Constituent members

Queen Victoria Seamen's Rest

London

Reg. Charity No. 1106126
Address 121 -131 East India Dock Road
London
E14 6DF
Contact(s) Mr Alexander Campbell BA, CMgr, FCMI, (Chief Executive)
Phone 020 7987 5466
Fax 020 7537 0665
Email alexcampbell@qvsr.org.uk
Web www.qvsr.org.uk
Objectives / History The Queen Victoria Seamen’s Rest (QVSR) has been the Seamen’s Mission of the Methodist Church since 1843. It is now the last remaining maritime charity providing accommodation and support to seafarers in the East End of London. It is also the largest seafaring hostel of its kind in the UK with accommodation for over 170 men.

Over the years, the ‘Queen Vic’, as it is better known, has adjusted to the re-development of the Docklands area and changes in the shipping industry. The majority of the work is now among retired and non-active seafarers who see ‘Queen Vic’ as their home. Many are from many different races, creeds and faiths and a ‘multi-faith’ or ‘quiet’ room allows individuals the opportunity to practice their religion, whatever their faith. This has become a particular need as many of those living at QVSR are frail and elderly and find it hard to attend their usual place of worship. Other facilities include a restaurant, TV lounges, coffee shop, chapel and library.

There is a dedicated team whose role is to support residents in maintaining their accommodation at QVSR, accessing services within the wider community and, when appropriate, to find suitable alternative accommodation.

In partnership with the German Seamen’s Mission and the Apostleship of the Sea, QVSR also supports the welfare of working seafarers visiting the neighbouring remaining docks. For those personnel it provides international telephone and internet access, a lounge with TV and DVD, refreshments and recreational facilities such as pool, table football, darts, etc.

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