Seapost - January 2026

In the January edition of Seapost, we reflect on the start of 2026 and the ongoing challenges faced by seafarers, who remain isolated and exhausted far from their families, even as many of us settle back into routines at home. By supporting our Winter Appeal, you ensure that seafarers in need and their families continue to receive vital health, wellbeing, and financial assistance.

This month, we follow Rod Cappell as he takes on the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race 2025/26, sailing from Australia to China, visiting South Korea, crossing the North Pacific, and navigating the Panama Canal to raise funds for seafarers in need. In the first episode of Season 2 of Sea Views, host Julia Gosling speaks with retired US Coast Guard captain Matt Baer about offshore search and rescue, lifesaving technologies, and lessons for both professional and recreational seafarers.

As a new year resolution, we invite supporters to take on the 24 Peaks challenge in the Lake District from 3–5 July, covering up to 33 miles and 13,000 feet of ascent over two days to raise funds and make a lasting difference for seafarers and their families.

We are also thrilled to announce a new pro bono partnership with law firm Wikborg Rein, whose London office will provide legal support to help the charity continue improving the lives of those who work, or have worked, at sea. In addition, The Seafarers’ Charity has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with CHIRP Maritime to strengthen maritime safety through shared knowledge, advocacy, and data-driven initiatives throughout 2026.

Applications are now open for the first grant round of 2026, with a focus on projects advancing Social Justice and Safer Working Lives at Sea. The International Fund for Fishing Safety (IFFS) is celebrating two years of impact, funding 18 safety projects across 13 countries and benefiting nearly 160,000 fishers. Its FISH Platform has also gained consultative status at the IMO to ensure fishers’ voices shape global maritime safety standards. With $400,000 in new funding from the Oak Foundation, IFFS will expand into seven additional regions, strengthening local safety interventions and advocacy worldwide.