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STELLA MARIS: SAILING THE SEAS OF SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY FOR SEAFARERS
Published: 16 May 2024
Jessie Dunn, our Crew Watch Editor, recently had the opportunity to sit down with Ian Stokes, Head of Corporate Engagement and Partnerships at Stella Maris, to discuss the organisations invaluable support to seafarers worldwide.
Stella Maris is the world’s largest ship-visiting charity, with a network of over 200 Chaplains and 800 volunteers across 353 ports spanning 57 countries and a mission to support seafarers and fishers spiritually, practically, and emotionally.
With up to 70,000 ship visits per year, Stella Maris acts as a presence for seafarers confronting grave challenges at sea, including ship abandonment, kidnapping, piracy, hospitalisation, deaths, and even instances of suicide. Beyond these critical moments, it provides practical assistance, warm clothing, reading materials, port transportation, faith materials, money transfers, and gifts during festive seasons. Communication tools such as top-up cards and Wi-Fi also help bridge the gap between seafarers and their loved ones.
Through conversation and practical assistance, Stella Maris addresses various issues, from mental health concerns to financial challenges, ensuring seafarers receive the support they deserve.
MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS
Founded in 1920, Stella Maris has evolved into a global network providing care over time and distance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation expanded its reach, offering humanitarian relief and grants to individual seafarers and their families. From feeding 15,000 seafarers in India to assisting those affected by Typhoon Rai in the Philippines, Stella Maris adapts to the changing needs of seafarers across the world.
COLLABORATION AND SUPPORT
Collaboration is key in addressing the complex challenges faced by seafarers. Stella Maris collaborates closely with shipowners, ship managers, and P&I Clubs. The Britannia Group and Tindall Riley have supported Stella Maris for many years by covering running costs on World Maritime Day and participating in ship-visiting initiatives.
Tindall Riley’s contributions vary from knitting woolly hats for seafarers to sponsoring the Port Chaplain Directory, and exemplify our commitment to the cause. We have consistently reached out to Stella Maris to provide crucial support for our Members’ crews.
The organisation’s global network ensures continuous support for crews worldwide, and it encourages the industry to consider Stella Maris as a valuable resource in times of crisis.
ADVOCATING FOR CHANGE
In the face of forced labour and modern slavery in the maritime sector, Stella Maris takes proactive steps to address these issues. Workshops held in major UK ports in 2023 equipped participants with essential knowledge and tools to identify and respond effectively to signs of modern slavery. The organisation continues to advocate for fair pay, conditions, and workload standards as the industry embraces automation.
THE FUTURE OF STELLA MARIS
As the maritime industry continues to evolve, Stella Maris remains vigilant in identifying emerging challenges and opportunities for seafarer wellbeing. From the impact of reduced shore leave to the implications of increased automation, Stella Maris stands at the forefront, advocating for policies that prioritise seafarers’ welfare and ensure a sustainable future for the maritime workforce.
The charity is committed to advocating for seafarers’ wellbeing, providing support and addressing the evolving challenges faced by those who dedicate their lives to the maritime industry. Collaboration, advocacy, and a commitment to wellbeing form the foundation of this organisation’s mission, ensuring seafarers receive the support they need in the constantly changing landscape of the maritime industry.