Weston-Super-Hero: Mareike Warren - Balancing duty and passion with REACT and HM Coastguard

Individuals who break the mould are a familiar story at REACT. Our Responders dedicate their time, energy and expertise to support communities and serve in times of crisis. Mareike Warren is both a REACT Responder and a member of HM Coastguard and her image has been captured by photographer Ian Phillips as part of his Weston-Super-Heroes project.

Mareike's journey as a responder began in the autumn of 2021 when she signed up to become a volunteer, completing her UK Operations course in March of the following year. She is now a proud member of the South West Rapid Response Team, having completed several other courses and deploying with REACT to support overstretched NHS teams in the UK and taking part in exercises to support local disaster resilience.

Asked about her time with REACT, Mareike shares, "I have been a single mum since my youngest was just over a year old and, with no family or support, I had to put my life on hold for over 15 years whilst I cared for my little family. My kids are now independent and happy, so I am filling any spare time doing the things I enjoy doing most: learning new skills and supporting others during difficult times.”

Mareike's hard work doesn't stop at REACT though; it's just one chapter in her remarkable story. In April 2023, she took on yet another significant role as she joined HM Coastguard. Passing her initial training and assessments in July 2023, she is now a proud Coastguard Rescue Officer and a member of Area 12, Team Weston-Super-Mare.

Mareike is part of a dual team that receives specialised training for technical mud and cliff scenarios, in addition to the broader skills required for water rescue, lost person searches, and critical casualty care. Since joining HM Coastguard, she has already clocked up more than 72 volunteer hours. And she does all this alongside a full-time Customer Services Manager role at Smurfit Kappa.

Mareike goes on to say “I am very lucky that my employer is supportive of my volunteering and I am incredibly proud of being part of the REACT and Coastguard teams. It is an honour to work with and learn from some true legends.”

The Weston-Super-Heroes project is a celebration of everyday heroes and showcases all of the people living and working in the town, who serve or have served their local community. Subjects include charity volunteers, emergency workers, armed forces veterans and people who work in the NHS.

The journey of all of these incredible people demonstrates the incredible impact that individuals can have when they choose to put their skills and passions to use for the greater good. To start your REACT journey, please get in touch today.