Nautilus signs Maritime UK diversity and inclusion pledge

Nautilus International has committed to a new human resources scheme fostering diversity and inclusivity in the maritime sector.

Maritime UK's Diversity in Maritime Pledge was launched at an event at the UK Houses of Parliament to mark Merchant Navy Day 2024.

Numerous organisations, including Nautilus, have now signed the pledge, which affirms their dedication to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, mental health status, sexual orientation, or ethnicity, feel valued, respected, and empowered.

Nautilus general secretary Mark Dickinson commented: 'We have a long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion at the Union, as evidenced by our Equality and Diversity Forum, mutual respect policy and dedicated contact for women members.

'Signing the Maritime UK pledge, the principles of which are consistent with our focus and approach, shows we want to continuously improve and demonstrate leadership to support and advance a diverse and inclusive maritime industry.'

To achieve the aims in the pledge, the signatories have agreed to the following commitments:

Promote Diversity: Actively encourage and support the recruitment, retention, and promotion of a diverse workforce. We will strive to create teams that reflect the richness of our communities and the global nature of the maritime industry. We recognise and understand that diversity is both visible and invisible.

Foster Inclusivity: Cultivate a culture where all employees/seafarers feel welcomed, included, and able to bring their authentic selves to work. We will implement policies and practices that ensure everyone has a voice and feels they belong.

Ensure Equity: Commit to fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all individuals. We will address any barriers that may exist due to systemic inequalities and work towards eliminating discrimination in all its forms.

Support Mental Health: Recognise the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace. We will provide resources, training, and support to create a mentally healthy work environment where employees/seafarers feel safe to seek help and discuss mental health issues.

Champion Gender Equality: Promote gender equality by supporting equal opportunities for all genders. We will work towards closing gender gaps, particularly in leadership roles, and ensure our policies and practices are free from gender bias.

Celebrate Ethnic Diversity: Recognise and celebrate the cultural richness that comes from ethnic diversity. We will work to eliminate racial and ethnic disparities and ensure that our workplace is inclusive and respectful of all backgrounds.

Support LGBTQ+ Individuals: Foster a supportive and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ employees/seafarers. We will ensure that our policies and practices are inclusive of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and we will actively combat discrimination and bias against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Educate and Train: Provide regular training and education on diversity, equity, and inclusion to all employees/seafarers. We will ensure that everyone understands the importance of these values and knows how to contribute to a positive and inclusive workplace.

Accountability and Transparency: Hold ourselves accountable by regularly reviewing our progress towards these commitments. We will be transparent in our efforts and outcomes, and we will continuously seek feedback to improve.

• The next meeting of the Nautilus Equality and Diversity Forum is online on 7 November 2024. All Nautilus members are welcome. Find out more here