Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK’s largest port operator, has announced a new initiative to enhance financial support for seafarer welfare facilities across its network of ports.
For several years, ABP’s Humber ports have incorporated a positive default option in their vessel booking system (PAVIS), enabling shipping agents to make voluntary contributions to support the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) and its affiliated charities.
Building on this successful model, ABP has decided to expand this positive default feature across all 21 of its ports throughout Britain.
Starting from 1 January 2025, agents booking vessels at any ABP port will have a straightforward option to contribute to the MNWB and the essential welfare services it provides for seafarers. However, agents will retain the choice to opt-out if they prefer not to contribute.
“In the modern marine environment where ships are facing shorter turnarounds and smaller crews, it is not always possible for seafarers – the unsung heroes behind the 95% of UK trade that moves by water – to get ashore or take shore leave. This makes the work of the charities and seafarer centres even more important to the welfare of seafarers visiting our ports. We are proud that the seafarer welfare facilities in the Humber that have been supported by a positive default contribution have been used as examples by the Merchant Navy Welfare Board,” stated Adam Northover, ABP’s Marine Designated Person and the company’s technical lead for marine matters.
Meanwhile, the MNWB, a UK-based charity organization, plays a crucial role in coordinating and promoting the welfare of seafarers, including those in the merchant navy and fishing fleets. It supports 15 Port Welfare Committees (PWCs) and a National Seafarers’ Welfare Board in Gibraltar, working with a wide range of stakeholders such as the MCA, unions, shipowners, port owners, and welfare organizations. These committees focus on improving welfare provisions within ports and driving positive change.
According to a statement, ABP hopes this initiative will encourage industry-wide support for the MNWB’s vital work, ensuring continued investment in the welfare of seafarers.
“I have said before that we will not leave seafarers behind, and I am delighted to see ABP strengthen their support for the Merchant Navy Welfare Board and its charities. Seafarers deserve our utmost respect and it is great to see the positive default contribution for welfare facilities be extended to ports across the country,” mentioned Mike Kane, Maritime Minister.
