The importance of seafarers’ welfare was the focus of a Westminster Hall debate yesterday, where MPs gathered to discuss the vital role of those working at sea.
The debate, led by Labour MP for Thurrock Jen Craft, emphasised the contribution of seafarers who transport 95% of the world’s goods.
Jen Craft MP paid tribute to welfare charities that work tirelessly to support seafarers, highlighting her recent visit to Queen Victoria Seamen’s Rest (QVSR) in Tilbury.
During her visit, she joined volunteers and Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) staff in wrapping hundreds of Christmas gifts for seafarers who will spend the festive season at sea. She also acknowledged the work of MNWB, the UK’s umbrella charity representing 48 maritime welfare organisations, including QVSR. Both Alexander Campbell (QVSR CEO) and Stuart Rivers (MNWB CEO) attended the debate.
Speaking in Westminster Hall, Jen Craft MP said:
“Even when vessels are not abandoned, seafarers may find themselves stuck for weeks following ship arrests. This has happened several times in my constituency, with a notable incident at Purfleet-on-Thames last year that also highlighted why port-side support services are so important.
“Several charities do excellent work in this space, including the Queen Victoria Seamen’s Rest and the Merchant Navy Welfare Board. I offer my thanks for their tireless efforts, and for the tireless work of their volunteers — especially those who serve in my constituency at QVSR in Tilbury. I am incredibly impressed by their support for seafarers who come into port. They offer a brilliant service, including port transport, free wi-fi and fresh food. They also run a bar, host social events and assist with safeguarding concerns when necessary.
The latest QVSR project, wrapping 3,000 Christmas presents for seafarers, is well under way. I was pleased to lend a hand last month. Every seafarer receives either a hat, scarf or pair of mittens; SIM cards so that they can contact their family; a little bit extra and a chocolate bar.”
Maritime Minister Keir Mather MP added:
“The Government is undertaking wide-ranging work to enhance the support that we give to seafarers’ welfare charities. We have grants that provide a scheme called MiFi, which is about giving Wi-Fi access to seafarers in the United Kingdom. We have a Vehicle Replacement Programme for the Merchant Navy Welfare Board to ensure that seafarers can get to where they need to receive support, and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) sits on the board of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board to provide a crucial link between these charities and Government.”
Following the debate, Mr Rivers said:
“We’re delighted to see seafarers’ welfare recognised in Westminster Hall. Together, with our member charities, we work tirelessly to support those at sea, and this debate reinforces the importance of collaboration between Government and welfare organisations to ensure seafarers receive the care and services they deserve.”
Last month, MNWB and the MCA reaffirmed their commitment to seafarers and fishers by re-signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Under this agreement, MNWB – formally recognised in 2021 as the UK’s National Seafarers’ Welfare Board in line with the ILO Maritime Labour Convention – will continue to work closely with the MCA to enhance coordination, share information, and collaborate on welfare issues affecting seafarers and fishers.
- MNWB held its members’ conference on seafarers’ welfare at the Utilita Bowl last week where members, industry experts, government officials and port representatives came together to discuss challenges and opportunities ahead for the welfare sector.
