The Seafarers International Relief Fund has called for feedback on what more needs to be done to support seafarers impacted by the Ukraine crisis.
In an effort to review the effectiveness of the response so far and to plan for the future, the Seafarers International Relief Fund (SIRF), together with the Ukraine Charity Co-ordination Group, have launched a survey.
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It is calling on individuals and organisations in the maritime and welfare sectors to share their experiences on the support given so far to those affected by the Ukraine crisis and the ongoing needs of seafarers.
SIRF launched the SIRF Ukraine appeal in March 2022 and has so far raised over $400,000 to support seafarers and their families impacted by the humanitarian disaster caused by the crisis in Ukraine.
SIRF continues to call for urgent donations to support its work. Thanks to the generous support already received, SIRF has delivered aid in the form of the most essential human needs, including shelter, food, water, transport, and access to medical services, but more is needed.
However, it now seems likely that the conflict will continue for some time, and the process of rebuilding lives, homes and communities will take even longer. For that reason, SIRF and the Ukraine Charity Co-ordination Group is conducting a survey to understand what is needed, where the gaps are, and how it can best respond. The results of the survey will help the seafarer welfare community to develop its longer-term strategy for supporting seafarers affected by the conflict.
Speaking on behalf of SIRF, Deborah Layde, Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity, commented:
The funds already raised by SIRF to support seafarers impacted by the Ukraine crisis are providing immediate, practical support to those in need and we are so grateful for the generosity of all those that have donated. But there is so much more that can be done, so we ask the industry to continue to dig deep and donate. The situation remains desperate, and seafarers and their families urgently need your support
The survey is open to everyone supporting seafarers.
