Friday, 12th July
Propeller Club Liverpool is a staunch supporter of the Nautilus Welfare Fund, a seafarers’ charity that offers homes near the Wirral Waterfront for former seafarers and maritime industry professionals. Through our annual “Stars in Your Eyes” event, we proudly raise funds to assist this vital cause.
Mariner’s Park in Wallasey, a retirement community for those with significant careers in the maritime industry, currently has 13 available properties out of its 123. The Nautilus Welfare Fund, administered by Nautilus International, is spreading the word about these available homes.
Andrew Jones, director of welfare and care at the Nautilus Welfare Fund, emphasized the appeal of Mariner’s Park: “We have established a vibrant community in a beautiful location close to the River Mersey, offering stunning views of the Liverpool waterfront.”
Liverpool, steeped in maritime history, was one of the world’s most important ports in the 19th century. Today, with a £500m investment into the Liverpool2 container terminal, the Port of Liverpool is experiencing a resurgence. The local maritime sector remains a major employer, contributing over £5bn annually to the Liverpool city region’s economy and providing nearly 50,000 jobs.
Andrew Jones added, “If there aren’t people out there with maritime experience who are struggling for housing or want to be part of this community, I’d be very surprised. We want to spread the word: here we are.”
Nautilus Welfare Fund, almost 170 years old, supports retired or needy seafarers across the UK. Mariner’s Park, the residential part of the charity, offers independent living properties, supported living properties, and a care home for those with dementia or needing palliative care.
“We want people to join the park while they are still healthy, fit, and well so they can fully enjoy it,” Andrew said. “We are appealing to those who meet the criteria to explore this wonderful community.”
Mariner’s Park is also building a new facility with 27 two-bed apartments, representing a £10m investment. The charity welcomes applications from widowed spouses of seafarers as well.
Residents enjoy regular social events and can access home care services for shopping, cleaning, and other needs. All accommodations are fitted with a community alarm system, offering 24-hour emergency support. The estate features communal social areas, a laundry, a hairdresser’s salon, a gym, and a games room.
The Nautilus Welfare Fund, established by the Mercantile Marine Service Association (MMSA) in 1857, arose from concerns about the difficulties seafarers faced upon coming ashore. The MMSA council raised funds to provide residential facilities and financial support for aged, single and married seafarers, their dependants, and seafarers’ widows, leading to the creation of the Welfare Fund and Mariners’ Park.
Propeller Club Liverpool is proud to contribute to this enduring legacy through our fundraising efforts, the fund was our charity recipient from our Stars in Your Eyes gala, as we are keen to ensure that those who dedicated their lives to the maritime industry can enjoy a comfortable and supportive retirement.