Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) (2026)

18/12/2025

Yesterday Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)'s Manager, Michael Edwards had the pleasure of attending the Queen Victoria Seafarers Rest (QVSR) Annual Christmas Carol Service, an event that for Michael, truly marks the start of the Christmas season.

The service did not disappoint. QVSR's CEO Alexander Campbell OBE led a thoughtful and engaging reflection that powerfully reinforced the true message of Christmas: community, compassion, and collective action to make a real difference in the lives of seafarers. It was a timely reminder of why our work across the maritime welfare sector matters so much.

As always, the service also provided a valuable opportunity to reconnect with colleagues across the sector including the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) team CEO Stuart Rivers, Deputy CEO Sharon Coveney, Chair Andrew Cassels and QVSR CEO Alexander Campbell OBE and we reflected on the challenges and priorities we face in the year ahead.

Sincere thanks to Alexander Campbell OBE and the entire QVSR team for such a warm and welcoming Christmas service.

At Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL), we remain committed to working in close collaboration with partners across the sector to support seafarers and their families — at Christmas and throughout the year.

05/12/2025

Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)'s Manager, Michael Edwards was pleased to attend the The Workboat Association AGM in Leeds in November and honoured to be invited as guest speaker. Sincere thanks to Kerrie Forster AFNI, CEO of The Workboat Association, for the opportunity to present to the membership.

It was a chance to raise awareness of Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) and the support we provide to those who work and have worked at sea, as well as their families. I spoke with vessel owners, operators and company representatives, encouraging them to spread the word to their crews and colleagues about our service.

It was also an opportunity to make new connections and gain deeper insight into the challenges facing the UK workboat sector, especially the need to attract more young people into maritime careers and the technological and operational changes shaping the industry.

Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) places a strong emphasis on collaboration and partnership. Our relationship with The Workboat Association is an important example of that and I would like to extend a special thank-you to Tina Barnes of The Seafarers’ Charity for the introduction and support in building this connection.

This forum was an ideal space to strengthen existing partnerships and explore new ones, ensuring we continue to meet the needs of seafarers and their families.

07/11/2025

Sailing Forward: Reflections from Scotland in Fishing News

We are pleased to share that Fishing News has included a two-page feature on Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) Manager, Michael Edwards' recent trip to Scotland, exploring how Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) can strengthen our support for Scottish fishing communities and deepen partnerships with the welfare organisations already doing vital work on the ground.

A sincere thank you to Martin Harvey, Editor of Fishing News, for taking interest in the story and for providing a platform to highlight the realities facing fishers and their families, as well as the collaborative work happening across the sector.

This article reflects just a small part of the conversations, connections, and community spirit Michael experienced across Scotland, from Peterhead and Fraserburgh to the West Coast and beyond. Michael remains deeply grateful for the warmth of the welcome, the honesty of the discussions and the commitment shared by everyone working to support those who make their living at sea.

If you would like to read the article, you can find it below.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey so far and to those we look forward to working alongside in the months ahead.

23/09/2025

Last Thursday, Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) Adviser David Gosney attended the Sea Fit Health event organised by The Fishermen's Mission at Cromer.

Local fishermen had been out from the early morning working but came to see David and other service providers as they arrived back during the day.

The free dental health checkup mobile unit brought by DENTAID The Dental Charity was a definite draw and the work done for free on one fisherman's tooth, the dentist told me, would have cost around £300 if he had gone private so that was an amazing result.

David spoke with a number of fishermen (some seen on the picture by their boats) one of whom was already getting advice from Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) and others who took our contact cards in case they wanted advice in the future.

Colleagues from Smoke Free Norfolk and The Hepatitis C Trust were also present.

The day was warm, rain free, and as always just about letting fishermen know the services, Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) and others, who are out there to help when needed

20/09/2025

⚓Sailing Forward: Collaboration in Action from Grangemouth to Edinburgh⚓

On Thursday - Michael Edwards' final full day in Scotland, he attended the Central and West Scotland Port Welfare Committee (PWC), which also served as their AGM. It was a valuable session and a great opportunity to reconnect with colleagues Michael first met at the start of this Scotland trip.

