The Mission to Seafarers has launched its new 2023 Flying Angel Campaign with the goal of raising $700,000 (c. €£659,414) to respond to the changing needs of seafarers’ welfare.

The Mission to Seafarers says the funds generated will enable the charity to maintain its vital lifeline to seafarers and their families and to further expand into new services in response to the evolving global needs.

Jan Webber, director of development at The Mission to Seafarers, said, “Seafarers’ welfare needs are continuing to evolve. Without the Mission, many seafarers would suffer more mental health and emotional issues, so we believe we are contributing to the safety of seafaring globally, but we need the funds to do this.”

Webber continued, “The range of funds available will ensure we reach seafarers in ports and centres, but also raise awareness as new generations of seafarers join the 1.7-million workforce, so they too can access our services more immediately. If we can provide mental health support to just a few seafarers, and this helps save lives, then we will have achieved our goal.”

Proceeds from the Flying Angel Campaign 2023 will be used for the Ship Visiting Fund, the development of ship visiting programmes in new and existing locations. The aim is to reach more seafarers and enhance the mental health first aid training of frontline staff, including that of suicide awareness.

The Seafarers Centres Fund will also receive proceeds to maximise sustainable and…