To maximise success and make the best use of resources, ship managers should undertake a situational analysis and review the current status against the wellbeing implementation plan before implementing the programmes designed to be undertaken onboard.
Mental wellbeing information and guidance for managers can be implemented at any point but would ideally take place before, or concurrent to, the roll out of any shipboard programmes.
Prior to engaging crews with the content of any of the mental wellbeing programmes, it is important that ship managers review the content of Professional Care Provision as a minimum, and consider how this is implemented in their company.
Championing Mental Health, and Peer to Peer support programme guides also provide suggestions on how networks and structures can be established to support the delivery and implementation of enhanced wellbeing for seafarers.
The suggestions in all three programmes above, can be developed and adapted to fit the size and culture of any shipping company.
The shipboard programmes are then ideally implemented in the following order to maximise benefit for the seafarers. Industry partnering and support resources can be used at any time to support the other programmes.
- Let's Talk
- Fatigue risk management
- Individual awareness
- Leadership for crew wellbeing (Captains and Chief Engineers)
How to use each shipboard programme
Let’s Talk
The Let’s Talk programme consists of four modules which can be delivered in a small group setting, led by a facilitator. Each module takes approximately 30 minutes.
A recommended way to deliver the modules is included on page 6 - 8 of the facilitators guide. Facilitators must be aware of the company support systems (professional care provision) already in place before delivering any sessions, so that they can to signpost participants to the resources available.
A handout for participants (print on short edge, booklet style) and a visual display poster to support discussions during module 1, are also available to download.
Fatigue risk management
This programme includes information and accompanying scenarios to review and consider. The information can be read individually or done as a group activity. The accompanying exercises should be hosted by a facilitator and conducted in pairs or small groups. Instructions for delivery can be found on page 2 of the facilitators guide.
A takeaway activity is included at the end of the programme for individuals to reflect on changes they may wish to make in their own behaviours, to better manage the risk of fatigue.
Individual Awareness
This programme includes two volumes each with four modules containing information, with associated tasks. They are designed for individual reflection or small groups, they are used to develop seafarers own skills and awareness. We recommend they are worked through in order but can also be prioritised according to individual preference / needs.
The modules should be completed in small groups if individuals are comfortable to share personal feelings, lead by a facilitator. Materials can be adapted for larger audiences for example at seafarer conferences.
Note for Captains and Chief Engineers, the Leadership for Crew Wellbeing programme builds on the knowledge and skills from the Individual Awareness programme, which should therefore be undertaken first.
Leadership Skills for Crew Wellbeing
You should undertake the Individual Awareness and Let’s Talk programmes before commencing Leadership Skills for Crew Wellbeing.
This programme builds on the earlier learning in three short, audio-visual modules. The modules should be completed in order. The material is primarily aimed at Masters and Chief Engineers but can be completed by any member of the onboard leadership team.
Unlike other content within this website, the modules need to be downloaded or streamed from ‘YouTube’. They are not available offline due to size constraints.
Be ready to pause the video at key points, as there are reflective elements to each module. Have paper and a pen available to make notes.
Industry Partnering and Support
This programme is an interactive information guide for all to use. It indicates some of the key industry support available for crew members and their families to use. The content is also available as a short presentation which can be downloaded and presented to the crew, to help raise their awareness.