EPUT’s COVID vaccination service for seafarers recognised as one of the best in the world

A seafaring charity has recognised our COVID vaccination service for seafarers as one of the best in the world.

The COVID-19 outreach team has vaccinated more than 28,000 seafarers at the Port of Tilbury and DP World London Gateway in just over two years.

They have now been honoured with an Award of Recognition from the Queen Victoria’s Seaman’s Rest (QVSR) charity.

Alexander Campbell, who is the CEO of the 179-year-old maritime charity, nominated the team for the charity’s prestigious award and praised them for their hard work and outstanding dedication.

He said: “The work of the NHS team at the Port of London is truly outstanding and nowhere else in the UK has such an effective operation. Over 28,000 vaccines and counting have been delivered to seafarers as key workers at the Port of Tilbury and DP World London Gateway.

“The vaccine operation at the Port of London stands at number one (sometimes number two) in the world.

“This position fluctuates as the team competes with the operations in Houston, USA.”

The covid-19 outreach team work with the port chaplain and hold COVID jab clinics. They also work with government bodies to ensure seafarers are issued with a vaccination certificate.

Chantal Williams, health outreach and covid vaccination project co-ordinator, said: “It is a privilege and an honour to receive this Award of Recognition from the QVSR.

“The team have worked tirelessly to ensure the seafarers were vaccinated promptly, and guided by the port chaplain, we have succeeded in vaccinating thousands of crew.

“We have been on various, and impressive, ships, cruise liners and vessels, met the most appreciative people, but ultimately put all our covid vaccination training to exceptional use.”

The team were invited to a prestigious ceremony at Trinity House in London where they were presented with their award in front of 200 people.