Physiotherapists re-open the doors to merchant seafarers after weeks in lockdown

The Seafarers Hospital Society (SHS) has confirmed that physiotherapists offering free treatment to seafarers are now open for business and, with all Covid-19 precautions in place, it’s safe to go in for help.

Chief Executive Officer, Sandra Welch, explained: “The Society has been funding free physio treatment for fishermen and merchant seafarers for over a decade now, but when the Coronavirus struck, many of the clinics offering the service had to close. Some continued to see patients virtually but face–to-face consultations were not available. The good news is that physiotherapists are opening their doors again and seafarers need to know about it.”

Working at sea is one of the most challenging jobs in the UK and the number of workrelated injuries is high. Time spent offshore means it can be difficult getting treatment so the Seafarers Hospital Society funds fast-track physiotherapy for working seafarers. Treatment is available from a local clinic at a time that suits the seafarer and it’s all paid for by the Society.

Sandra added: “Seafarers are playing a critical role during the pandemic, keeping supply lines running, ensuring supermarkets are stocked with food and that hospitals are stocked with medical supplies. But while they’ve been looking after everyone else, we’re concerned they’ve been neglecting their health.

Our message to them is that now’s the time to pay attention to your own needs and if you think you might need treatment our physios are open for business. So if you’re worried about your back or your neck, or your knees are giving you trouble again, go to the SHS website and find a local physio. So, tell your colleagues, tell your crew, tell your mates and, as long as you’re based in the UK, the treatment is absolutely free.”

For more information see our physiotherapy page or call the Society on 020 8858 3696.