Preventing social isolation
Create opportunities for people to get together
Duty at sea can be affected by monotony, little opportunity for recreation, lengthy separation from the family, a restricted physical environment and limited social contact. Some seamen mention feeling burnt out, loneliness and social isolation as some of their greatest challenges.
Focus on mealtimes as social events
Meals aboard are most important, simply for the enjoyment of food and partly too, the socializing that goes with eating together. Because of the way watches are organized aboard, meals are often taken at different times. Consider whether something could be done to make it easier for the crew to eat together. The cook is important. Cooks should not just be good at making food. They often get to act as the social centre of the vessel.
Joint activities
Hold various kinds of competition, especially those where language and different cultures have little impact. Think of:
"Welfare officer"
Social life aboard very much depends on the master. But the social life of the entire crew should not depend on the ability and needs of a single individual. This is something that should be delegated aboard. Some vessels also have a welfare officer whose special duty is to promote welfare aboard. His job will be made easier if the company also provides the necessary physical framework, facilities and equipment aboard.
Work on physical conditions aboard
Consider socializing in its broadest sense, for example gym and table tennis facilities. Discuss whether your facilities aboard can be made more attractive or whether you should acquire something new..
Dialogue with the company on important matters
Part of management's duties is to be in dialogue with the company and draw attention to the conditions and frameworks that affect welfare and well-being aboard.
There are various issues relating to preventing social isolation aboard but also wellbeing in general and it is here that the company is well-placed to make decisions. This primarily involves:
Providing the opportunity for crew to contact their homes.
Better access to private e-mail.
Receiving mail as frequently as possible.
Ensuring access to news media.
Mediating social contacts between seamen's families.
