Throughout the pandemic, South Tees Mission has worked closely with Stella Maris to visit every ship at the gangway with essential items of toiletries, clothes, telephone top up cards, chocolates and biscuits and also to provide a constant listening ear – albeit at a social distance.

Recently they have offered every seafarer the opportunity to go for vaccination, assisted by Port Health, NHS and Emergency Planning colleagues.

As restrictions reduce, more needs to be done; to take seafarers to the shops; to the Centre; to give them that home from home again. However the pandemic has affected volunteer numbers and they now need to increase their volunteer base again with both drivers of their beautiful Renault Trafic and being with seafarers in their newly decorated, bright and clean Centre. They have Covid-19 precautions in place and a full training regime.

Working with seafarers is that pivotal link to maritime education, experience and employment.

Volunteering could be three hours per week, or a fortnight, or a month, whatever fits. If this appeals, please call Alèxe Finlay on 07876 705550 or contact alexe@harbourmanagementsolutions.co.uk