Port chaplains can now track and follow up on care given to seafarers using a new phone app.
Launched by the charity Sailors’ Society, the Chapplaincy Android phone app will also collect data on mariner health and welfare.
“The app will be used initially by our port chaplains to track ships arriving and to schedule visits to meet with seafarers,” Sandra Welch, the charity’s director of programme, told IHS Maritime.
“At present seafarers do not use the app, though there are plans to roll out a version that would enable them to see more information on welfare services available in the ports they are approaching.”
Using ship movement data from MarineTraffic, chaplains will be able to see when ships are due to come into port and plan their ship visits accordingly.
After providing care to a seafarer, chaplains can use the app to share information with a chaplain at the next port of call to ensure continuity of care.
“The app means better scheduling, faster response, and the ability to pass on messages to chaplains in other ports – as well as to other welfare agencies – so that we can provide welfare ‘port to port’,” said Welch.
“Even once the ship sails we can keep providing care and welfare.”
She added that the app will enable Sailors’ Society “to build a picture of trends in seafarer welfare and issues such as mental health and wellbeing”.
This post was sourced from IHS Maritime 360: View the original article here.