Congratulations to Iain Lindsay, newly elected Chair of this committee. It was a pleasure for Michael to spend time with him, learning more about his work with the Nautilus Welfare Fund and his role in steering this important forum.

It was equally valuable for Michael to catch up with John Hood of Stella Maris - Apostleship of the Sea and Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) — thank you, John, for sharing your insight and experience with Michael throughout his journey. Michael was also pleased to hear updates from Revd Joseph O'Donnell on the vital work Stella Maris - Apostleship of the Sea continues to provide for seafarers in Scotland.

Reconnecting with Louise Liddell of Fishermen's Mission was especially meaningful, as Michael Edwards and Louise Liddell spoke about how the survivors of last week’s sunken fishing boat are coping and what support may still be required. Michael was also delighted to meet Becky Haldane of the Sailors' Society and learn more about the ways her organisation supports seafarers in need.

A big thank you to the Stella Maris - Apostleship of the Sea team for providing a wonderful lunch after the AGM, which gave space for some informal conversations and networking.

From Grangemouth, Michael travelled to Edinburgh for the final leg of his Scottish journey to meet with Leon Fisher BSc MIoL TechIOSH of Vector24 at their office in New Haig House. It was great for Michael to catch up properly after their successful launch event last week and to discuss in detail how Vector24 and Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) can collaborate to meet the needs of our shared Scottish clients. Michael looks forward to continuing these conversations with Leon in the weeks ahead.

As Michael drove towards Edinburgh, passing stunning landscapes and catching sight of the famous Forth Bridge in the distance, he reflected on how much he has learned during this trip. The people he has met, the communities he's engaged with and the insights he’ll be taking back have been invaluable.

Preparing for the drive back to London on Friday, Michael Edwards remains deeply grateful for the warmth of the welcome he's received here in Scotland, and for the partnerships — old and new — that will help Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) strengthen its support for seafarers and their families.

19/09/2025

⚓Sailing Forward: Strengthening Seafarer Welfare in Fraserburgh⚓

On Wednesday Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)'s Manager, Michael Edwards travelled from Peterhead to Fraserburgh to attend the Port Welfare Committee (PwC), facilitated by the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB). These committees take place at ports across the UK, bringing together local and national stakeholders to collaborate on the safety and welfare of seafarers.

When Michael Edwards first began planning this Scottish tour, one of the first people he spoke to was Sharon Coveney, Deputy CEO of Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB), whose advice was invaluable. It was Sharon who suggested Michael attend the two Scottish PwCs during his visit and he is very grateful for that guidance.

Holding today’s meeting in Fraserburgh felt especially fitting. As one of Scotland’s most important fishing ports, Fraserburgh has long been at the heart of the country’s fishing industry, and it provided the perfect setting for meaningful discussions on seafarer welfare.

It was a pleasure for Michael to reconnect with Darren McHattie, Area Officer for The Fishermen's Mission, who yesterday so generously showed Michael around Peterhead Harbour. Michael also valued connecting with Reverend Doug Duncan of Stella Maris - Apostleship of the Sea along with the chance to present to the wider committee about Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)’s role in Scotland — raising awareness of our national helpline and exploring opportunities to replicate the strong partnership working - already underway with organisations like The Fishermen's Mission and Stella Maris - Apostleship of the Sea.

Michael particularly enjoyed meeting new contacts, including Mrs Sharon Cooper, of The Scottish White Fish Producers Association (SWPFA) and PwC chair. The SWFPA represents the interests of Scotland’s whitefish fleet — the largest in Europe — championing sustainability, quality, and the voice of fishers at both national and international level. Sharon and Michael also discovered a personal link, as she hails from his own part of the world in South Wales!

Driving between meetings the weather was kind and Michael was struck again by the beauty of the Scottish countryside — the wide skies, rugged coastline, and rolling fields a reminder of the heritage and resilience of the communities Michael has been visiting.

