“This was more than just a financial problem – this was an issue of the heart, borne out of past trauma.”
Our Port Staff across the UK build trusted relationships with fishermen, their families, and former fishermen. They have a deep understanding of their local fishing communities and what services are available to the people they support. Where the support they have doesn’t cover everything a person needs, we find others to fill in the gaps.
Sally, our Area Manager for Hull, saw how this approach could make a difference for Rita and Eric.
Understanding what matters most
Eric, a former fisherman, lives with his wife Rita. Rita is at the end of her life, on palliative care. She usually needs an oxygen tank and is in a frail state. When Sally visited the couple in their small council home, she could see that Rita was no longer able to safely manage the stairs.
Sally worked with the local authority and maritime charity partners to find practical solutions. Together, they arranged several accessibility improvements for Rita: a stairlift, an accessible bathroom, and a temporary place to sleep downstairs.
However, as she got to know Rita and Eric, Sally learned that their needs went further.
Holistic support
“It was clear Rita was very anxious about their finances.”
An error with the couple’s council tax payments had left them with a small amount of arrears. At first, Rita felt ashamed to seek support, especially from a charity – despite her fears of being in debt. Rita experienced poverty as a child, and financial insecurity made her relive difficult memories. Sally says, “This was more than just a financial problem – this was an issue of the heart, borne out of past trauma.”
As she got to know Rita and Eric better, Sally was able to help Rita feel more comfortable. With their permission, Sally connected the pair to local council-funded services.
The services checked that Rita and Eric received all the benefits they were entitled to and were on the most suitable energy tariff. With her confidence growing, Rita then contacted SAIL (Seafarers’ Advice and Information Line), who advocated on the couple’s behalf and helped resolve the council tax issue.
Support for the whole family
Rita later needed to spend time in hospital. When she returned home, the responsibility of caring for her fell heavily on Eric.
Sally connected Eric with the Social Prescribing service through his GP. This gave him access to additional support and much-needed respite from his caring responsibilities.
Through each stage, Sally looked beyond the immediate problem to understand what Rita and Eric needed to feel safer, more confident and better able to cope.
Your support makes our work possible
“Financial and health issues take a heavy toll on people like Rita and Eric. With the Fishermen’s Mission, they have someone on their side, giving them a voice, allaying fears, and providing real solutions.”
“Your donation today ensures we can go straight to the heart of the issues our clients face and make their lives better.”
