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):
Instructions:
Download the forms by clicking the links above.
Fill out the forms completely and attach any supporting documents or evidence.
Send the completed forms via email to: pg@helpful.foundation
Note:
Seafarer Membership Holders: No fee is required to register a complaint.
Non-Members: A fee is applicable for legal action and complaint registration.
Seafarer Issues for Complaint Registration with Helpful Foundation
1. Fraud and Misconduct
Fraud by RPSL Company (recruitment or placement fraud)
Misrepresentation of contracts or terms of employment
2. DG Shipping Related Issues
CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) – issuance, renewal, or verification issues
COC & CO (Certificate of Competency & Certificate of Officer) – delays, errors, or denial
C Certificate – problems with issuance or recognition
Examinations – scheduling issues, evaluation errors, or result disputes
3. Wages and Financial Issues
Non-payment or delayed payment of wages
Overtime disputes
Denial of leave or shore leave
Seaman’s Provident Fund (SPF) issues
Payment of death, missing, or injury compensation
4. Employment Abandonment
Abandonment by the shipowner or RPSL
Unlawful termination or breach of contract
5. Health, Safety, and Working Conditions
Injury or illness at sea without proper medical attention
Unsafe working conditions
Poor accommodation, food, or hygiene standards
Unsafe equipment onboard
6. Harassment and Discrimination
Sexual harassment or bullying on board
Discrimination based on nationality, gender, religion, or rank
7. Repatriation Issues
Delayed or denied repatriation
Stranded at sea or in foreign ports
Visa or documentation problems
8. Regulatory Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006)
Violations of seafarers’ rights under Indian or international laws
9. Accidents, Death, or Missing Crew Members
Death onboard or during deployment
Missing seafarers
Injury accidents and related claims
10. Other Issues
Any grievances not explicitly listed above, including procedural issues, communication failures, or employer misconduct
3. How to File a Complaint
Step 1: Document Everything
Collect employment contracts, wage slips, medical records, and communication logs
Step 2: Identify the Appropriate Authority
Employer → Flag State → Helpful Foundation → Legal Aid
Step 3: Submit a Written Complaint
Include:
Personal details
Ship details (name, IMO number, etc.)
Dates & description of the incident
Category of complaint
Evidence attached
Desired resolution
Step 4: Follow Up
Keep copies and track the status of your complaint
4. Membership Payment
Fee: ₹2500/- annually
Eligibility: Existing members serving on Indian-flag vessels only
Payment Queries: info@helpful.foundation
NOTE:
Seafarer Membership Holders: No fee is required to register a complaint or seek assistance.
Non-Members: A fee is applicable for legal action and registration of the complaint.
Note on Legal Fees
The legal fee for processing and pursuing a complaint with Helpful Foundation depends on the nature and complexity of the case.
Seafarer membership holders are exempt from fees for complaint registration and initial assistance.
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.
The complainant will be informed of the exact fee amount prior to proceeding with any legal or administrative process.