As Michael journeyed south to Stirling ahead of tomorrow’s PwC in Grangemouth, he reflected on the rich seafaring culture he has been privileged to witness on this tour. Michael looks forward to returning but for now remains grateful for the chance to share Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)’s work, strengthen existing partnerships and build new ones in support of Scotland’s seafarers and their families.

17/09/2025

Sailing Forward: Arriving in Peterhead, The UK’s largest whitefish and pelagic fishing port ⚓

After a weekend of exploring Scotland’s seafaring history, Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)'s manager, Michael Edwards travelled to Peterhead — home to the UK’s busiest whitefish port — where he had the pleasure of spending the day with Darren McHattie, Area Officer for The Fishermen's Mission.

Darren gave Michael the warmest of welcomes and it was inspiring to learn about his role, his responsibilities across the region and the trust he has built with the fishing community during his four years in post.

Michael was impressed by the Peterhead Centre and Welfare Office, which provides not only a café and community hub but also overnight accommodation for fishers who may need a bed ashore while their boats are undergoing maintenance in the harbour’s dry dock. It was clear how vital these facilities are for supporting crews in practical ways.

Michael and Darren also walked around the harbour, where the sheer scale of the fishing fleet struck Michael from small boats to large vessels like the Lunar Bow, which felt more like a floating hotel than a trawler. Compared to other fishing docks Michael has visited around the UK, Peterhead is thriving, yet as Darren explained, the fleet and activity are still only a fraction of what they once were. The decline is real and the challenges for the industry and its people remain significant.

Peterhead is also home to Amity Fish Company, founded by Jimmy Buchan, whose story many will remember from the BBC series Trawlermen. His journey from skipper to business owner reflects both the heritage and the resilience of this community.

Throughout the day, Darren shared powerful examples of how The Fishermen's Mission supports not only active crews but also retired fishers and their families. Offering practical, emotional, and spiritual care in times of need, the Mission remains an anchor for the entire fishing community.

Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) is proud to work alongside The Fishermen's Mission in delivering services and support to fishing communities across Scotland and the UK, ensuring fishers and their families can access the specialist advice they need, when they need it most.

16/09/2025

Sailing Forward: From Oban to Peterhead via Fort William⚓️

As Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)'s Manager, Michael Edwards said goodbye to Oban and made his way north-east, he was struck once again by the sheer beauty of Scotland — even under grey skies and rain. Passing lochs, mountains, and rolling hills on the road to Fort William, Michael was reminded of how lucky he is to experience this remarkable landscape as part of his journey.

Although Sunday meant no formal meetings, Michael took the opportunity to explore some of Fort William’s rich maritime history. First stop was Neptune’s Staircase — a remarkable series of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal. Built in the early 1800s by Thomas Telford, it remains the longest staircase lock in Britain. Its construction transformed travel and trade in the Highlands, linking inland waterways to the sea and opening up opportunities for seafarers and communities alike.

Michael also visited the West Highland Museum, which is full of fascinating artifacts. Among the most moving was the original White Ensign flown on HMS Cleveland, a Type I destroyer launched in 1940 that served through the Second World War. The museum also displays relics from the Spanish Armada galleon “Florida,” which sank in Tobermory Bay in 1588 — including coins, pewterware, and wood splinters that tell the story of how international events touched even these remote Scottish shores.

One of the more surprising stories Michael came across was the St Kilda mailboat system of the late 1890s. Islanders would place letters into a small wooden box, attach it to a float made of a sheep’s bladder, and cast it into the sea in the hope that currents would carry it to its destination. Perhaps not the most reliable postal service ever devised — but at the time, it was a their connection with the outside world.

Leaving Fort William, Michael reflected on how much history is held in these towns and how central the sea has been to their story. From naval destroyers to Spanish galleons, from canal engineering to makeshift mailboats — the resilience and resourcefulness of Scotland’s coastal communities is inspiring.

From there, Michael made the four-hour journey north-east to Peterhead, excited to begin his final week in Scotland. Over the coming days Michael will be meeting with local partners, listening, and learning more about the needs of seafaring communities on the east coast.

