25/08/2026
Worth noting - hence why our guests put money into our collection tin in the hall 😊
A longer read for a Sunday evening, but we believe worthwhile. We’ve recently had a few comments and questions about charging people for the time and resources we put into rescues. Firstly, a reminder, mountain and cave rescue in the UK is free, and all teams are charities run by volunteers.
Our view is that if someone needs help on the hills, in the Dales or underground, the last thing they should worry about is a bill. Charging casualties might sound simple, but it creates problems that put people, and rescuers, at greater risk.
We don’t want people hesitating - If someone’s hurt, lost or unwell, they should call early, not wait until things get critical because they’re worried about money. Early calls save lives.
Accidents happen - Most of our rescues involve people who were well‑prepared but unlucky: a slip, a sudden medical issue, weather turning fast. Charging them would punish misfortune.
We’re volunteers - CRO exists because of community support, not invoices. Charging casualties would damage trust and undermine the ethos of UK mountain and cave rescue.
It makes rescues riskier - Self‑rescue attempts, hiding injuries, or pushing on when unwell all lead to more serious incidents, and more danger for our team.
The bottom line - CRO will always respond, free of charge, day or night.
No judgement. No invoice. Just help.
