The Seafarers’ Charity is celebrating the announcement that Robert Greenwood, trustee of the charity, has been awarded the Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service.
Robert was nominated for the Merchant Navy Medal for his considerable dedication over many years to improving safety and welfare in the fishing industry; one of the most dangerous professions in the world.
Extensive knowledge
Robert Greenwood has been a trustee for The Seafarers’ Charity for five years. During that time the charity has benefited from his extensive knowledge and understanding of the commercial fishing sector.
As a member, and now Chair, of the charity’s grant-making Impact Committee, Robert’s advice has supported the charity to develop and fund a number of effective safety initiatives in fishing. has also strongly supported the charity’s pro-active approach to developing grant-funded solutions.
SafetyFolder
Robert has always worked collaboratively with a solid understanding of how fishing works
Robert has always worked collaboratively with a solid understanding of how fishing works, both technically and economically, meaning he has developed and delivered practical solutions to improve conditions in fishing which are both needed and wanted by the industry - most importantly they are widely adopted.
One significant example is his development of the free-to-use online safety management system known as the SafetyFolder. Now used by almost 3,000 fishing vessels to manage their safety; its use is recommended by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency.
Shared initiatives
Robert has always shared initiatives with the wider fishing industry with the intention of helping others to raise standards both in the UK and internationally.
Ten years ago, Robert helped to set up The Fishing Industry's Safety & Health Platform, (FISH Platform), which is a network of international fishing safety experts who collaborate on safety and welfare initiatives which benefit commercial fishing.
In 2022, FISH Platform will be adapting and stepping up to support the professionalization of fishing and representation of fishing safety at international forums.
