Seafarers globally are the most essential part of our business, just as important as the vessels they work on. The past year has presented unforeseen circumstances that has left many of them stranded in remote parts of the world, with challenges to reunite them with family and loved ones. It is good to see that the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has by consensus, adopted a resolution on 1st December, calling all nations to co-operate and help designate seafarers as key workers. This will hopefully place them as priority for vaccinations.
Mental health can be an issue for those that have been placed in situations that have left them unable to control any part of their current life due to the impacts of COVID. We wish to let you know that we appreciate all of your work and you are essential for your company, trade and the global economy.
With political issues such as the coal vessels currently stranded off China from Australia, we wish for a mature, objective and professional outcome to resolve this, and many other issues that result in the shipping companies at a loss and seafarers stranded.
For seafarers who may seek some assistance, BIMCO has released the following guide that may help. Additionally in Australia, the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) has support partners in place. https://www.mua.org.au/ . Please do not remain silent if you are having issues and contact the support groups that can make the world of difference to your wellbeing.
SeafarerHelp | 24/7 multilingual and confidential helpline for seafarers’ and their family - emotional support and practical help |
Nautilus 24/7 | 24/7 multilingual help available to Nautilus members |
NUSI Sahara | 24/7 psychological support for Indian seafarers and their family |
AMOSUP | 24/7 psychological support for Filipino seafarers and their family +63 2 3310 6641 +63 2 8527 8116 to 20 (local2061) |
SAIL | British seafarers – help with benefits, debt and housing |
Seafarer Support | Central source of information on maritime charities support for seafarers and their families |
Seafarer Hospital Society | 24/7 online confidential advice and support service for all working and retired seafarers and families for seafarers in the UK |
Mission to Seafarers Chat to a Chaplain | 24/7 MtS & ICMA chaplains available to talk https://www.missiontoseafarers.org/news/the-mission-launches-a-digital-chaplaincy-support-service-for-seafarers |
Sailors Society Wellness at Sea | Emergency COVID-19 helpline |
Sailors Society India | Helpline for Indian seafarers and their families https://www.sailors-society.org/news/sailors-society-launches-dedicated-24-hour-helpline-for-indian-seafarers#:~:text=Anyone%20in%20need%20of%20assistance,the%20helpline%20are%20strictly%20confidential. |
DSM.care | 24/7 online service to chat with a DSM chaplain |
Danish Seaman’s Church | Chaplains available for a chat |
Stella Maris | To call Catholic chaplains worldwide for a chat |
To all our clients and partners, we wish to thank you for your support and have a very safe and happy Christmas break.
December 2020
info@globalworkboats.com.au
+61 (0) 417 942247 (+8hrs GMT)