Seafarers Hospital Society Launches Pilot Project Supporting Women at Sea

The Seafarers’ Hospital Society (SHS), a charity focused on the health and welfare of seafarers in the UK, has introduced a pilot project to offer free feminine hygiene products to women working at sea. The initiative aims to fill a gap in current onboard facilities and welfare services, which often overlook the specific healthcare needs of female seafarers. Sandra Welch, CEO of SHS, emphasized the importance of addressing this issue to support the well-being of women at sea and promote gender equality in the maritime industry.

Funded by a £25,000 grant from the TK Foundation and The Seafarers’ Charity, the project will provide 1030 feminine hygiene kits to women seafarers in the UK. Over the next year, SHS plans to distribute discreet bags containing a variety of menstrual products at the London International Cruise Terminal and the Port of Tilbury. Deborah Layde, Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity, underscored the project’s significance in filling a critical need identified through research conducted by the Seafarers’ International Research Centre.

Women seafarers often face challenges in obtaining an adequate supply of menstrual health products while working onboard ships. Limited access, short notice contract extensions, and restrictions on shore leave can exacerbate the difficulty of obtaining these essential items. The lack of menstrual hygiene products can lead to stress, discomfort, and hinder women from effectively carrying out their duties at sea. To address this critical issue, the pilot project aims to raise awareness and encourage shipping companies to better support their female crew members for improved well-being and retention rates.

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