IMRF honours Britannia P&I at LISW25 for long-standing commitment to crew welfare
Britannia P&I Club was honoured with a Special Recognition Award by the International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) during London International Shipping Week (LISW25), in acknowledgement of its long-term support for crew welfare, maritime safety and the lifesaving mission of the IMRF.
The award was presented at a reception hosted by the IMRF last week at Britannia’s new London offices, an event attended by senior industry leaders, leading maritime charities, and IMRF Patron Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.
Andrew Cutler (pictured, left) CEO of Britannia Group and current chair of the International Group of P&I Clubs, said: “The Britannia Group was delighted to host the IMRF event and highlight the important work the IMRF is doing, as well as bring attention to the collaboration that the Global Maritime Search and Rescue SAR Systems Review will contribute, not only to SAR organisations but also to the wider shipping industry.”
During the event, Sir Tim, who has a decorated and long-standing career supporting maritime SAR charities, reflected on his decades of maritime experience and the ongoing challenges of safety at sea, emphasising that search and rescue is a shared responsibility across the shipping sector. He also welcomed the IMRF’s Global Maritime SAR (Search and Rescue) Systems Review, launched in partnership with Lloyd’s Register Foundation, which will examine the vital role merchant seafarers, ferry crews, fishermen and offshore operators play in saving lives at sea.
Other speakers included Jacob Tas (pictured, right with Britannia Director Ella Hagell, middle), IMRF Chair & CEO of KNRM, who underlined shipping’s duty of care in rescue and highlighted IMRF’s programmes tackling challenges such as climate change, mass rescue operations, and mental health support for rescuers; and Caroline Jupe, IMRF CEO, who stressed that merchant vessels are often the first to respond when lives are at risk and called for stronger collaboration between shipping and SAR organisations worldwide.
The evening concluded with networking, drinks and canapés, with maritime leaders and charities exchanging ideas and strengthening ties.