Seafarer Pledge launched in UK, aiming to transform standards across maritime sector

A pioneering campaign designed to transform standards and recognise the vital contribution of seafarers was marked at a special event held in London this week(1 July). Port authorities, charities, shipowners, commercial organisations and trade unions from across the maritime sector gathered at Norton Rose Fulbright to pledge their support for the Seafarer Pledge, an initiative that honours the UK’s Merchant Navy and those at sea.

Inspired by the Armed Forces Covenant, the Seafarer Pledge sets out a shared commitment to recognise and respect seafarers whose skill, professionalism and service sustain everyday life and keep the UK connected to the world. Seafarers often work globally, far from home and under demanding conditions, yet their contribution can go unseen.

The evening brought together senior leaders from across the sector to recognise the contribution of seafarers and the organisations backing this work. MNWB Deputy CEO Sharon Coveney and maritime consultant Steven Jones, who are the driving force behind the Pledge, addressed guests on how it has been shaped through industry consultation, what it includes, and how it will work in practice.

“We are delighted to reach this point after months of hard work and engagement with the industry,” said Sharon Coveney on behalf of MNWB, the umbrella charity for the UK Merchant Navy and fishing fleets, representing 47 member charities and serving as the UK’s National Seafarers’ Welfare Board. “This Pledge creates a clear and shared framework for organisations to demonstrate their commitment in ways that are both visible and meaningful.”

Steven Jones added: “The Seafarer Pledge gives organisations a way to demonstrate leadership, raise standards and ensure that seafarers are properly respected, supported and given the opportunities they deserve, both at sea and ashore.”

Organisations signing the Pledge will be encouraged to take practical steps, including strengthening career pathways, supporting transitions between sea and shore roles, and raising awareness of maritime skills.

High-profile organisations and charities already to have signed the Pledge include:  90 POE, Associated British Ports, Alabaré, Care Ashore, IDWAL, IMarEST, Isle of Man Maritime, Isle of Man Ship Registry, Liverpool Pilotage Services Limited, Marine Society and Sea Cadets, Merchant Navy Welfare Board, Nautilus International, OneOcean, Propeller Club, Spinnaker, Stella Maris, The Merchant Navy Association, The Mission to Seafarers, Trinity House, Veterans Outreach Support and Warsash Maritime School