It is known that being a seafarer is a challenging work, while it might be one of the toughest jobs in the world. Although the shipping industry recognizes the daily difficulties that seafarers are dealing with, several organizations can’t cover all eventualities.
On top of the long separation from your loved ones your job can also be dangerous, mentally and physically demanding, and lonely. Serious accidents, fatalities and suicides are more common in your industry than most others, as are abandonment and piracy.
May the maritime organisations understand that the mental and physical health of a seafarer play a critical role, due to the global nature of the industry, several companies do not have all the necessary resources or abilities to cover all the possible cases.
For instance, a vessel managed in Singapore may have a seafarer who needs hospitalisation whilst in Aberdeen. Who would visit the seafarer on a daily basis, take him/her clothes and toiletries, source an interpreter if s/he doesn’t speak English? Or, a Hamburg container ship might suffer a fatality whilst in Durban. Who would counsel the traumatised crew, provide a blessing or memorial service, and then be able to continue support in the next port of call?
The examples given by Ian Stokes Head of Corporate Engagement and Partnerships at Stella Maris, on Global Maritime Forum article, highlighting the urgency of ship-visiting charities for seafarers well-being onboard.
Seafarers who are motivated, appreciated, happy and well-rested will work better, motivate those around them and have fewer accidents. We also know how much the individual seafarer values and benefits from the help we provide, the friendship we bring, and the opportunity to smile and talk and feel that the job they do is hugely valued.
….Ian Stokes, Stella Maris’ Head of Corporate Engagement noted.
With seafarers dealing with health issues, family worries or even money concerns, it is of vital importance to talk with someone about these issues. In light of the situation, Stella Maris has been providing volunteer ship visitors and many more, in the UK and all around the world, for 100 years.
The simple act of discussing with someone of the volunteer ship visitors not only helps to release pent up emotions and pressure but can lead to resolution of complex issues. In this way, the pattern and regularity of ship visits play a crucial role in boosting seafarers’ morale, well-being and mental health.
The assistance we provide takes many forms – warm clothing in winter, reading materials, port transportation to help maximise shore leave, faith materials and services, gifts at Christmas, and the provision of top-up cards and Wi-Fi are just some of the many small ways in which we assist seafarers. Most importantly, however, Stella Maris provides a friendly face in a foreign land, someone the seafarer can trust, speak to and confide in.
….Ian Stokes conclude.
