Sailing Towards Hope: A Look into the Work of Liverpool Seafarers Centre

Ship Welfare Visit to Crew in the Port of Liverpool

Liverpool Seafarers Centre has been providing support to seafarers for more than 150 years. Our mission is to create a safe and welcoming environment at our centre where seafarers from around the world can find practical and emotional support, welfare services, and a sense of community during their time in the port of Liverpool.

In addition to our physical centre, our Ship Welfare visitors go onboard vessels daily to offer support even when time is limited. Our goal is to ensure that seafarers feel valued and supported throughout their journey.

To address the isolation that seafarers often experience, we offer various services. These include free internet access, discounted phone cards, and access to phones and laptops to help seafarers stay connected with their loved ones. We also provide food parcels, assistance with personal matters such as emergency dental treatment and repatriation, and financial support during times of hardship. Our Chaplaincy service and access to a Clinical Psychologist are available for those facing mental health crises.

Our seafarers centre, located in the heart of the Liverpool docklands, provides a warm and welcoming space for mariners to socialize and relax. Our team of staff and volunteers is always available for friendly chats and to provide information about the local area. The centre offers a range of facilities, including a licensed bar, cafe, and shop, recreational facilities such as a pool table and board games, a large screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a library, and outside seating areas.

During the summer season, we operate a Crew Welfare Hub at the Liverpool Cruise Terminal, making it easier for thousands of seafarers to access support without venturing into the city.

We understand the mental health challenges that seafarers face due to their long periods at sea. To address this, we provide acts of kindness and a listening ear. Our Chaplaincy offers comfort and inclusive services for all denominations. Our website also provides useful resources for supporting seafarers' well-being.

Through partnerships, we have implemented health initiatives to educate and promote healthy lifestyles among seafarers. These initiatives include free health check services, education on sexual health, alcohol reduction, and well-being. We also provide dental packs and access to mobile dental surgeries for seafarers' oral health.

We actively engage with industry stakeholders to advocate for the rights and welfare of seafarers. Our participation in thought-provoking podcasts sheds light on the challenges faced by seafarers, reaching a wider audience beyond the maritime industry. By participating in such media coverage, we aim to bring about systemic change and improve conditions for seafarers globally.

Our workforce and volunteers play a crucial role in our center. We are always seeking volunteers who can spare a few hours to help with various tasks, from assisting at the center to driving our minibus or helping with maintenance projects. Volunteer work is flexible and can be a great way to boost your CV.

We are committed to continually improving our services for seafarers. Over the next 12 months, we plan to raise £200K to replace our fleet of minibuses and expand our Seafarers Centre. We have already secured some funding for this venture, indicating the community's commitment and trust in our services.

We rely on the generosity of corporate supporters and volunteers to continue our vital work. There are numerous ways in which the corporate community can support us, including through Corporate Social Responsibility schemes, fundraising, and volunteering initiatives. Donations of communication equipment, warm clothing, food, toiletries, and monetary contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of seafarers and help secure the future of our services.

For further information, please contact John Wilson, our Chief Executive, at 0300 800 8080 or john.wilson@liverpoolseafarerscentre.org.

We are proud to be a member of The International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) and winners of the Diversity and Inclusion category at the 2022 Mersey Maritime Industry Awards.