Seafish has secured more than £1.4 million in new funding to expand training opportunities across the UK seafood industry, helping thousands of people develop new skills, improve safety and build long-term careers
The public body has been awarded £419,950 through Marine Fund Scotland to deliver training in Scotland until 31 March 2027, alongside £998,858 from the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme to support training in England until 31 March 2028. Funding is also in place for Wales, while support for Northern Ireland remains subject to approval.
“The seafood industry depends on a skilled workforce and ensuring people have access to high-quality training is essential if we are to attract new talent and support those already working in the sector,” said Neil McAleese, head of industry workforce issues at Seafish.
“This funding allows us to invest in people right across the seafood supply chain, from those taking their first steps into the industry to experienced professionals looking to develop new skills.
“By making this training more accessible, we’re helping businesses build resilience, improve safety standards and equip the workforce with the skills needed for the future.”
The investment is expected to provide around 6,000 training days each year for people working throughout the seafood supply chain, including fishers, processors, wholesalers, fish markets, aquaculture businesses, retailers and fish and chip shops.
Funding will support new entrants beginning careers at sea, refresher courses in mandatory safety training, qualifications in engineering, navigation, radio operation and vessel stability, as well as man overboard awareness training. Eligible fishers in Scotland and England can apply for grants of up to £10,000 towards training costs, subject to funding availability.
For the first time, the funding will also support Seafish’s onshore training programmes, including courses in food hygiene, HACCP, health and safety, fish quality assessment and fish smoking.
Marine Fund Scotland support will also help deliver the UK Seafood Federation’s six-day Future Seafood Leaders Programme in Peterhead, aimed at developing the next generation of seafood industry leaders.
