Seapost - December 2024

While this time of year brings hope and joy for many, it also highlights the sacrifices of seafarers, who spend the season far from their loved ones. Through our Winter Appeal, we aim to ease these challenges by providing essential support for groceries, fuel bills, and gifts, helping families experience the warmth of the holidays despite their hardships. Your generosity can truly bring light to their lives!

Thanks to our donors' incredible support in 2024, we awarded over £2.6m in grants to 48 organisations, funding initiatives that improve the safety and wellbeing of seafarers worldwide.

Looking ahead, we invite you to tackle the 24 Peaks Challenge on 5–6 July in the breathtaking Lake District. This adventure is a chance to push your limits while raising much-needed funds for seafarers in need and their families.

We are also excited to be content partners of Oceans of Opportunity, a digital docuseries by IMarEST that celebrates seafarers' vital role in the Blue Economy.

At the International Maritime Human Factors Symposium, our Chief Executive championed psychological safety at sea and our commitment to diversity and inclusion, including the ISWAN Allyship campaign, which promotes safer working environments for all.

In the latest Sea Views podcast episode, Ben McInnes, Harbour Master at Portsmouth International Port, offers a fascinating look into managing safety at one of the UK’s busiest ports.

Finally, as of 23 December, new updates to the Maritime Labour Convention will enhance welfare for seafarers, including improved internet access and healthier onboard diets - critical steps forward inspired by lessons from the pandemic.

We wish you a joyful festive season filled with warmth and cheer. Thank you for your ongoing support and we look forward to continuing this journey together in the year ahead!