedures.
Professional
Most RAYNET volunteers are licensed radio amateurs, dedicated, trained and insured for the provision of an efficient communication service. They are technically qualified in the installation, operation and maintenance of their equipment.
Members of the group check all their equipment during a weekly net and train together on the second Tuesday of each month in both face to face and on-line training seasons enabling them to provide a professional service.
Community-focused
However, our members also provide voluntary communications in support of user services for a wide range of public events such as marathons and charity walks. These events allow RAYNET volunteers to perform a useful public service, while practising their communications skills.
Funding
RAYNET members give their time and equipment free of charge during events, using their own handheld or vehicle-mounted radios operating on licensed amateur radio frequencies. However, we are always grateful for donations from event organizers, as these help to cover the running costs of the group. Lincolnshire RAYNET does not engage in direct public fundraising but never refuses donations.