Needs assessment for the creation of a seafarers' centre in Newfoundland

Abstract

There has not been a seafarers’ welfare centre in Newfoundland (NL) since the early 2000s. The present study assesses the need for a seafarers' welfare centre in NL. In doing so, we conducted 60 semi-structured interviews with seafarers, employees of Seafarers' Centres, and volunteers. Our analysis focused on identifying emergent themes in a semi-grounded approach where themes were derived from the data while theory remained informed by prior knowledge. Findings evidenced the need for a dedicated space, particularly one that has an awareness of the maritime community’s needs and consideration for key aspects such as sustainability, reliability, and safety. Our findings provide a foundation for a complete feasibility study on establishing a Seafarers’ Centre in NL, with the potential to impact seafarers’ livelihoods and their families positively.