Seapost - February 2026

Thousands of seafarers work at sea every day to keep global trade moving, yet many face financial hardship, isolation and tough working conditions. With February being Payroll Giving month, we would like to remind you that payroll giving remains the easiest and most effective way for UK taxpayers to contribute to the ecosystem of support for seafarers. With donations taken directly from gross salary, supporters benefit from tax relief while helping fund maritime welfare initiatives that provide financial assistance, mental health services and safety resources all year round.

The International Fund for Fishing Safety (IFFS), administered by our charity, is making a real difference by funding practical, local projects that save lives. A new documentary, “All that separates us is distance,” commissioned by Lloyd's Register Foundation, brings audiences closer to fishers’ families and communities in Ghana, Indonesia and the UK, highlighting shared challenges, resilience and connection across distance.

We are also proud to support a year-long diabetes study led by the University of Surrey, exploring how modern glucose-monitoring technologies may help insulin-treated seafarers working at sea. The study is now calling for participants with a valid ENG1 or ML5 certificate.

Innovation and safety at sea are explored in the latest episode of Sea Views podcast, supported by CHIRP Maritime and funded by The Seafarers’ Charity. The episode offers a clear, operational look at uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), examining how they are regulated, how they are being used today, and what they mean for safety, skills and the future maritime workforce.

Strengthening safety standards internationally remains a priority. In partnership with the University of Southampton’s Wolfson Unit MTIA and South African partners, a new two-year project will pilot an accredited course enabling maritime professionals to carry out basic stability appraisals of fishing vessels, with potential expansion across southern Africa.

The edition also celebrates our funded partner Stella Maris, the world’s largest ship-visiting charity, recognising its global reach and invaluable contribution to seafarers’ welfare, while honouring the memory of Rostyslav ‘Rostik’ Inzhestoikov.

Finally, during LGBT+ History Month, The Seafarers’ Charity reaffirms its commitment to a diverse and inclusive maritime sector, championing allyship and providing practical resources to ensure every seafarer feels safe, seen and supported.