Islay and Jura Community Enterprises (IJCE) delivers vital support for seafarers and their families, fostering wellbeing, training, and social inclusion.
Meet Martyn Chandler, project manager for Islay and Jura Community Enterprises (IJCE). He oversees initiatives like the Rookies Swimming Club and Aquacare, a programme supporting retired seafarers such as Douglas*, who started out as a deckhand, transporting the islands’ distinctive whisky to the mainland. Initially joining Aquacare to recover from a shoulder injury, Douglas now regularly attends the 50+ swimming sessions. These activities have become part of his weekly routine, helping him stay active, manage chronic pain, and enjoy social connections.
Martyn also runs the Autumn Years lunch club, a regular social event that also welcomes the island’s community of retired seafarers. 'They’re a tight-knit, resilient bunch, but they can be cautious of outsiders,' Martyn says.
“
'The Autumn Years club is a great way for them to socialise and a chance for us to build their trust. It also provides a relaxed opportunity to connect them with essential financial and welfare services like Bank of Scotland and IJ Credit Union who visit weekly after lunch'.
Martyn Chandler
Project Manager for Islay and Jura Community Enterprise
This light touch approach pays dividends when it comes to the 2 'Market Days' Isla and Jura Community Enterprises arranges for the islands’ inhabitants. Benefits, debt advice, poverty advice and housing support are offered in partnership with Citizens Advice Bureau and the Social Security Agency, among others, many of whom make the journey to the island to meet face-to-face.
The ICJE also offers free swimming lessons and lifeguard training for seafarers and their families, as well as opportunities for youth training. When Matthew decided to follow his dream of becoming a seafarer, IJCE was able to arrange free VHF Radio training. After completing his survival at sea course, also made possible by the IJCE, Matthew gained his first job as a trainee engineer with the Islay ferry.
In the photo: Matthew trying on a flotation suit during IJCE's Survival Course.
With funding from The Seafarers' Charity, IJCE encapsulates our mission - ensuring seafarers and their families are supported, valued, and free of need and disadvantage at every stage of their seafaring journey.
*Name has been changed to protect privacy
You may also like
Our impact
Go back to Our impact page to see the real life impact of your donations to seafarers in need and their families.
read moreMake a donation
Help support seafarers in need and their families, by making a single gift, or setting up a monthly donation.
Ways to Donate