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Seafarer Complaints

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Seafarer Complaint Registration with Helpful Foundation

 

Download and Submit Forms
Click the links below to download the forms required to register your complaint with Helpful Foundation (HF):

  1. SEAFARERS’ COMPLAINT RESOLUTION FORM

  2. UNDERTAKING OF FEE PAID AFFIDAVIT

Instructions:                                                                                                       

  1. Download the forms by clicking the links above.

  2. Fill out the forms completely and attach any supporting documents or evidence.

  3. Send the completed forms via email to: pg@helpful.foundation

Note:

  1. Seafarer Membership Holders: No fee is required to register a complaint.

  2. Non-Members: A fee is applicable for legal action and complaint registration.

Seafarer Issues for Complaint Registration with Helpful Foundation

1. Fraud and Misconduct                                   
  1. Fraud by RPSL Company (recruitment or placement fraud)
  2. Misrepresentation of contracts or terms of employment
2. DG Shipping Related Issues                                                                               
  1. CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) – issuance, renewal, or verification issues
  2. COC & CO (Certificate of Competency & Certificate of Officer) – delays, errors, or denial
  3. C Certificate – problems with issuance or recognition
  4. Examinations – scheduling issues, evaluation errors, or result disputes
3. Wages and Financial Issues                                                 
  1. Non-payment or delayed payment of wages
  2. Overtime disputes
  3. Denial of leave or shore leave
  4. Seaman’s Provident Fund (SPF) issues
  5. Payment of death, missing, or injury compensation
4. Employment Abandonment
  1. Abandonment by the shipowner or RPSL
  2. Unlawful termination or breach of contract
5. Health, Safety, and Working Conditions
  1. Injury or illness at sea without proper medical attention
  2. Unsafe working conditions
  3. Poor accommodation, food, or hygiene standards
  4. Unsafe equipment onboard
6. Harassment and Discrimination 
  1. Sexual harassment or bullying on board
  2. Discrimination based on nationality, gender, religion, or rank
7. Repatriation Issues
  1. Delayed or denied repatriation
  2. Stranded at sea or in foreign ports
  3. Visa or documentation problems
8. Regulatory Non-Compliance
  1. Non-compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006)
  2. Violations of seafarers’ rights under Indian or international laws
9. Accidents, Death, or Missing Crew Members                   
  1. Death onboard or during deployment
  2. Missing seafarers
  3. Injury accidents and related claims
10. Other Issues
  1. Any grievances not explicitly listed above, including procedural issues, communication failures, or employer misconduct
3. How to File a Complaint
Step 1: Document Everything
  1. Collect employment contracts, wage slips, medical records, and communication logs
Step 2: Identify the Appropriate Authority
  1. Employer → Flag State → Helpful Foundation → Legal Aid
Step 3: Submit a Written Complaint
Include:
  1. Personal details
  2. Ship details (name, IMO number, etc.)
  3. Dates & description of the incident
  4. Category of complaint
  5. Evidence attached
  6. Desired resolution
Step 4: Follow Up
  1. Keep copies and track the status of your complaint
4. Membership Payment 
  1. Fee: ₹2500/- annually
  2. Eligibility: Existing members serving on Indian-flag vessels only
  3. Payment Queries: info@helpful.foundation

NOTE:

  1. Seafarer Membership Holders: No fee is required to register a complaint or seek assistance.

  2. Non-Members: A fee is applicable for legal action and registration of the complaint.

Note on Legal Fees

  1. The legal fee for processing and pursuing a complaint with Helpful Foundation depends on the nature and complexity of the case.

  2. Seafarer membership holders are exempt from fees for complaint registration and initial assistance.

  3. Non-members are required to pay the applicable legal fee, which will be communicated based on the specifics of the case, before filing or taking legal action.

  4. The complainant will be informed of the exact fee amount prior to proceeding with any legal or administrative process.