The Mission to Seafarers

Who we are

Ours is an organisation with a long and proud history.  Today our cause is often less well-understood than was once the case.  Few understand just how dependent we all are on the work of seafarers. Without them most of the necessities and luxuries of life would quickly disappear.

Even fewer understand the very special challenges faced by this particular group of remarkable people.  Amongst these challenges is the simple fact that so many are away from home for so long – living without the normal support structures of family and friends that most of us take for granted.

Our port staff, including chaplains and volunteers, make a profound difference.  They respond to emergency, support in crisis, take forward advocacy, ensure hospitality (through our huge network of centre facilities), provide transport, link seafarers with local communities and visit ships, as well as hospitals and prisons.  Theirs is a remarkable work.  In addition, we have an exciting range of projects, including our family support networks.  We are a truly global charity, operating in 50 countries and around 200 ports – through a network of nine regions.

At IHQ in London we are committed to the provision of appropriate leadership and support.

Our simple mission is to care for the shipping industry’s most important asset: its people.

Our vision for the world’s 1.6 million seafarers of all ranks, nationalities and beliefs is to;

• operate a network of services where seafarers are valued and cared for in the ports where the need is greatest, thus improving and safeguarding their wellbeing;
• be in the right ports with the right resources offering support which is relevant, compassionate and life enhancing;
• meet the needs of all seafarers and their families, irrespective of faith or cultural background.