15/09/2025

Sailing Forward: Learning from Oban’s Maritime Roots ⚓️

This past weekend, Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)'s Manager Michael Edwards made his way to Oban, taking in the rugged beauty of Scotland in the rain — lochs, gray skies, and mist-cloaked hills — all adding to the raw charm of the place. Although Michael didn’t have formal meetings, he visited the War & Peace Museum and immersed himself in Oban’s fishing and naval heritage, which left a strong impression.

At the museum Michael saw a photograph showing 'Fisher Lassies', women who worked gutting and packing herring on the shore, following the fleets during herring season. Their craftsmanship, endurance, and community were astonishing. It’s a reminder of how much of our modern seafaring and fishing support rests on the sacrifices and effort of people often overlooked.

The weather may have been grey and some photos less picturesque than hoped, but what struck Michael was how the sense of history here, the lives tied to the sea and the enduring resilience of seafaring communities are every bit as powerful as any formal meeting.

After Oban, Michael moved on to Fort William, continuing his journey through Scotland’s coastal communities. Michael is looking forward to what he’ll learn next — the stories, the people, and how services like Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) can honour these traditions while supporting today’s seafarers and families.

13/09/2025

Sailing Forward: Strengthening Support for Children of the Royal Navy ⚓️

After a powerful day with Louise Liddell at The Fishermen's Mission in Troon, Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) Manager, Michael Edwards travelled north through Scotland’s breathtaking countryside on his way to Helensburgh. Passing lochs and mountains was a reminder of how stunning and remote Scotland can be, and it set the perfect scene for his next visit.

There, Michael met with Allison Donnelly, Caseworker for the Naval Children's Charity (NCC). Established over 200 years ago, the NCC has a proud history of supporting the children of those who serve and have served in the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Today it continues that legacy, offering practical, emotional, and financial support to ensure no naval child faces disadvantage because of their parent’s service.

As a naval wife, Allison brings unique insight to her role. Having “walked the walk,” she understands the pressures families face and can offer an informed and empathetic perspective. We discussed how the cost-of-living crisis is adding extra strain — from sudden car repairs to the financial pressures of welcoming a new baby. These everyday events can quickly tip families into hardship. In such times, Allison and the NCC step in with meaningful support, allowing serving personnel to focus on their duties knowing home life is cared for.

In just two years, Allison has laid strong foundations for the NCC in Scotland. With further investment in the UK’s submariner fleet bringing more families to the area, her work could not be more timely. Families often arrive far from support networks, needing to navigate new schools, systems, and communities — and the NCC is well-placed to help.

Michael and Allison also spoke about how Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)’s national helpline complements the NCC’s work, from guiding families through benefits to offering immediate debt advice. Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) is proud to partner with the NCC so families get help when they need it most.

A big thank you to Allison for her warm welcome and for sharing both her expertise and personal insight. Her passion for supporting naval families shines through, and Michael Edwards looks forward to building on this partnership.

After Helensburgh Michael travelled on to Oban, often called the Seafood Capital of Scotland. Famous for its fresh catch, bustling harbour, and rich seafaring heritage, Michael is looking forward to exploring Oban further and continuing his journey of learning from Scotland’s maritime communities.

12/09/2025

Sailing Forward: Standing with Fishing Communities in Difficult Times ⚓️

Yesterday Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) Manager, Michael Edwards had planned to spend a few hours with Louise Liddell, Area Officer at the Fishermen's Mission Centre in Troon, to learn more about her role, meet with some local fishermen, and join her on potential home visits with clients she supports.

However, plans quickly changed following the tragic sinking of a local fishing vessel the night before. Louise’s immediate priority became visiting the survivors, offering a supportive presence, connecting them with agencies who could help in this time of crisis, and ensuring that counselling services were available through The Fishermen's Mission.

One of the services Louise highlighted was Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL), ensuring survivors who are now unable to fish and therefore without wages, could be supported to apply for state benefits through Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)'s specialist advisers. This in turn, would open the door to emergency grant applications to help them manage the sudden financial uncertainty, replace lost belongings and give them space to focus on recovery and the investigations that lie ahead.

