High-quality healthcare is one of the key needs of every seafarer. The Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine cares about the health and well-being of its members, so it continues implementing an important social initiative — free-of-charge dental care for seafarers and their families.
In 2021, the MTWTU and the German trade union ver.di presented UNION DENT — a project for seafarers, MTWTU members, who work on the ships of German shipowners covered by ver.di collective bargaining agreements. The project was launched at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, despite the constant challenges, the MTWTU, as a progressive trade union continues to open up new opportunities for seafarers.
Initially, the participants of the UNION DENT project were exclusively MTWTU seafarers, who work on ships of German shipowners covered by ver.di collective bargaining agreements. Considering the high cost of dental services in Ukraine, thanks to fruitful cooperation, the MTWTU and ver.di agreed to expand the programme*, so that participation is now available not only for seafarers but also for their families
The year 2022 brought new challenges for the Ukrainian nation. Martial law has changed the plans of every Ukrainian. Therefore, considering the latest difficulties, the programme was expanded to cover all seafarers and their families with the support of the ITF Seafarers' Trust.
Over the project's entire existence, thanks to international solidarity, about 240 seafarers and their families have received access to quality dental treatment free-of-charge. Everyone who has visited UNION DENT emphasises the professionalism of the medical staff and individual approach. The Marine Transport Workers' Trade Union of Ukraine doesn't change one of its key priorities — the health of its members and their families.
How to take advantage of the project?
1. Call the MTWTU Seafarers' Inspector to make an appointment at the clinic:
+38 0482 42 99 01
2. Arrive at the agreed time and bring the following documents:
For seafarer:
- Union Membership Card;
- Seaman’s Book;
- Seafarer’s Service Record Book;
- Passport of a citizen of Ukraine;
- Taxpayer Identification Number.
For seafarer's spouse:
- Seaman’s Book;
- Seafarer’s Service Record Book;
- Passport of a citizen of Ukraine;
- Taxpayer Identification Number;
- Marriage Certificate.
For seafarer's child aged from 12 to 18:
- Seaman’s Book;
- Seafarer’s Service Record Book;
- Passport of a citizen of Ukraine;
- Taxpayer Identification Number;
- Birth Certificate.
3. Sign a service agreement.
4. Visit a doctor and receive a treatment plan (if necessary).
*Project's extension for seafarers' family members is only valid for the period of military operations in Ukraine and will be terminated immediately after their official end.
