Posted on: 2 April 2020
In response to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Mission to Seafarers has launched the Global Champions Unite campaign. The unprecedented international crisis means that we must all take care of our own welfare and that of our families and loved ones. However, it is at this time when seafarers need help most.
In the words of our Secretary General, Andrew Wright: “Seafarers are struggling in many ways… Many are unable now to finish their contracts on time because they are not allowed into their transit ports. They are having to work on. Some have asked to be released early so they can be with their families – but this is usually not possible now. Some have made it out of the port but have ended up stuck because they cannot get flights home as the airline system collapses. Many are not being allowed off ships, and there is a danger of stigmatisation – as potential disease carriers. Mental health issues will be very real.”
“We need to tell their stories. These men and women are doing truly heroic stuff in keeping our supplies going against a very difficult background. Without them we truly will be stuffed. Perhaps the world may sit up and applaud them for the first time.”
The newly launched virtual challenge campaign is to raise awareness of the plight of seafarers and the funds to contribute towards the Mission to Seafarers’ digital chaplaincy service to help support seafarers at this time. For more information please download the Global Champions Unite Leaflet or visit https://www.missiontoseafarers.org/events/global-champions-unite.
