Internationally seafarers are continuing to face huge difficulties due to COVID-19. They are victims of this crisis and in need of our support, now more than ever.

Our latest Seafarers Happiness Index report demonstrates the alarming rise of mental health issues globally due to prolonged isolation, worry for families back home, and the impact on finances.

We have continued our vital frontline work at a safe distance (in PPE) to provide emotional and welfare support, delivering crucial supplies including life-saving medicine to seafarers onboard. Our new 24/7 digital chatline, launched in response to COVID-19, offers a way for seafarers to seek help, advice, and support. Portable Mifi units, available for crews to borrow whilst in port, is another popular addition to our services. Access to communication has been shown to be crucial to the state of mind of crews.

Global Champions from the maritime industry have responded to our call for support, including teams from the IMO, Ardmore Shipping, Thome Ship Management, Fratelli Cosulich Bunkers and the PLA. 

Guy Platten, ICS Secretary General, who ran a half marathon and raised £18.5k, had this to say:

“As an ex seafarer, I experienced first-hand the work and value of MtS. To call into a port far away from home and know that there were friendly faces to help and often a welfare centre to enjoy away from the ship were so important. During this pandemic crisis, the pastoral care of MtS is even more vital and the work they have been doing to support our seafarers through these difficult times has been exceptional.”

We would be extremely grateful if you would consider taking on a challenge of your own to help us reach our target of £100k by Christmas. For more details on how you can get involved, download the campaign leaflet here.