Hero Sailors Discover Changing Mental Health and Saving Lives at Sea

Nine British sailors were today awarded the prestigious Merchant Navy Medal for saving lives at sea and advocating for mental health.

Steven Jones, 52, from The Wirral, received the award for his work in tackling mental health issues among seafarers. Steven created the Maritime Happiness Index (SHI) in 2015, which measures sentiment across the maritime sector and helps shipping companies and shipping associations provide targeted support where needed.

Thanks to Steven’s work, the Index has shed light on the impact of this epidemic on seafarers’ mental health, which has shown steady improvement since its inception.

A lifelong champion of seafarers’ rights, in 2017 Steven campaigned to help bring home the Chennai Six – a group of six British seafarers wrongfully imprisoned in an Indian prison . He helped rally the maritime industry into action, raising the profile of the six men imprisoned and exposing the injustice and harsh conditions they faced.

Maritime Minister Mike Kane said:

“It is wonderful to see these nine wonderful sailors receive this very special Award – the highest in the industry.

“Their dedication, courage and strength are inspiring and reflect the best of UK sailing.

“I am proud to celebrate these people, along with the many sailors who contribute so much to our country, here and abroad.”

Steven Jones wrote:

“I am delighted to receive the Merchant Water Award. It is very important that seafarers have a voice, be heard by the industry and be seen by the public.

“I’m delighted to be able to shine a light on the important work that seafarers do and I will continue to support it in the years to come.”

Also receiving the award are four sailors who went above and beyond the call of duty and put the safety of others before their own.

Captain Richard Gascoyne Kirby from Exeter and his rescue team of three sailors – Coxswain Ben Owen Bramwell from Leicestershire, Trystan Tanner from Bicester and Bosun Ashley Oliver West from Worcester, responded to the distress call when the ship was sinking what was on the coast of Italy provides it. May.

As the only ship able to go there without the help of the Greek coast guard, the brave crew made the dangerous journey in the Mediterranean in the dark of night and rescued more than 100 people to safety .

Captain Richard Gascoyne Kirkby said:

“After fifty years at sea from Cadet to Master Mariner, working and living in an industry I care passionately about, I am honored and humbled to receive such a prestigious award.

“The award belongs to every member of my team who saved 100 lives last year near Greece in terrible conditions.

“This award serves as a reminder that as sailors we may be called upon at any time to help others, and I accept it on behalf of all those dedicated to the safety of life at sea.”

The UK Government is committed to improving the welfare of seafarers and is working closely with charities, including Maritime UK, on ​​projects to improve the welfare of seafarers at sea and at sea.

Sharon Coveney, Deputy Chief Executive of the Water Welfare Board (MWN), said:

“We are proud and blessed to have dedicated seafarers who work hard to keep the world economy going.

“All nine recipients are unsung heroes and deserve an award of this stature – we are delighted for them all. Their unwavering commitment and loyalty to the industry is truly inspiring.”

Ben Bailey, Program Director at The Mission to Seafarers, said:

“The Merchant Navy Medal highlights the best of the British and Commonwealth seafarers. Steven Jones has been instrumental in shaping the debate on seafarers’ mental health, and ensuring that the profession changes. building a sustainable workforce and meeting their health needs.

“The Mission to Seafarers is pleased to have worked with Steven on many issues over the years, most notably the Seafarers Happiness Index which continues to measure the importance of social change in our industry. Congratulations to Steven and all the recipients of this important national honor. ”

The annual Merchant Marine Day takes place on Monday, September 3, and celebrates the contributions and critical role of the merchant navy in global trade and national security. The Merchant Navy is made up of British merchant ships that transport goods and people in times of peace and war.

Recipients of the Navy Medal for Distinguished Service will receive their award on November 5 at a ceremony with HRH Princess Anne.

The 2024 recipients are:

• Mr Mark Bobby for services to training and education
• Mr Ben Owen Bramwell for services to support, safety and rescue
• Captain Richard Gascoyne Kirkby for services to support, welfare and rescue
• Mr Steven Mark Jones for services to safety, welfare and training
• Director Jeremy Kirwan Mooney for services to innovation, training and education
• Captain Nicholas Lee for services to safety, training and education
• Captain Louise Sara for services to welfare, safety, diversity and inclusion
• Mr Trystan Tanner for services to support, welfare and rescue
• Mr Ashley Oliver West for services to support, welfare and rescue