Shout, a free 24/7 confidential text service has been launched to help tackle mental health in the UK fishing industry.
Powered by Mental Health Innovations, a charity using technology to improve the mental health of the population, Shout will work alongside the SeaFit Programme – a joint initiative from the Seafarers Hospital Society and the Fishermen’s Mission, covering all aspects of health and wellbeing.
SeaFit partners with local health care providers and charities, services include health checks on the harbourside; health trainers in the community; free dental checks and treatment; access to mental health and wellbeing support; and development of a network of physiotherapists trained to meet the specific needs of fishermen.
The programmes recognise that fishermen are often disadvantaged in accessing health services due to irregular, transient nature of their work. Tides, weather, and fish locations mean that fishermen can’t plan time off. This makes it difficult to pre-book and keep appointments, and they often suffer a loss of earnings if having to attend appointments during favourable fishing conditions.
Meanwhile, mental health issues, anxieties and depression are often not addressed, or spoken about for fear of being seen as weak, they say, adding that financial worries, the cost-of-living crisis, increased regulations, restaurants closing, environmental pressures and market demand, all lead to an increase in anxiety, stress, and greater strain on relationships for fishermen and their families.
“We have wonderful counsellors specialising in supporting fishermen, Fairwinds in Cornwall and Fishwell in Norfolk and Suffolk, but we also needed to find a way of reaching other areas. Shout enables us to provide 24/7 free support using a confidential, service, although some mobile networks may charge for texts.”
Emma Wilson, Marketing and Partnerships Manager at Mental Health Innovations, said that Shout is the UK’s only free, 24/7 text support service for anyone who is struggling to cope.
“We’re extremely pleased to be partnering with SeaFit to ensure that fishermen, who find many traditional health services inaccessible, will know about our anonymous and non-judgemental support.”
Sharon Coveney, Deputy Chief Executive at the Merchant Navy Welfare Board which is the umbrella charity for UK Merchant Navy and fishing fleets, said, “Commercial fishing can be a dangerous industry at the best of times. Fishermen have long and anti-social working hours and constantly face financial pressures which can affect their mental health. With that in mind, we are delighted to support this project to provide a much-needed service to active and retired fishermen who may be experiencing mental health challenges.
“The SeaFit programme has proven hugely successful, and Shout will continue to make a difference by empowering fishermen with support and techniques to improve their wellbeing.”
The Fishermen’s Mission port staff also plays a crucial role in supporting active and retired fishermen and their families. Mental anxiety and depression can have huge ramifications on their livelihoods upon which the Fishermen’s Mission can offer financial, practical and pastoral support.
If a fisherman is feeling anxious, stressed or depressed they can text the word “FISH” to 85258 for free, confidential support, at any time of day or night. After receiving four automated messages they will be connected with a trained Shout volunteer.
