SEAFARERS affected by the crisis in Ukraine can now apply for financial support from a fund being managed by the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network.

The Ukraine Crisis Support Fund, which ISWAN is distributing on behalf of the Seafarers International Relief Fund, is offering one-off financial grants of up to $500 to seafarers and their families to help cover medical costs, accommodation, living costs and educational support for children.

It can also provide compensation of up to $1,000 to next of kin if a seafarer has died as a direct consequence of the Ukraine crisis. The fund is open to seafarers of any nationality directly impacted by the Ukraine crisis.

Seafarers and their families are not able to apply directly but can apply via seafarer support organisations such as welfare charities, maritime unions or crewing agencies.

“ISWAN is seeking the support of such organisations to make applications and ensure that the available funds reach those in need,” the charity said in a statement.

It is advising seafarers and their families seeking financial support to contact a seafarer-centred organisation in their reach and refer them the fund’s webpage so the organisation can apply on their behalf.

The Ukraine Crisis Support Fund was established through a donation from the Seafarers International Relief Fund, which is managed by The Seafarers’ Charity.

ISWAN also called for further support for seafarers from the industry via financial donations. “Urgent support is needed from the maritime industry to help those affected by the crisis.”