On 5 May 2020 Maritime UK launched of the Diversity in Maritime programme. Diversity in Maritime aims to promote a fair, equal and inclusive UK maritime industry that embraces diversity and creates a supportive and open atmosphere for all to be able to achieve their potential. The programme works closely with the Maritime Skills Commission to ensure the UK maritime industry has a continuous pipeline of highly skilled, diverse people and to support the Department for Transport's Maritime 2050 People Route Map.

The Department for Transport's Maritime 2050 People Route Map states: "The maritime workforce of the future will be diverse. New roles, new technologies and a changing image of the sector will draw in people from all backgrounds across the entire UK". In order achieve these goals the whole UK maritime industry must work together.

Therefore, SMI is very involved with Maritime UK’s Diversity in Maritime programme. The programme includes four, safe-space networks: Women in Maritime; Mental Health in Maritime; Pride in Maritime; Ethnicity in Maritime, with more to be announced in the future. These networks bring together individuals and allies from across the sector to collaborate, discuss and break down barriers being faced.  

The networks are supported by working groups including: Pride, Menopause Hub, Creating a Culture of Care, Working Parents, Speaker Bank and more. These groups bring together actions from the networks to signpost to existing initiatives or resources or work together to create them where they are lacking, creating solutions to barriers. If you are interested in joining a working group you can contact Maritime UK here.

How to get involved:

There are many ways for people to get involved, from simply sharing posts and support on social media, taking part in surveys, attending one of the Maritime UK network meetings, speaking about your experiences in the industry or volunteering for one the projects. Opportunities include:

• Join and share the Diversity in Maritime networks
• Sponsor the Diversity in Maritime programme to ensure our work can continue
• Get involved with Maritime UK initiatives
• Join events and webinars
• Encourage your organisation to sign up to the Diversity in Maritime Pledges and Charter
• Share ideas and best practice

Maritime UK Diversity Resources: 

• Diversity in Maritime Annual Report 2021

• Diversity in Maritime Networks

• Diversity in Maritime Initiatives 

• Events and Network Meetings

• Diversity in Maritime Taskforce

Practical Resources: 

• Diversity in Maritime Toolkit

• Mental Health and Wellbeing Toolkit

• Videos and Webinars

It will take the support of every maritime professional to drive real change in the sector. By joining the Diversity in Maritime programme, you can be part of that change. A more diverse maritime industry will make the maritime sector better for everyone. Complete the form here to get involved.