Sailor Steven Jones Honored with Merchant Navy Medal for Mental Health Advocacy

In a commendable recognition of his relentless efforts to elevate mental health awareness within the maritime community, Wirral sailor Steven Jones has been awarded the prestigious Merchant Navy Medal. The accolade, bestowed by the Department for Transport (DfT), celebrates his significant contributions to safety, welfare, and training for seafarers. At the age of 52, Jones has made a lasting impact on the maritime industry since founding the Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) in 2015. This innovative initiative aims to gauge and enhance the emotional well-being of mariners worldwide, providing a crucial platform for seafarers to voice their experiences and challenges on the high seas. Through the SHI, which regularly collects feedback and insights from maritime workers, Jones has shed light on the mental health struggles many face, advocating for better support and resources in an often-overlooked segment of the workforce. In addition to his commitment to mental health, Jones played a pivotal role in the campaign to secure the release of the Chennai Six, a group of British maritime security guards who were unjustly jailed in India in 2017. His tireless advocacy efforts not only brought attention to their plight but also highlighted the complexities and dangers faced by maritime professionals in international waters. Reflecting on his recent recognition, Jones emphasized the importance of empowering seafarers. He stated, “It is absolutely vital that seafarers have a voice, are listened to by the industry and seen by society.” His words resonate deeply in an industry that has historically been fraught with challenges, including long periods away from home, isolation, and mental health stigma. The Merchant Navy Medal is a testament to Jones’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of those who serve at sea. As the maritime world continues to evolve, his work serves as a beacon of hope and progress, inspiring others to prioritize mental health and well-being in a critical yet often marginalized sector.