The Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) officially launched the UK’s Seafarer Pledge earlier this year in London.

Overview of the Seafarer Pledge

Inspired by the Armed Forces Covenant, it honours the UK Merchant Navy and individuals working at sea.

Its core objectives are to unite maritime organisations, port authorities, shipowners, and trade unions with the view of improving crew welfare, strengthen career progression of seafarers, and ease transitions between sea and shore-based roles.

The Pledge is funded by MNWB, Trinity House, and the Merchant Navy Association, with Steve Jones and Sharon Coveney leading the project

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines became the first cruise operator to officially sign the pledge, highlighting initiatives like dedicated Crew Welfare Officers and onboard youth training programs.

There are currently 120 signatories across the maritime sector, including Spinnaker who are perfectly placed to help advise seafarers on roles ashore, and equally employers on the skills and knowledge that seafarers can bring to shore based positions. Spinnaker have placed many former seafarers in shore-based roles with many jobs being perfectly placed for those with experience at sea. These include Claims roles within P&I clubs, Technical teams within shipowners and Fleet departments within shipmanagers.

You can find out more about the pledge and sign up your organisation here.

Pioneering Pledge aims to transform standards across maritime sector  – Merchant Navy Welfare Board