MTS and DSM Announce Teesport Joint Working Pilot

The Mission to Seafarers and the Deutsche Seemannsmission (DSM) are pleased to announce a joint initiative in support of seafarers’ welfare in Teesport Middlesbrough UK. This ground-breaking new pilot initiative will build on the strong commitment to professional partnership which both maritime welfare organizations are keen to develop.

Both organizations have had a strong maritime welfare support presence in the area over many years. The DSM has a chaplaincy team covering both sides of the River Tees.  The Mission to Seafarers manages two Seafarers’ Centers, supported by strong teams of staff and volunteers, including Honorary Chaplains. 

Until recently The Mission to Seafarers also funded chaplaincy posts in Teesport. Therefore, for the next 12 months on an experimental basis, DSM chaplains Irma and Uli Schulte will also represent The Mission to Seafarers. The Mission will make a contribution towards the costs. It is hoped that this will be an arrangement which can be taken forward into the future and is a sign of their commitment to work together wherever possible.

The Mission to Seafarers will continue to operate its two Seafarers’ Centers as normal. The Mission and DSM also value greatly the significant chaplaincy work carried out locally by the Apostleship of the Sea, with whom they work closely alongside.  Together the three organizations are providing very significant welfare support to seafarers visiting both Teesport itself and the wider area.

Heike Proske, General Secretary of the Deutsche Seemannsmission, said: "As seafarers are globally working, the Seafarers' Missions too are coming closer together to support seafarers everywhere in the world, regardless of their nationality, religion and culture.

Andrew Wright, Secretary General of The Mission to Seafarers, said: “I am absolutely delighted by this development in Tees – partnership working is good for seafarers and ensures the best use of resources. We look forward to working closely with the Deutsche Seemannsmission.”