A SAILOR from Wirral who champions mental health and helped bring home a group of British maritime security guards jailed in India has been awarded a medal.

Steven Jones, 52, is among nine new recipients of the Merchant Navy Medal, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced.

Steven created the Seafarers Happiness Index in 2015, which monitors the mood of maritime workers.

This helps shipping companies and organisations to provide targeted support.

He also campaigned for the freedom of six British men jailed in India after being arrested in October 2013 on weapons charges while working as guards on a ship combatting piracy in the Indian Ocean.

Steven raised the profile of the so-called Chennai Six, exposing the injustice and the challenging conditions they faced.

The men won an appeal against their convictions in November 2017 and were given permission to leave India.

Maritime minister Mike Kane said: “It’s fantastic to see these nine remarkable sailors receive this very special award – the highest in the industry.

“Their dedication, bravery and fortitude is truly inspiring and shows the very best of UK maritime.

“I take pride in celebrating these individuals, as well as the many seafarers who make such a significant contribution to our country, both here and abroad.”

Steven said: “I’m thrilled to receive the Merchant Navy Medal.

“It’s absolutely vital that seafarers have a voice, are listened to by the industry and seen by society.

“I’m glad I am able to shine a light on the important work that seafarers do and I’ll continue to champion them in the years to come.”

Ben Bailey, Director of Programme at The Mission to Seafarers, added: "The Merchant Navy Medal highlights the very best in British and Commonwealth seafaring. Steven Jones has been instrumental in framing the debate on seafarers’ mental health, and ensuring the profession evolves to build a resilient workforce and meet their wellbeing needs.   

“The Mission to Seafarers is delighted to have worked with Steven on a number of issues over the years, most notably the Seafarers’ Happiness Index which remains an important barometer for social change in our industry. We congratulate Steven and all recipients receiving this worthy and important national honour.”  

The nine recipients will receive their medals on November 5 in a ceremony with the Princess Royal.