As Padstow’s Christmas Fayre celebrates the best of Cornwall’s coastal community, it’s the perfect time to shine a light on those who dedicate their lives to supporting the people at its heart — the fishermen.
The Fisherman’s Mission has been a lifeline for fishing families for more than 140 years, offering practical, emotional, and spiritual support to those working in one of the UK’s toughest and most dangerous industries.
We sat down with Julian Waring from The Fisherman’s Mission to learn more about their vital work, the challenges faced by fishing communities today, and how the spirit of giving at Christmas helps keep this essential charity afloat all year round.
What does the support from the Fishermen’s Mission look like for local fishing families, especially during the winter months?
We support fishing families all year round, along the shores of the UK. Here in Cornwall over the last two and a half years, we’ve had a consistent call on our services and that is throughout the year. We are supporting many in need of mental health practitioners and support/ guidance through the demands of the high cost of living.
Christmas can be a challenging time at sea. What are some of the unique pressures or dangers fishermen face this season?
Fishermen are self-employed. When the weather is poor, often the prices of fish can rise as many boats cannot leave the safety of the harbour and fish market prices rise. The weather in the winter can be especially challenging and the real pressures on fishermen can be the need to earn, especially around the Christmas period.
The Fisherman’s Mission has been a pillar for coastal communities for over a century. How do those deep traditions continue to shape the charity today?
We have the unique privilege of being a constant support throughout the decades. As a fundraiser for the charity, I meet with supporters and clients regularly. I met with someone recently who was recalling how the charity had supported them and their family when, tragically their father died whilst out fishing. Fond as well as sad memories were shared. Support at Christmas and birthdays were really appreciated but being a readily available support, both practically and emotionally was the assurance they needed. They ended by saying this support would always be appreciated and valued. Across the UK, colleagues are dedicated to offering the high level of care and support to fishing families in need.
Many people hear “mission” and think only of emergency response. What ongoing welfare and mental-health support do you provide year-round?
We are available 24 hours a day to offer support, especially in times of emergency. Life as a Mission area officer, on a daily basis, is varied. It can be visiting the ports and coves to connect with new or establish fishermen or calling in on retired fishermen as well as fishermen’s widows. There are organised events such as “Seafit”, professionals from the NHS, dental teams and mental health practitioners are available in the ports. Many deep-sea fishermen cannot get appointments for these services as they have to fish the tides and of course, when the weather allows. Other on-going support such as: Mission officers organising pop up cafes, this has been popular with retired fishermen and wonderful volunteers supply great chat and delicious cakes.
Padstow’s identity is tied to its fishing heritage. What does it mean to you to be part of that story?
It’s a privilege to related to the long fishing heritage of Padstow. The team are always welcomed by the community and well supported by them too. Without this level of support and donations we wouldn’t be able to offer the high standard of charitable services.
For those attending the Christmas Fayre, what’s one thing you wish everyone understood about the realities of life in the fishing industry?
For those visiting the Fayre, be they near or far, fishing remains the most dangerous occupation in peacetime. When fishermen cannot work the seas, they cannot earn and on average many are earning less than the minimum wage. Please support your fishermen and your local fishmongers.
How can visitors and locals support the Fishermen’s Mission this Christmas season?
We are delighted to be invited to the Padstow Christmas Fayre and we urge everyone to come and say hello at our stall in the Community Tent. Outside of that please look out for our famous “Albert” fishermen donation boxes in Padstow and if you can spare some change please donate. For every £1 donated, 88p is spent on supporting active, retired as well as families of fishermen.
Does The Fisherman’s Mission have any special festive initiatives that bring comfort or cheer to those who might be struggling?
We have seasonal initiatives and for anyone struggling this wintertime, please get in touch. All that we do is in confidence, visit our website to then get in touch with your local Mission Officer – www.fishermensmission.org.uk
Looking ahead to the new year, what hopes or goals do you have for strengthening your support across Cornwall’s fishing communities?
We are looking forward to our annual summer seafood dinners at a secluded, exclusive venue near Padstow. Very well-known respected chefs are lined up to loan their talents and incredible seafood dishes.
Please visit out @fishmish social media and look out for this unique event with limited tickets available.
