GLOBAL seafarers’ charity Stella Maris has launched a service providing mental health support to Ukrainian crewmembers and their families.
The support service was set up to help seafarers deal with the mental and emotional impact of the war in Ukraine by providing access to professional psychologists.
It is understood Stella Maris has been responding to the war with urgent food supplies, emergency accommodation, transport and free phone cards to help Ukrainian seafarers contact family.
The new mental health service has received support and funding from sector-focused law firm HFW.
“The trauma of living in a war zone, with sporadic missile and drone attacks, cannot be overestimated,” Stella Maris UK CEO Martin Foley said.
“Many seafarers have also been separated from their families which has added to their anxiety.
“This project will ensure seafarers and their families can take mental health action at a critical time, and we offer our sincere thanks to HFW on their behalf.”
And Paul Dean, HFW’s global head of shipping and senior mental health champion, said mental health support is especially important in the current situation.
“Seafarers already have one of the toughest jobs on the planet – a life at sea can mean months away from loved ones, long hours, and some of the roughest weather imaginable.
“But those in Ukraine have also been living with the terrible realities of war, while bravely continuing the vital role all seafarers play in enabling global trade.
“We are proud to be helping Stella Maris in providing them with much-needed mental health support.”
