The lonely sailor; how ports can do more for crews

摘要

I t is often said that a happy, healthy workforce is a productive workforce. In an industry like maritime, where seafarers can be alone with their problems for months on end, wellbeing and mental health is particularly important. This is where the UK-based charity Mission to Seafarers (MtS) comes in. Active in more than 200 ports in 50 countries, MtS visits crews to provide help and support, combat loneliness, and provide advice on various issues ranging from mental and physical health to legal and financial woes. "Seafarer welfare has always been important to port operators, but it's fair to say it's not always been at the top of their agenda," explains Ben Bailey, MtS director of advocacy and regional engagement. "But now, thanks to legislation like the Maritime Labour Convention, we are seeing more terminal operators being interested in having a port-welfare service provided."