In 2021, ISWAN joined forces with The Shipowners’ Club to launch ISWAN for Seafarers, a mobile app which offers a direct line to ISWAN's 24-hour helplines and offline access to resources for seafarers.
No internet connection needed*
The app does not use data when open and seafarers can access information and resources at any time while at sea or ashore.
Instant access to 24-hour help and support
Via the touch of a button in the app, seafarers can contact one of ISWAN's free, confidential, international helplines: SeafarerHelp (for all seafarers and their families) and Yacht Crew Help (for professional yacht crew).
Useful information and resources specifically for seafarers
...including ISWAN’s self-help health materials, access to ISWAN’s Seafarer Centre Directory, and guidance on topics such as contract issues, abandonment, and bullying and harassment.
Latest news and articles
The app features a blog containing recent articles on seafarers' welfare-related news and topics, which can be refreshed when an internet connection is available.
Feedback from seafarers
Seafarers who have used the ISWAN for Seafarers app** have said:
‘…all of the necessary information readily available in one app! If I ever need help again, I'll go straight to this app’
‘…any seafarer can now seek assistance without involving anyone on the ship’
‘very user friendly’
‘I liked everything about the app and I would definitely recommend it to others’
What do you think of this app? Is there anything we could improve, or have you spotted something that isn’t working properly? Please send your feedback to iswan@iswan.org.uk.
*Please note that an internet connection or phone signal is needed to contact ISWAN's helplines via the ISWAN for Seafarers app.
**We contacted a small group of seafarers who tested the ISWAN for Seafarers app while it was in the final stages of development.
A free, 24-hour, multilingual helpline for seafarers and their families worldwide
A free, 24-hour, multilingual helpline for professional yacht crew worldwide
Providing humanitarian support to seafarers and their families in South and South East Asia
Helping shipping and ship management companies to improve social interaction on board
Spotting the signs and responding to concerns
We offer support to seafarers and their families affected by maritime piracy
We launched the results of our survey of superyacht crew in London on 3rd December 2018
Anonymous story-sharing for seafarers facing problems at work
A guide for shipping companies and ship operators to develop and implement mental health policies
Recognising excellence in seafarers’ welfare provision across the shipping industry
Discouraging Indian seafarers from signing up with unregistered crewing agencies
We provide shipping companies and seafarers with information on staying healthy on board
A free training package suitable for both individual viewing by all crew and training sessions onboard and ashore
A project aiming to encourage and support the establishment of welfare boards worldwide
Providing seafarers with the right tools and information to keep hydrated on board
A joint initiative looking at the health of women seafarers and where it can be improved
Sharing photography by seafarers all over the world