Recognition highlights dedication, bravery, and the exceptional standards of UK maritime service
Nine Sailors Honoured with Prestigious Merchant Navy Medal
Mental Health Advocate and Life-Saving Crew Receive Well-Deserved Accolades. Nine British sailors have been awarded the distinguished Merchant Navy Medal for their outstanding contributions to maritime safety and mental health advocacy. This esteemed recognition, which celebrates exceptional service within the maritime industry, highlights the remarkable achievements of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their roles.
Among the recipients is Steven Jones, 52, from The Wirral, recognised for his groundbreaking work in advancing mental health support for seafarers. Steven founded the Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) in 2015, an initiative dedicated to monitoring and improving the mental well-being of maritime professionals. The SHI has become a crucial tool for identifying areas of concern and enabling shipping companies to provide targeted support.
Steven’s work has been particularly impactful during the COVID-19 pandemic, shedding light on the profound mental health challenges faced by seafarers and advocating for necessary improvements. His commitment extends beyond the index; in 2017, he played a pivotal role in campaigning for the release of the Chennai Six, a group of British maritime security guards unjustly imprisoned in India. His advocacy was instrumental in highlighting their plight and challenging the harsh conditions they endured.
Maritime Minister Mike Kane commended the awardees, remarking, It’s wonderful to witness these nine exceptional sailors honoured with this prestigious accolade – the highest in our industry. Their dedication, bravery, and fortitude are truly inspiring and represent the very best of UK maritime. I am proud to celebrate these individuals, as well as the countless seafarers who make significant contributions to our nation.”
Steven Jones commented on his accolade, “I’m honoured to receive the Merchant Navy Medal. It is crucial that seafarers have their voices heard and are recognised by the industry and society. I am pleased to bring attention to the important work seafarers do and will continue to support their well-being in the future.”
The Merchant Navy Medal also recognises the heroism of four sailors who demonstrated extraordinary courage. Captain Richard Gascoyne Kirkby from Exeter, alongside his rescue crew – Coxswain Ben Owen Bramwell from Leicestershire, Trystan Tanner from Bicester, and Bosun Ashley Oliver West from Worcester – undertook a perilous mission in the Mediterranean. Responding to a distress call from a sinking vessel near the coast of Italy, their heroic efforts resulted in the safe rescue of over 100 individuals.
Captain Kirkby remarked, “After decades at sea, I am deeply honoured to receive this prestigious award. It is a testament to my crew’s bravery and dedication. This medal represents the collective effort of all seafarers who are ready to respond to emergencies and ensure the safety of life at sea.”
The UK government remains committed to enhancing seafarer welfare and collaborates closely with organisations like Maritime UK to advance seafarer well-being both at sea and on land. Sharon Coveney, Deputy Chief Executive of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB), expressed her appreciation: “We are privileged to honour such dedicated seafarers who tirelessly support global trade and safety. The recipients truly deserve this recognition for their exceptional service.”
Ben Bailey, Director of Programme at The Mission to Seafarers, added, “The Merchant Navy Medal celebrates the highest standards in British and Commonwealth seafaring. Steven Jones has been pivotal in advancing discussions on seafarers’ mental health, and we are delighted to see him and all the recipients honoured with this significant national award.”
The Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service will be formally presented on 5 November in a State Ceremony, coinciding with the annual Merchant Navy Day, which recognises the vital role of the merchant navy in global trade and national security.
