VIKAND, a global leader in maritime healthcare, has been nominated for the 2024 Crew Welfare Service Provider Award, which aims to reward any organisation that delivers a service which contributes towards improving crew welfare and fostering crew safety.  

Mental Health  

Mental illness is a leading threat to crew wellness. Safeguarding the ongoing mental wellbeing of crew members is crucial for maintaining a safe and highly productive onboard environment.   

Through a suite of specially designed training programs, VIKAND aims to strengthen resilience and coping mechanisms, empowering seafarers to overcome their struggles and promote positive mental health across the industry.   

Additionally, there is presently no maritime industry standard for mental health training, so VIKAND proactively developed structured learning programmes that satisfy RightShip guidelines and comply with Inspection Ship Questionnaire (RISQ) 3.0.  

Mental Health First Aid for Seafarers  

The course's objective is to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma around mental health issues onboard vessels.  

This VIKAND training programme is designed to increase knowledge and understanding of mental health issues at sea, how to recognize relevant signs and symptoms, and how to provide initial support to those in need.  

The course also teaches seafarers to recognise various factors that can contribute to suicide and self-harm at sea, and how to approach and communicate with a colleague who may be at risk. The programme was developed, and is delivered, by a licensed psychologist with experience in the challenges of maritime life. 

V.Ships Partnership  

VIKAND recently partnered with V.Ships Greece to provide training that will increase their officers’ knowledge and understanding of mental health and improve the psychological resilience and wellbeing of their crew, whilst enhancing overall safety onboard. 

Testimonials from V.Ships’ Seafarers Who Completed the Training  

“This training really gives me tools to recognize behaviours in my colleagues and myself.” 

“This training program is very useful to us on how to handle or adjust mental health issues.”  

“The training contributes awareness to mental health issues onboard that is often set aside because of the things like physical work being the priority in this profession”. 

VIKAND’s broader mission is to support the long-term health of the maritime industry through programmes and services that enhance seafarer safety, resilience, happiness and productivity.  

Our Mental Health First Aid for Seafarers course reinforces that mental health resilience is crucial for maritime professionals – not just for their personal welfare – but also for enhancing overall safety and sustainability in the maritime industry. 

How to Vote 

The winners of each category will be determined by the best ranking submission from an online public vote (50%) and industry panel of experts (50%). Awards will be presented to winners at a dedicated event on Tuesday 25th June 2024.  

To cast your vote, visit the CrewWelfare Awards page, at https://crewwelfareweek.com/awards/