On the day when the world celebrated the International Maritime Day, 26 September 2010, a group of ex-seafarers, deck officers and marine engineers, got together to launch Mariners Welfare Guild (the “Guild”), a helpline for the aggrieved sailor, in Chennai, India.

In the Guild’s own words:

“The Guild essentially has been created to provide counsel, guidance and solace to seafarers and their families when provisions for their care in employment fail, by educating them on their rights and opportunities available to them. It will also serve as a nerve centre for counselling in times of distress and emergencies as also for co-ordinating Seafarer welfare activities. The need has arisen due to the limitations and failures of the systems and procedures that exist in International and National Shipping Conventions and Rules.”

In its short span since its launch the Guild has gained support from individuals across the globe and from seafaring and non-seafaring population alike.

So next time you are at sea and for any unfortunate reason you should find yourself in need of some counselling, do not hesitate to contact the people behind the Guild. Full details are available at www.marinerswelfareguild.com.

This is a voluntary group and the Guild welcomes interests from individuals who can complement the service it provides, on a pro bono basis. Should you find that you have some spare time in hand and a talent to share, the Guild will be delighted to hear from you at contact@marinerswelfareguild.com. Alternatively you can show your support by registering your details on the website.