Established in 2000, Civil Aid Voluntary Rescue Association was founded by Ivor Davies, with a primary focus on Water & Land Search and Rescue operations in Wales. After Ivor's retirement in 2024, CAVRA faced challenges, and due to a lack of interest in keeping the charity operational, all assets were donated to The National Independent Lifeboat Association (NILA).  CAVRA was successfully revived by a dedicated team comprising Andy Cracknell, Adrian McDowell, and Lauren Smith in November 2024.

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As part of the revival of CAVRA, the image was modernised, with a new logo created. As part of the relaunch, the area of operation was increased from Wales to include England also, and to expand CAVRAs services, now including general resilience volunteers and medically trained volunteers.