About us

Seafarers UK is a charity that has been helping people in the maritime community for over 100 years, by providing vital support to seafarers in need and their families. We do this by giving grants to organisations and projects that make a real difference to people’s lives, across the Merchant Navy, Fishing Fleets, Royal Navy and Royal Marines. In 2018, we awarded 76 grants totalling £2.46m to 56 maritime welfare charities.

See if you’re eligible for a grant.

100 years in the making

In 1917, a new charity for the maritime community was established. Such was the impact of so many seafarers who had been maimed or lost at sea during the Great War that the King was prepared to give his name to this new charity, and so it became the King George’s Fund for Sailors. Take a look at the history that shaped Seafarers UK in our Centenary film.

Learn about our history

• Our impact

  Learn more about the projects and organisations we have supported and the impact our grant making programmes had in 2018.

• Case studies

  Your donations are incredibly important to us and to the seafarers and their families who need your support. Read their stories.

• Publications

  Seafarers UK produces a range of publications, including our bi-annual Seaview magazine and Impact Report. Read on to find out more about our work.