Extension of Seafarers Bursary Scheme

Circular No: NP/164/21

TO ALL SHIPPING BRANCHES AND REGIONAL COUNCILS.

Our ref: S7/3/5

19th May 2021

Dear Colleagues

Extension of Seafarers Bursary Scheme

Further to Circular no. 278/20 of 9th November 2020, I am writing to inform you that the bursary scheme agreed by your Union as part of the Maritime Charities Group (MCG) has been extended until the end of 2021.

Merchant Navy Ratings made redundant during the pandemic are strongly encouraged to apply for support from the MCG Redundancy and Retraining Bursary Fund. Up to £500 can be claimed to help meet the cost of training or qualifications that would help re-enter the industry.

Since it was launched in November, forty-eight applications have been approved and over £20,000 awarded in grants. Another £20,000 is still in the fund. The MCG continue to meet the Marine Society’s costs from administering the scheme. To apply and obtain more information please go to https://www.marine-society.org/redundancy-fund

I would be grateful if you could bring the contents of this circular to the attention of members in your branch and you will be kept updated with all further developments.

Yours sincerely

Michael Lynch
General Secretary