Maritime charity column: physiotherapy resumes free of charge to crew by Sandra Welch chief executive Seafarers Hospital Society

I'm really pleased to announced that Merchant Navy seafarers and fishing crew can now access free physiotherapy consultations funded by the Seafarers Hospital Society (SHS).

THE MARITIME CHARITY COLUMN

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 work-related injuries is high. Time spent offshore means it can be difficult getting treatment, so the SHS funds fast-track physiotherapy for working seafarers. Treatment is available from a local clinic at a time that suits the seafarer and it is paid for by SHS.

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. Now is the time for seafarers to pay attention to their own needs. 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.

The maritime charity column is a regular feature in the Nautilus Telegraph. Submissions are invited from a range of organisations by the Telegraph editor.