Sailors’ Society launches dedicated COVID-19 helpline

06/05/2020

International maritime welfare charity Sailors’ Society, which is supported by WesCom Signal & Rescue, has launched a dedicated COVID-19 helpline for seafarers and their families.

The confidential, 24-hour service offers support and welfare to those worried or adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

COVID-19 helpline is welcome addition

Sandra Welch, the charity’s Chief Operating Officer and director of programme, says, “We’ve seen an increase in calls for help and advice of late and there’s a lot of uncertainty, so our new dedicated Covid-19 helpline is a welcome addition to our services.

“Many seafarers don’t know when they will sign-off and return home.Others haven’t been able to start contracts due to lockdowns. They are worried about losing their income and anxious about loved ones – the toll on their mental health is apparent.

“We are also offering grants to help seafarers and their families whose incomes have been decimated through loss of work and would encourage those in need to get in touch.”

The helpline is a result of the charity’s Covid-19 emergency appeal. This has seen donations pour in from hundreds of individual supporters and shipping companies.

Sandra says, “We’ve had an incredible response to our ongoing Covid-19 emergency appeal and are so grateful for everyone’s support, but there is still so much to be done and the strain seafarers are under is ever increasing.”

With lockdowns ongoing in many countries, Sailors’ Society offers virtual chaplaincy and welfare support. Physical ship visiting only takes place where regulations allow.

Seafarers can access a suite of practical resources produced by Sailors’ Society. This includes an advice hub, Facebook support group and podcasts to help seafarers during the coronavirus crisis.

Shipping companies have also contacted Sailors’ Society asking for help in supporting crews through the pandemic.

Seafarers and their family members can contact Sailors’ Society’s dedicated helpline by calling +1-938-222-8181 or instant chat via www.wellnessatsea.org/covid-19

To access Sailors’ Society’s resources visit www.sailors-society.org/coronavirus or to donate to the charity’s appeal visit www.sailors-society.org/coronavirusgive.

See more information about COVID-19 resources and appeal.