Supporting our fleet colleagues in quarantine

As we get closer to returning to service, we’re now welcoming many more of our fleet colleagues back on board. However, following changes to the government rules, those arriving from red list countries are now having to quarantine in hotels before they can board our ships.

Many have travelled long distances, across different time zones and on arrival are facing strict rules about what they can and cannot do whilst in quarantine. To help Respect and Protect our colleagues and support them during this challenging time, the Wellbeing team and many volunteers from across the business have been checking in with them via wellbeing calls.

We caught up with Claire Buckingham, Occupational Health and Wellbeing:

“The wellbeing of our crew is paramount. In making these calls we have been able to connect with our crew to make sure their needs are being met and provide a listening ear should they have any worries or concerns. We check they are comfortable, have been in touch with family and friends and know about the quarantine rules and COVID testing processes.

For many crew, this is their first stay in the UK and possibly their first time away from home, so being able to provide a friendly call to them to check in and make sure they are ok has been an invaluable link.”

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With so many colleagues to check in with, many volunteers from across the business have been helping. Here’s what some of them had to say:

“I found it a rewarding and humbling experience – it made me realise just how much we take for granted. Everyone I spoke to was appreciative of the support they were given and I am hoping to meet a few of them later in the year when I go on a cruise.” Bernard Quinn, Maritime & Crew Accounting

“It was an absolute pleasure to call our crew and check in with them. I had great feedback from them and have formed some lasting friendships.” Sam Bell, Technology

“Being an ex seafarer (I was an HR Manager onboard for 6 years) I fully appreciate the journey the crew go on when they join a ship. Once it was announced that quarantine was not going to be onboard, it made complete sense to me that we would be looking after our crew, and I wanted to be part of that. Everyone I have spoken to has been so happy to be back and getting ready to do what they love, and the conversations have been both heartwarming and humbling. I’m proud to work for a company that places such high value on their people’s welfare.” Michelle Harradence, Learning

“It’s been great to be able to support our crew during their time in quarantine and give something back. It’s especially rewarding when I was told: “Thank you for making my stay a lot better, I am very happy to have met you and your care gives a lot of difference.” Naomi Clarke, Technology

“I really enjoyed having the opportunity to call and check in with our seafarers. It’s been great chatting to them and learning about their roles and length of service on board. Many shared what they were most looking forward to about getting back on board and they were all so grateful for the support and care that Carnival have provided.” Andrea Reeves, Learning

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Thank you to everyone who has been supporting our fleet colleagues. It’s fantastic to see our Culture Essentials coming to life as we Respect and Protect our colleagues.

Would you like to get involved? The Wellbeing team needs more volunteers! If you can spare 30 to 60 minutes of your time, particularly at weekends, please contact Katrina Flynn.