Michael was truly in awe of Louise’s response. With calm professionalism, empathy and determination, she demonstrated the heart of what The Fishermen's Mission does every day: providing practical, emotional, and spiritual support to fishing communities in their times of greatest need. It was a stark reminder of the very real dangers faced daily by those who work at sea to provide for their families and feed our communities.

When Michael's own role feels challenging, he can only reflect on the unimaginable reality of a fisher making a desperate call to their loved ones as their boat goes under sharing what could potentially be their last words to each other. The courage and risks taken by those at sea deserve our utmost respect.

Spending time with Louise Liddell on such a sensitive and difficult day was both humbling and inspiring. For someone who has been in her role little more than a year, her passion, creativity and dedication to building trust and offering support within fishing communities is remarkable.

Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) is proud to work alongside The Fishermen's Mission, ensuring that fishers and their families can access the services and support they need when they need it most. Yesterday was a powerful reminder of the breadth of care area officers provide in their communities, and the difference made when organisations collaborate.

Today Michael will be travelling to meet with Allison Donnelly, Caseworker with the Naval Children's Charity, to learn more about her role and to better understand the needs of families and children connected to Scotland’s Royal Naval community. Michael looks forward to continuing this journey of listening, learning, and strengthening support for seafaring communities across Scotland.

11/09/2025

Sailing Forward: Promoting SAIL and Building New Partnerships ⚓️

Last night Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)'s Manager, Michael Edwards had the privilege of attending the launch of Vector24, a new initiative dedicated to supporting the health, wellbeing, and resilience of serving personnel, veterans and their families across Scotland.

It was an honour for Michael to be invited to join partners and stakeholders for this special occasion. A huge thank you to Leon Fisher BSc MIoL TechIOSH, Director of Operations, and Marie Crombie MIoL, DipIW, CMs COSCA, CEO of Vector24 for the warm welcome and for hosting such an engaging and thought-provoking event.

Michael was truly impressed Vector24’s ambitious vision for the future. In particular he found Marie’s focus on sustainable recovery models for veterans to be inspiring, a clear example of forward-thinking leadership that places people and long-term impact at the heart of the organisation’s mission.

A highlight of the evening was the moving testimonial shared by Brigadier Andy M. ADC RM, which powerfully illustrated how services like Vector24 can come together to meet the unique and urgent needs of serving personnel. He spoke about a Royal Navy serviceman, struck down with a significant and life-changing diagnosis at the peak of his physical fitness. Having identified specialist treatment but unsure how to travel to the treatment centre, Vector24 created a bespoke support package that enabled him to access the care he needed, exactly when he needed it most.

Michael also enjoyed meaningful discussions with Eric Fraser (Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity) and Mhari and Marie Crombie MIoL, DipIW, CMs COSCA (Vector24) about future partnership opportunities. It was encouraging to reflect on how, by working together we can expand our reach and ensure the needs of Scottish serving personnel, their families, and the wider seafaring communities are placed firmly at the centre of our efforts.

The event was also an excellent opportunity to promote the work of Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL) and raise awareness of our national helpline, which provides a vital point of contact for those who work and serve at sea, along with their families. Through this service, seafarers can access SAIL’s specialist advisers for free, independent and confidential advice - something I look forward to exploring further in conversations with Marie and Leon next week.

Equally, it was a pleasure to reconnect with colleagues and strengthen existing partnerships. I was delighted to catch up with Michael (Sam) Allardyce and Emma Gration from the The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust and we had valuable discussions about the needs of Scotland’s Royal Navy and Royal Marines community. These connections are so important and by working side by side, we can ensure that the broad maritime community in Scotland receives the tailored support it deserves.

Events like this are a reminder that collaboration is key. Just as with SAIL, success lies in building strong partnerships that put people first.

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Tuesday	10:00 - 16:00
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Thursday	10:00 - 16:00
Friday	10:00 - 16:00

Seafarers' Advice and Information Line (SAIL)

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