A groundbreaking initiative has been launched by the Seafarers’ Hospital Society (SHS) to provide free feminine hygiene products to women working on ships that dock at ports. The project, which will distribute discreet kits containing menstrual hygiene essentials, aims to address the often-overlooked issue of access to such products for female seafarers.

Spearheaded by SHS, this pilot project is a response to the findings of research supported by the organization into the welfare needs of women serving on cargo vessels. The CEO of SHS, Sandra Welch, emphasized the importance of supporting the health and well-being of women at sea, highlighting the significant impact that a lack of access to menstrual hygiene products can have on a female seafarer’s ability to carry out her duties effectively.

Funded by a generous grant from The TK Foundation and The Seafarers’ Charity, this initiative will see over a thousand hygiene kits provided to women crew members. The kits will be made available at key ports, including the Port of Tilbury and the London International Cruise Terminal. In addition, partnerships with organizations like the QVSR London Tilbury Seafarer Centre will ensure that women on cargo ships calling at Tilbury can also access these essential products.

Deborah Layde, the Chief Executive of The Seafarers’ Charity, highlighted the project’s origins in research that shed light on the specific needs of women working on cargo ships. By addressing these needs, the initiative aims to prompt reflection within the shipping industry on how best to support female crew members, ultimately enhancing retention rates and attracting more women to the maritime sector.

Dennis Treleaven, the Maritime Program Officer at The TK Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for supporting a project that acknowledges the lack of access to feminine hygiene products during extended periods at sea. Recognizing the increasing role of women seafarers across all levels of maritime operations, he hopes that this pilot project will encourage ship owners and managers to prioritize the well-being of all crew members.

In conclusion, this pioneering project not only provides practical support to women at sea but also serves as a catalyst for broader discussions on gender equality and welfare in the maritime industry. By shining a light on the often-unnoticed challenges faced by female seafarers, initiatives like this are instrumental in driving positive change and fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all maritime professionals.