Strengthening the Shipping Sector’s Lifesaving Role at Sea: IMRF at LISW25

IMRF was proud to be an official charity of London International Shipping Week 2025 (LISW25). To mark the occasion, we hosted a special reception on 16 September at Britannia P&I Club’s new offices, bringing together industry leaders and maritime charities to spotlight the shipping industry’s vital role in saving lives at sea.

Jacob Tas, IMRF Chair & Trustee and CEO of KNRM, opened the evening by highlighting the IMRF’s global role in strengthening maritime SAR and its close partnership with shipping. He spoke about the IMRF’s core programmes, from #FutureSAR and #SaferSAR to #WomeninSAR and #SARyouOk?, which tackle challenges ranging from climate change and mass rescue operations to mental health support for rescuers. Jacob underlined shipping’s direct role in this work, noting: “We are not a side note to shipping - preserving life at sea is part of the industry’s core duty of care.”

Caroline Jupe, CEO of the IMRF, reinforced this message, reminding the audience that merchant vessels are often the first to respond when lives are at risk. She spoke about the IMRF’s landmark Global Maritime SAR Systems Review, launched with Lloyd’s Register Foundation, which will map strengths, gaps and future needs across global rescue systems. Caroline stressed the importance of this collaboration, saying: “Shipping, fishing sector and maritime rescue are not separate worlds - we’re partners in safety, and as we look to the future, that partnership must grow stronger.”

IMRF Patron Sir Tim Laurence reflected on his decades of maritime experience and the enduring challenges of safety at sea. He emphasised that search and rescue is not solely the responsibility of rescue services, but a shared duty in which all mariners and shipping organisations play a critical part. He welcomed the Global Maritime SAR Systems Review and encouraged the sector to engage actively, highlighting the importance of collective action to save lives.

Guests then enjoyed a relaxed evening of networking over drinks and delicious canapés, where representatives from maritime charities and the shipping industry came together to exchange ideas.

A Special Recognition Award was also presented to Britannia P&I Club in acknowledgement of their generous support and contributions to the IMRF’s mission, as well as their hosting of the evening.

The event set the tone for LISW25, reinforcing the sector’s shared commitment to ensuring that no call for help at sea goes unanswered.

Thank you to LISW for the photography.

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