The Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) Quarter 2 2021 results reflect the need for wider vaccination programmes

The Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) Quarter 2 2021 results are a measure of the happiness level of seafarers amidst the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic, with severe global and maritime industry issues again being brought to the fore.

Unfortunately, the latest Seafarers Happiness Index from the Mission to Seafarers paints a harrowing picture, revealing a grim picture of seafarer welfare with overall happiness dropping to an all-time low since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Seafarers were frustrated of being constantly in the same environment and this quarter’s report has reflected the need for wider vaccination programmes via three core themes;

• the ban of shore leave in ports,
• the continued delay in keyworker status and,
• minimal movement for crew.

Captain Yves Vandenborn, Director of Loss Prevention at the Standard Club, comments:

'It is really worrying to see the sharp drop in the Happiness Index this quarter with seafarers raising several major issues at the root of their displeasure. We call upon all key stakeholders to put action to word and take care of our seafarers. After all, without the seafarers, we would not have ships plying the oceans or food on our shelves. Ship owners/managers need to ensure that ships are properly manned and that seafarers’ mental, physical and social wellbeing are provided for. This pandemic is far from over and even with vaccination rates rising worldwide, we are seeing an increase in positive cases on board. This is not the time to be letting our seafarers down!'

Here is a quick breakdown of this quarter’s report.

Stay tuned to this space as we unpack Q2 results, piece together the seafarer condition and what implications this has for all of us.  

The Loss Prevention department at Standard Club is dedicated to improving seafarer welfare, and testament to that commitment, the club is a signatory on the Neptune Declaration on Seafarer Wellbeing and Crew Change as well as a proud sponsor of the Seafarers Happiness Index, a report by Mission to Seafarers.

Category: Loss Prevention