Nautilus International is proud to be supporting the TUC's HeartUnions Week, which runs from 10-16 February 2025 – and we're asking our members to help out by encouraging other people onboard to join the Union.
HeartUnions week a great chance to explain why unions are vital for everyone at work, and talk to other people about signing up – because the more members we have in your workplace, the stronger we are when negotiating with your employer!
This year, the event's theme is 'Unions make work pay'. Union members earn tens of thousands more than non-union members over their working lives, and Nautilus International has been among the trade unions that have scored some big recent successes on pay.
In fact, the average pay rise for Nautilus members in 2025, across all sectors, was 5.9%. Our biggest wins were often achieved because our members in the workplace helped to recruit their colleagues and showed a united front to the employer.
Nautilus has also been lobbying hard at Westminster for legislation that will guarantee better wages – pay packets that reflect the hard work done by maritime professionals.
'This Heart Unions Week, we're showcasing how unions make work pay,' said Nautilus general secretary Mark Dickinson. 'We have been working to develop the new Employment Rights Bill to ensure it includes a mandatory Seafarers' Charter and puts an end to fire and rehire practices, like the disgraceful actions of P&O Ferries in 2022.
'By organising and understanding the needs and expectations of workers, unions like Nautilus can push for better pay and conditions through collective bargaining, ensuring that members receive a fair deal.
'As we expand the union to organise shore-based maritime professionals, we want businesses to work alongside unions to ensure workers' voices are heard. We believe in a successful maritime industry where workers receive fair pay and conditions for the work they do. That is how we build a strong framework for the future.'
There are lots of ways you can get involved with HeartUnions week. First and foremost, you could talk to other people at work about membership – especially if Nautilus has helped you with a problem in the workplace.
Alternatively, you can follow us on socials and help to share our messages with your networks – including our HeartUnions week videos.
We'd also love to hear from members who have been helped by Nautilus in the past regarding these areas: Bullying & Harassment, Unpaid Wages, or Pay Rises. Please contact us if you’re happy to speak on these issues and spread the word!
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