Be the Lifeline Seafarers Desperately Need
“James phoned me in tears, asking for help. “I’m going to take tablets; I’ve had enough and can’t do this anymore.” He wanted to take his own life, and we immediately called the police to check on him. James was uncontactable for a while, and we were extremely concerned.”
James, 37, a seafarer. James’ story highlights the harsh, often hidden realities faced by many who work at sea.
As we gather with loved ones this festive season, thousands of seafarers like James remain far from home, isolated and exhausted. They move 90% of global trade, ensuring our festive tables are full and gifts arrive on time. This season, you can give seafarers a voice. Your compassion and generosity could be the turning point in someone’s darkest hour.
Thankfully, James was found safe and sound. He received support from one of our funded delivery partners who assist seafarers during their time of crisis.
In 2024, 83% of seafarer deaths were health-related, many linked to stress and poor mental wellbeing. We are asking you to help us change that.
When you donate to us, you provide a lifeline to many seafarers in despair. James shared, “Men like me do struggle at times, and it’s ok to cry for help. I’ve been blessed through Kate, the area Officer for the Southeast Coast; she has helped me turn my life around.”
Your donation will fund urgent health and wellbeing support for seafarers and their families. Mental health care, crisis response, and financial guidance, delivered by trusted maritime welfare charities.
Grants made possible by you:
Thanks to your generous donations, we have distributed substantial grants to charities that provide direct assistance to many people who work, or have worked, at sea, and their families. Here are three heartwarming examples of how your donations have helped seafarers when they needed your support the most:
- A £60,000 grant was awarded to Salute Her UK for bespoke trauma-informed support/therapy intervention for women who have a lived experience of sexual assault while working at sea.
- A £30,000 grant was awarded to ISWAN to top up their Seafarers Emergency Fund and an additional £11,400 grant for typhoon-affected seafarers in the Philippines.
- A £27,500 grant was awarded to Befrienders Worldwide to provide emotional support to seafarers in distress or feeling suicidal through a global network of trained volunteers.
Every gift helps keep seafarers afloat.
During 2-9 December, your donation can go twice as far, when you donate digitally to our Big Give Christmas Challenge. Every gift made during the campaign week will be doubled to support seafarers and their families.
Your support will help protect lives at sea and bring comfort to those who keep the world moving.
