The Seafarers International Relief Fund has called for feedback on what more needs to be done to support seafarers impacted by the Ukraine crisis.
In an effort to review the effectiveness of the response so far and to plan for the future, the Seafarers International Relief Fund (SIRF), together with the Ukraine Charity Co-ordination Group, have launched a survey. It is calling on individuals and organisations in the maritime and welfare sectors to share their experiences on the support given so far to those affected by the Ukraine crisis and the ongoing needs of seafarers.
SIRF launched the SIRF Ukraine appeal in March 2022 and has so far raised over $400,000 to support seafarers and their families impacted by the humanitarian disaster caused by the crisis in Ukraine.
SIRF continues to call for urgent donations to support its work. Thanks to the generous support already received, SIRF has delivered aid in the form of the most essential human needs, including shelter, food, water, transport, and access to medical services, but more is needed. SIRF’s support has been delivered by a wide range of maritime charities, trade unions and other non-profit organisations working in the region.
However, it now seems likely that the conflict will continue for some time, and the process of rebuilding lives, homes and communities will take even longer. For that reason, SIRF and the Ukraine Charity Co-ordination Group is conducting a survey to understand what is needed, where the gaps are, and how it can best respond. The results of the survey will help the seafarer welfare community to develop its longer-term strategy for supporting seafarers affected by the conflict.
Speaking on behalf of SIRF, Deborah Layde, Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity, commented:
