Hiring a Domestic Helper in Hong Kong - 1

“We have come to Hong Kong with certain dreams… We shouldn’t lose sight of that.” A Domestic Helper’s Honest And Heartwarming Story

Melba Espinoza — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 22:00:26 +0000

So many of us have domestic helpers in Hong Kong, but how often do we know what goes on in their lives? What happens when we look beyond their smiles, their bustling efficiency and their love for our children? A Hong Kong helper tells us her story.

When I was asked what it felt like to be a helper in Hong Kong, I had to stop and think. I’m nearly 54 years old now and I have been a helper for over 34 years… it’s safe to say that I don’t even remember what’s it like not to be a helper anymore!

From The Philippines To Hong Kong As A Domestic Helper

I come from a very small village in the Philippines. I had a happy childhood, but when my mother died when I was 11 years old, I had to start helping out at home. I also earned some extra money by working at my neighbours’ houses. I am one of six children, the fifth in the family and the second girl. I feel very proud that after the age of 20, I never had to rely on my family for money. In fact, I’ve been the one to support them through health, career and life crises.

I first worked in Abu Dhabi, UAE, for eight years. I took only a 15-day break before my next stint in Jordan. I worked there for over seven years and had two employers in that time, including working in the Palace for the Princess Aisha, the sister of King Abdullah II. After that was another stint in UAE, and I worked there for four years, followed by a short two-year stay in Saudi Arabia. In between contracts, I barely went home to the Philippines at all, and only spent a few days whenever I was back. I didn’t have the time to make a life there because I was so focused on finding my next contract.

After that, I decided to come to Hong Kong. My sister was already working here and I felt that this would be a better place to work in than the Middle East. I have been in Hong Kong over 10 years now. I have had four employers move away because of international relocation during this time, so I realise it’s a more transient city than the countries in the Middle East, but Hong Kong has its advantages and I am glad I moved here. Though we usually live in small accommodations, there are more rights here for domestic helpers, we enjoy our days off and there is a vibrant community of Filipino helpers here.

The Challenges Of Being A Helper In Hong Kong

The toughest part of being a foreign domestic worker is not the work itself, nor the hours, nor the regulations, nor adjusting to employers. It’s being away from your loved ones. While we are entitled to 15 days off every two years, most of my employers have been kind enough to give me more than my allotted days off. But when you see your family only once a year, three weeks is just not enough! I lost my father during COVID and I couldn’t be with him. I watched the funeral on Skype and just tried to remember the things that I am grateful for – that my job helped me build a comfortable home for him during the last years of his life.

Another aspect that causes a lot of worry is the renewal of the contract every two years.

“Being a helper is not just a job. Your heart is involved when there are kids, and when it’s contract renewal time, sometimes you feel disowned for absolutely no fault of yours.”

It’s never happened to me, but friends have lost their jobs because an employer didn’t want to pay long-term fees. And with many of my employers having relocated, I feel as if I have lost four families. It’s been emotionally draining to find a new family each time, a new home and love and acceptance all over again.

Dealing With Employer-Helper Conflict

In any job, there will be some tension between employer and employee. I understand that. The only thing is that for domestic helpers, there is no boundary between our work and any other aspect of our life – we live at our workplace and in the homes of our employers, so sometimes we feel completely at their mercy (even when they are very nice people, it is an uncomfortable feeling).

We Filipinos are usually very good with babies and children – we have been raised with so many around us! So sometimes, new mothers and working mums get jealous of our bond with their children. They should understand that if there is anyone in the world who would understand the pain of separation and mum guilt, it’s us!

“Sometimes, our employers forget that we are mothers too and we are not trying to take their place. It’s natural to love a child you take care of and to shower a little extra affection, especially when you are missing your own baby.”

In another instance that happened when I was in the Middle East, I was not allowed sunscreen. I didn’t ask my employer to buy it. I bought it myself with my earnings. Perhaps I had bought a more expensive brand than necessary (I don’t even remember – I was so young then!) but it sparked something in my employer and she forbade me from using it. Her husband realised it was unfair and intervened, but I haven’t been able to forget the hurt and humiliation I felt, though it happened over 25 years ago.

What I Have Gained From Being A Domestic Helper

I have to be honest – while there are many sad aspects, it’s not a bad life. I have had the chance to live and work in six countries, travel to many more and meet many interesting people. It’s not an opportunity I would have had normally. And now and then, you find a family that embraces you wholeheartedly. My former employers loved and accepted me as part of their family. Their children would make video calls to my son every weekend and bonded with him, even though they hadn’t met him. My employers wanted to bring him to Hong Kong for the summer holidays, but then COVID upended all plans. They have now relocated but we are still very much in touch. We talk regularly, meet when they visit Hong Kong and in this case, I know I will always be a part of their lives wherever they go. They now plan to pay for both me and my son to visit them in India. We have been planning the trip for a while now and I am very excited – I need to get my son’s passport sorted soon!

Advice For My Fellow Helpers In Hong Kong

When things get tough, I remind myself why I am doing this job. It’s to build a better life for myself and my loved ones. Given the employment situation in our home countries, it’s more lucrative to be a domestic helper in Hong Kong than to have a skills-based job in the Philippines (I should know – my sister is an engineer and couldn’t find a job back home!). And I am grateful that I have been able to do that with some smart investing and saving.

This is one piece of advice I would like to give my fellow domestic workers: we have all come here with certain dreams. When we live here alone, in this highly materialistic city, it’s easy to forget that and get caught up in the lure of the latest swanky gadget, that stunning gown, that influencer-endorsed makeup… I’m not saying it’s wrong to want things, but weigh what you want more. If what you want most is to build a better life and to go back home (because as you know, we cannot become permanent residents here), then don’t waste your hard-earned money. There are plenty of courses and institutions that will teach you about financial planning here in Hong Kong and online. Use them wisely, save for your future, don’t get caught in the moneylending trap, don’t fall for online marriage proposals (it’s heartbreaking to see friends get scammed!) and work hard to get where you want to. It all pays off eventually.

I was introduced to domestic work when I was just 11 years old… now that I think about it, that’s how old my son is now. I say a little prayer and thank God every day that he doesn’t have to go through the same things I went through. He is enjoying his childhood, riding his bike in the village, attending school and being a kid, just as he should! Maybe my whole life has been worth it after all!

Editor’s Note: Melba Espinoza told her story to her former employer and forever family member, Anita Balagopalan

The post “We have come to Hong Kong with certain dreams… We shouldn’t lose sight of that.” A Domestic Helper’s Honest And Heartwarming Story appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Domestic Helper Resources: How To Help Your Helper

Sassy Mama — Thu, 04 May 2023 22:00:44 +0000

Did you know May is domestic helper appreciation month? We’ve put together tips and resources to help you empower your helper.

We at Sassy Mama think domestic helpers need to be applauded every single day! After all, they work tirelessly through the year, often putting our and our family’s needs ahead of their own. As much as they contribute to daily life in the city, domestic helpers, especially foreign domestic workers (FDW) in Hong Kong often face many challenges – from stress, heavy workload and homesickness to financial issues and beyond.

So what can we do to help? A good way to make a difference in a domestic worker’s life is to provide them with all the resources they need to empower themselves to achieve emotional, mental and financial stability. Read on to discover where you can find these resources in Hong Kong.

Emotional And Mental Support For Domestic Helpers

HELP For Domestic Workers

HELP ensures that domestic workers feel comfortable with their mental health and well-being. It encourages them to seek support and enrol for free in its mental well-being support programme. HELP offers private and group counselling, and forms peer support groups that provide an opportunity to share personal experiences, express emotions and be heard in an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding.

HELP for Domestic Workers, Room 606, 6/F, 299 QRC, 287-299 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan, Central, Hong Kong, 2523 4020, www.helpfordomesticworkers.org

Christian Action

Since 1993, Christian Action has provided service programmes for migrant domestic workers to help them understand their rights. It also provides psychological counselling and assistance to address their emotional problems and mental health, plus it also organises regular recreational activities to help them build their social circles.

Christian Action, 55 Clearwater Bay Road, Choi Wan Estate, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2382 3339, www.christian-action.org.hk

PathFinders

One of the challenges that your domestic helper may face is juggling pregnancy and maternity leave. PathFinders is a non-profit organisation that ensures the mother, baby and you as the employer, have the smoothest transition possible.

PathFinders, Unit 11C, Worldwide Centre, 123 Tung Chau Street,
Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 5500 5486, www.pathfinders.org.hk

Financial Literacy For Domestic Helpers

Talking about finances with your helper can be challenging, especially if they encounter difficult financial situations. This is where financial education comes in. Check out the below organisations that provide financial literacy workshops to empower domestic helpers.

Enrich HK

Enrich allows you to ensure the well-being of your helper proactively. You can sponsor your helper by simply selecting from its affordable workshops and the rest will be taken care of! It also sends you notifications via email when your helper has finished a workshop.

Enrich HK, 1102, Enterprise Building, 228-238 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2386 5811, www.enrichhk.org

Uplifters

Uplifters have a six-month free online programme for domestic workers where they can learn about money management, personal development and mental health. Since everything is done online, courses are available based on your helper’s schedule!

Uplifters, 2155, 21/F Remex Centre, 42 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, 9731 9713, www.uplifters-edu.org

Empower U

An education platform by The University of Hong Kong, EmpowerU provides online and offline training to migrant domestic workers. Courses are taught by expert educators who have designed this program based on the unique needs of domestic helpers. Your helper can select from various courses including Business & Finance, Entrepreneurship & Leadership, Information Technology and more.

Empower U, www.empoweru.io

Hobbies And Interest Classes For Domestic Helpers

Another way to show your support is to assist your helper in finding and growing their own circle. Domestic helpers can build their own community through shared interests, which means they’ll have their own support system. Below are some classes for domestic helpers that you could help them enrol in.

Dee Dream Life

Dee Dream Life provides super affordable (classes start from $50!) Zumba, yoga, dance, fitness and life coaching classes for adults and children from all walks of life. It aims to make fitness and fun accessible to all members of society across Hong Kong, regardless of race, gender or social status.

Dee Dream Life, Level 14, Unit 1401, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong, 6334 4266, www.deedreamlife.com

Kick Action

Martial arts is said to develop strength, coordination and, most importantly, confidence. Kick action provides opportunities for domestic workers to learn self-defence whilst being introduced to new skills that will challenge their minds and bodies. Each session lasts one hour and helps domestic workers to relieve stress by keeping them engaged in something they enjoy.

Kick Action, WhatsApp: 9667 5373, www.facebook.com/kickaction.hk

Splash

Splash has learn-to-swim adult programmes primarily for migrant domestic workers and refugees. All your helper will need is a swimsuit and a pair of goggles (rashguards, swim shorts and burkinis are okay too as long as it is made from swimsuit material).

Splash, www.splashfoundation.org

Andiappan Yoga Community

A volunteer-based nonprofit organisation, Andiappan Yoga Community offers therapeutic yoga classes to those in need.

Andiappan Yoga Community, 801, 1 Lyndhurst Tower, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong, www.yogacommunity.org

Pherform

A female-specific strength and conditioning gym, Pherform created Pherform Dream Team membership class in 2016 to provide domestic helpers with the opportunity to train for free. Classes are held at Tamar Park every Sunday.

Pherform, www.pherform.com/membershipoptions

YWCA Cooking Classes

YWCA offers two cooking classes designed specifically for domestic helpers – Cooking with Rehana (she teaches Pakistani curries focusing on how to use spices) and Cooking with Renu (she teaches international cuisines and desserts).

YWCA Cooking Classes, www.clle.ywca.org.hk

Editor’s Note: “Domestic Helper Resources: How To Help Your Helper” was most recently updated in May 2023 by Najuka Redkar.

The post Domestic Helper Resources: How To Help Your Helper appeared first on Sassy Mama.

“All Children Deserve A Fair Start In Life” Sassy Mama Supports: PathFinders Hong Kong

Fashila Kanakka — Tue, 02 May 2023 22:00:50 +0000

PathFinders directly serves Hong Kong’s most vulnerable babies born to migrant domestic workers, we take a closer look at what the organisation does and how we can all get involved.

Domestic helpers are the backbone of Hong Kong. With May being Helper Appreciation Month and International Domestic Workers Day coming up in June, we’re taking this opportunity to show our token of appreciation for the immense work our helpers do on a day-to-day basis.

Beyond their warm smiles and generous nature, migrant domestic workers face more than a handful of hurdles, to say the least. Perhaps the biggest challenge of all, juggling pregnancy and maternity leave. Many helpers conceal their bump in fear of having their contract terminated and it can be a tricky situation for both parties involved. This is where PathFinders Hong Kong, a non-profit organisation ensures the mother, baby and employer have the smoothest transition possible. We talk to its Director of Fundraising, Harriet Beavis on how PathFinders handles this issue and how we can contribute.

Tell us about Pathfinders. What’s the main issue you tackle?

PathFinders is the only Hong Kong charity dedicated to supporting the unique vulnerabilities of children born to migrant mothers (either current or former).

“We are guided by the fundamental belief that all children deserve a fair start in life.”

Since 2008, PathFinders has helped over 10,400 migrant mothers and children facing crisis to find a path to a brighter future, and this year is particularly special and meaningful for us as we’re turning 15!

How serious is the issue of Foreign Domestic Helpers being told to leave their jobs if they get pregnant? What options do domestic workers have if this happens to them?

Every year 500 children and their migrant mothers seek our specialist care and protection.

Most of the pregnancies we see are unplanned, and as a result, the expectant mother may conceal her pregnancy, resign or their employment contract may be terminated as neither they nor their employer know what else to do.

When this happens the expectant mother immediately becomes homeless and within two weeks, when her working visa expires she loses access to healthcare, vital for her unborn child.

What does Pathfinders do to educate both the domestic workers and the employees on this issue?

Hong Kong currently employs 340,000 migrant domestic workers and it’s set to rise up to 600,000 with our rapidly ageing population. Many of these domestic helpers are of childbearing age but they lack reproductive health knowledge. We therefore adopt an educational and preventative approach towards ensuring every pregnancy is considered and planned, thereby enabling a clear, stable and brighter future path for every child.

When a domestic helper gets pregnant, many employers lack sufficient and accurate information to guide them on how to support the pregnancy. This is why we created a step-by-step guidebook, My Worker is Pregnant that seeks to support employers through their emotions and onto a path that gives them, their worker and their household the solutions they need.

We are also working to influence systemic and policy change to overcome some of the key challenges faced by employers when their domestic helper is pregnant. This includes the legal requirement to live in and a lack of affordable solutions for temporary cover during maternity leave, particularly for those with young children and/or elderly parents who are more reliant on their helpers.

What would be your top piece of advice for employers who find out their helper is pregnant? Or what is the best thing an employer can do to support their worker if they are pregnant?

When an employer finds out their helper is pregnant, they may feel confused, shocked and even betrayed. Their mind may race with multiple questions and concerns, “She came here to work, why did she get pregnant?” or “My husband and I work full time – can she cope with caring for my young children when she is pregnant?” and so on.

“These are all very real concerns that without careful thought and planning can result in a migrant domestic worker being unlawfully terminated, pressured to leave or resign – actions that may ultimately cause the helper and her child to fall into a crisis.”

The good news is that after the initial shock, many employers have been able to work through the challenges and come up with practical solutions for their households and their workers.

What is your latest campaign?

This year is our 15th anniversary and we have lined up a number of events where the public can learn about our work, the future we desire for migrant mothers and their children and how they can contribute.

In the run-up to Mother’s Day, we have invited award-winning photographer Xyza Cruz Bacani from New York for an exhibition that showcases a raw and insightful look into migration and motherhood through a series of thought-provoking photographs from her renowned book, We Are Like Air. She will also be one of the panelists (along with Dr Lucy Jordan from HKU and PathFinders CEO, Catherine Gurtin) for a deep dive into the issues faced by foreign domestic helpers.

How can people get involved?

We can’t do what we do without your generous support. There are numerous ways you can help by either donating money, volunteering your time and expertise, partnering with us, donating baby supplies, or simply spreading the word about our service!

You can also show your support this Mother’s Day by donating here to help us care for and support vulnerable migrant mothers and babies, investments of HK$500 or more before Mother’s Day will receive a fun and meaningful Pioneers Pack – pass it on to a child you know – they have the potential to be the next changemaker!

For more steps on how to get involved, you can check its website or reach out to PathFinders via donations@pathfinders.org.hk or volunteers@pathfinders.org.hk, or 5500 5486.

The post “All Children Deserve A Fair Start In Life” Sassy Mama Supports: PathFinders Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Domestic Helpers In Hong Kong: Salary, Food Allowance, Contract Renewal And More

Sassy Mama — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 22:00:02 +0000

Hiring a domestic helper is a big responsibility. If you don’t quite understand the ins and outs of domestic helper salary, contract renewal, statutory holidays, annual leave and food allowances this handy guide will help.

A domestic helper can be an invaluable addition to your family. But if you’ve never hired a domestic helper before, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the legally-worded contract forms. Don’t worry! In a busy city like Hong Kong, thousands of domestic helpers are employed, taking on chores like cooking, childminding, laundry and much more, and go on to become integral and valuable members of the family. Hiring the right domestic helper can bring you peace of mind and is well worth the sometimes long and tedious process. Here’s all you need to know to get started.

Jump To:
Who can hire a domestic helper in Hong Kong
Salary, food allowance and other domestic helper costs
Annual leave and statutory holidays for Hong Kong domestic helpers
Sick leave and maternity leave for domestic helpers
Where to find a domestic helper in Hong Kong
Questions to ask before hiring a domestic helper
What to expect when your domestic helper starts work
Contract Renewal for your domestic helper
Ending a contract with your domestic helper

Are You Eligible To Hire A Domestic Helper In Hong Kong?

There are some basic requirements you must meet before hiring a domestic helper in Hong Kong:

You need to be a Hong Kong resident.
Your monthly household income should be over $15,000.
You should not be blacklisted for underpaying or any other issue with regard to hiring a helper.
You need to sign the standard employment contract which clearly states that the helper can work only for you and cannot be asked to work for your friends or relatives.
You must provide your helper with appropriate accommodation with basic living facilities.
Compensation insurance for the helper is mandatory; you will be required to take care of her medical expenses as well.

To start the hiring process, you must fill up and sign four copies of the standard employment contract – ID407 (one will be for the helper’s Consulate, one will be with Immigration and the other copies are for the employer and domestic helper respectively). You must also fill out immigration application forms (ID988A and ID988B) and provide a few supporting documents.

Salary, Food Allowance And Other Costs Of Hiring A Domestic Helper

The minimum domestic helper salary is $4,730 per month. Domestic helpers are entitled to a food allowance of $1,196 per month or the employer must provide free food.

You will also need to budget for:

Compensation insurance: this covers your helper in the case of a workplace injury or occupational disease
Medical examination fees (prior to commencement of contract) and ongoing medical care (it’s strongly recommended by the Government that you take our medical insurance for your domestic helper)
Authentication fees by the relevant consulate
Visa fee
One return-trip airfare per contract (one flight to commence employment and another to go home at the end of the contract)

Statutory Holidays And Annual Leave Calculation For For Domestic Helpers

Domestic helpers are entitled to one rest day in every period of seven days. Most of the time, the rest day is on Sunday but the employer and helper may choose any weekday, based on mutual agreement.

According to the Labour Department, domestic helpers are also entitled to paid annual leave. This is seven days per year in the first and second years of the contract (can be taken during or immediately after the contract finishing), increasing by one day per year of service to a maximum of 14 days per year (for nine years or more of service).

Domestic helpers are also entitled to the 13 statutory holidays set by the Labour Department. This topic often causes a lot of confusion amongst employers as the Government has also set out 17 general holidays – 13 of which are the same as the statutory holidays.

Important to note: Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Monday and Boxing Day are NOT statutory holidays so it is up to the employer whether to grant these depending on their individual circumstance.

Sick Leave And Maternity Leave For Domestic Helpers

Sick leave for domestic helpers

The Labour Department has determined that domestic helpers accumulate two sick days per month of service in the first year (so 24 days in the first year), and four sick days per month thereafter, up to a maximum of 120 days.

If your helper is taking four days off or more, then the sick leave allowance is four-fifths of their average daily wages. The sick leave should be supported by an appropriate medical certificate.

Maternity leave for domestic helpers

Just like any other employee, domestic helpers are entitled to maternity leave. This is something that can test the helper-employer relationship and so it is necessary to be aware of your responsibilities as an employer.

Your domestic helper is entitled to 14 weeks, of continuously paid maternity leave paid at four-fifths the average daily wage (employers may apply to the government for reimbursement of four of those weeks’ pay).
Your helper should have been working for you for more than 40 weeks prior to their intended leave (i.e. gotten pregnant after they took up the position), given notice of intended leave and provided confirmation of pregnancy and expected confinement dates from a doctor.
The live-in rule still applies during pregnancy and maternity leave and you may need to modify your helper’s workload (in regards to lifting objects and exposure to some cleaning products). You’ll also need to provide time to allow her to get to her prenatal medical appointments.
Your helper may choose to return home for the birth, and in this case, you’ll need to negotiate an earlier start date for her leave to allow her to safely fly.

The Hong Kong-based NGO, Pathfinders, provides some great resources for both domestic helpers who are pregnant and also for employers navigating the situation.

Hiring A Domestic Helper In Hong Kong

If you are looking to hire a domestic worker currently overseas, you are required to process her visa through a licensed helper agency. However, if she is from the Philippines and about to finish her current contract in Hong Kong, it might be easier and shorter (2 to 4 weeks), if you can process the contract by yourself (for those in a hurry or familiar with the process, this is often the best option).

The immigration department might take anywhere between 4 to 8 weeks to process helper visa applications, depending on the number of applications. The period may get further extended if the department calls for further investigation. In such cases, obtaining a visa might take even 3 to 4 months.

If you are not familiar with the visa rules or the government criteria, you can always seek the help of a trustworthy agency or contact the immigration department. Here’s how to find domestic helpers in Hong Kong.

Domestic Helper Agencies

If you’ve not had a helper before, you can try exploring helper agencies. Reputed ones have huge helper databases with complete information such as their previous employment, reviews, health record and termination contracts (and the reasons given). You can go through the profiles, shortlist some and talk to those who you feel can sync with your family. Agencies will then manage the visa and paperwork process on your behalf. This could cost anywhere from $4,000 (for a finished contract helper already in the city) to $12,000 (for a direct-hire helper from overseas).

There are a lot of agencies operating in Hong Kong but not all are ethical; some have gotten warnings or licences revoked as a result of unfair practices. Our picks would be HelperPlace, Arrow Employment Services and Fair Employment Agency. Take your time to do your research and choose one carefully, because you wouldn’t want your domestic worker to start her journey in the city (and with your family) carrying loans after being exploited by the agency.

Direct Hire Domestic Helpers

You can also hire a helper through references from your colleagues, friends, family or even Facebook. Some online platforms have tools to allow you to easily screen and interview potential helpers. These are really useful if you are looking for a helper who has finished, or is close to finishing, her existing contract. Since she is already in Hong Kong, it helps speed up the hiring process.

Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Domestic Helper

Once you have decided on a candidate, have a detailed discussion with her:

Check the helper’s previous experience and get to know the skills that she excels in (you could ask her for references).
Understand the candidate’s job expectations (it’s about her happiness as well!).
Take her around your house and introduce her to your family members so that she better understands her role and your expectations.
Be clear with what you want her to do and within what timeframe each task should be completed.

Hire the helper only if you are convinced that it’s a suitable arrangement for both.

What To Expect When Your Domestic Helper Starts Work

Once you are done with all the processing and your helper arrives home, the first thing you need to do is make her feel comfortable in the new environment. Both you and your employee should be patient and understanding of each other’s requirements. The secret to a happy home is having a happy helper.

Do not ask her to start with the domestic chores on the day she arrives; let her get to know the family instead.
The first few days might be frustrating; your helper may not know how to use every appliance in your home. Teach her with patience and you will see her respond with interest and dedication.
English is often not a helper’s first language. Talk slowly and clearly and, as far as possible, use words and terms that she is familiar with.
Discuss what you and your family members will call her and how she should address you. Minor things like this often bring misunderstandings later on.
Provide her with clean, well-ventilated and comfortable accommodation. It shows that you care for her comfort and she will care for your family in return.
Don’t use harsh and abusive words that hurt her emotionally. Be sensitive that she is working away from friends and family and is dependent on you for most things.
Review her work often. It will be easier to make changes and meet or correct mutual expectations when done on a regular basis, rather than after discontent has been brewing for a while.

Renewal Of Contract For Your Domestic Helper

To start the process of a contract renewal for your domestic helper you should submit all your paperwork within eight weeks of the current contract expiring.
In between contracts, the helper should return to their country of origin for at least seven days, with the travel costs provided by the employer. If mutually agreed, you can apply for an extension of stay (ID988A and ID988B). In this scenario, the helper would normally have to return to their home country within 12 months of the contract starting.

Ending Your Domestic Helper’s Contract

Why can a domestic helper’s contract come to an end?

A domestic helper’s contract can come to an end for several reasons. Some terms you might hear are:

A finished contract — simply means the two-year contract has come to an end.
Terminated by the employer for relocation.
Terminated by the employer or domestic helper for another reason.

You or your domestic helper can terminate the contract at any time, so long as they have sufficient reasons, by providing one month’s notice or one month’s pay in lieu of notice.

If there has been serious misconduct by either party the contract can be terminated immediately. This is only applicable in very serious circumstances such as willfully disobeying the law or being guilty of fraud, or if the domestic helper is reasonably in fear of their physical safety or is subjected to mistreatment.

The Immigration Department provides more information on terminating contracts and also form ID407E which you will need to fill in.

What happens after the domestic helper’s contract has ended?

Your domestic helper will be permitted to stay in Hong Kong for 14 days after the conclusion of a contract. Check the current legislation with the immigration department as this may alter.

You will need to make sure all payments are up-to-date, including any outstanding wages and food allowances, annual leave (paid pro-rata so long as the helper has worked for you more than three months), passage home as well as long service leave (if your helper has worked for you for longer than five years) or severance pay (if the termination is due to redundancy).

It’s worth noting that either long service leave OR severance pay may be applicable, but not both. Check the Hong Kong Labour Department’s FAQs for more details.

There is a wealth of information available from the Labour Department (although some of it can be a bit difficult to decipher!). Check out this Handy Guide For Employers for official explanations and advice on employing a domestic helper in Hong Kong.

Having the support of a trusted helper makes all the difference to the quality of family life that you can get in Hong Kong. We hope that this is the start of a beautiful relationship for you and your family.

Editor’s Note: “Domestic Helpers In Hong Kong: Salary, Food Allowance, Contract Renewal And More” was most recently updated in March 2023 by Najuka Redkar.

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The Most Useful Classes For Helpers In Hong Kong

Cecily Radford — Mon, 11 May 2020 22:00:09 +0000

Some ways you can help your helper.

All families in Hong Kong who have helpers know just what a blessing these amazing women and men can be! If you have a domestic worker at home, you have to ensure that she (or he) feels supported and cared for. Families are now increasing their efforts to enhance the well-being and future prospects of their domestic helper by enrolling them in a class targeting a particular skill or activity. In going beyond the specifications of the employment contracts, families are ensuring that their domestic helper feels appreciated whilst caring for their family and home. What’s even better is that both the employer and the worker benefit mutually. Take your pick from this variety of useful and interesting classes and workshops for helpers in Hong Kong.

Child And Baby Care
First Aid And CPR
Money Management And Personal Growth
Language And Culture Programmes
Food And Nutrition
Sports And Fitness

Editor’s Note: The situation in Hong Kong regarding closures and restrictions on opening hours due to the coronavirus is constantly evolving. Many businesses are taking extra precautions, but please advise your helper to follow the latest government advice and stay home if he or she has recently travelled overseas, has interacted with anyone who has been away, or displays any symptoms. Many of these classes are temporarily suspended and will resume after the COVID-19 outbreak has been contained or are available online.

Child And Baby Care

From swaddling and feeding to handling misbehaviours and communicating with young children, learning the ropes of child and baby care is essential for ensuring your little ones are safe and well looked after. Helpers can benefit from child care classes too as that is often the first type of experience potential employers look at.

Uplifters

Uplifters works to empower underprivileged communities with online education and specialises in learning modules for domestic workers. Its baby care online content is developed by a paediatrician and covers baby care, safety and development from 0 to 18 months of age. Tailormade for helpers, other topics covered in this class are baby well-being, hygiene, food safety, baby’s milestones, health and how to communicate with your employer.

Uplifters, hello@uplifters-edu.org, www.uplifters-edu.org

Annerley

Annerley, the midwives clinic at OT&P, offers a variety of baby care training classes and courses for helpers. These range from caring for children (taught by a behavioural therapist to teach your helper to deal with toddler behaviour) to a baby care workshop for infants from 0 to 12 months old.

Annerley – Midwives Clinic, LG floor, Century Square, 1 D’Aguilar Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2983 1558, annerley@otandp.com, www.annerley.com.hk

InspirED

InspirED was started in 2018 by a qualified Early Years Practitioner. It offers helper training courses as it recognises that domestic workers play an important role in our families and in the life of the children in their care. It has a wide variety of programmes including communication with young children, learning through play in the early years, helping children learn to cooperate and more.

InspirED, 61913343, inspiredhk1@gmail.com, www.inspiredhk.com

Matilda International Hospital 

The Matilda International Hospital runs a child care course designed for domestic helpers, especially those working with children aged 0 to 1 years. A multiple-choice examination is given to the students at the end of the course, and a performance evaluation will be completed by the teacher. They’ll get a record of attendance by the Matilda International Hospital if they pass.

Matilda International Hospital, 41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak, Hong Kong, 2849 0357, health@matilda.org, info@matilda.org, www.matilda.org

First Aid And CPR

A knowledge of first aid practices is vital to ensure that your helper can provide the right medical assistance in the case of an emergency.

Hong Kong Red Cross 

Hong Kong Red Cross offers an 8-hour domestic helper first aid course in English, Cantonese or Putonghua. The programme aims at heightening the domestic helpers’ alertness when dealing with injuries and household accident prevention. The course can be conducted at the client’s premises or at the Red Cross Training Centre.

Hong Kong Red Cross, various locations across Hong Kong, 3971 0288, hcs@redcross.org.hk, info@redcross.org.hk, www.redcross.org.hk

Best First Aid

Best First Aid provides a 3-hour class focusing on infant and child first aid and CPR. The course focuses on the types of medical emergencies that children face, and how they differ from adult conditions.

Best First Aid, 5 Tai Mong Tsai Road, Sai Kung, Hong Kong, 9239 8369, Info@Bestfirstaidhk.com, www.bestfirstaidhk.com

Matilda International Hospital 

The Matilda International Hospital runs a paediatric emergency first aid training course. A practical examination is required to test participants’ practical skills of CPR and first aid.

Matilda International Hospital, 41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak, Hong Kong, 2849 0357, health@matilda.org, info@matilda.org, www.matilda.org

Annerley

Along with the nuts and bolts of safety, First Aid and CPR, Annerley focuses on making the best choices in certain situations. It offers a 4-hour intensive first aid course for helpers that is interactive and hands-on. The students are expected to participate and practise, with child-size CPR mannequins to facilitate this.

Annerley – Midwives Clinic, LG floor, Century Square, 1 D’Aguilar Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2983 1558, annerley@otandp.com, www.annerley.com.hk

Money Management And Personal Growth

This is one of the greatest gifts you could give your helper. It will stand her (or him) in good stead long after he or she has moved on from your household. Given that most domestic workers have small salaries and large families to take care of, financial education classes for helpers are important to help them learn to save and grow their hard-earned money.

Enrich

Enrich believes that financial education is essential for empowerment. It has a variety of classes from beginners’ workshops like Money-Wise Migrants to teach the basics of money management to advanced courses such as Setting Up My Business for helpers who have entrepreneurial ambitions. Enrich aims to teach domestic workers to escape debt, plan for their future and achieve their dreams.

Enrich, 1102 Enterprise Building, 228-238 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong, 2386 5811, info@enrichhk.org, www.enrichhk.org

Uplifters

The vision of the Uplifters Personal Growth course is to help domestic workers build sustainable futures for themselves, their families and their countries. The programme has two modules to be completed over six months. It is available via an online classroom making it flexible to fit the schedules of your helper.

Uplifters, hello@uplifters-edu.org, www.uplifters-edu.org

Language And Cultural Programmes

From mastering English, Cantonese and Mandarin, to learning to communicate with an employer effectively, language and culture programmes are key to helping your helper feel comfortable in the family home.

Caritas Community Development Service

Caritas’ Asian Migrant Workers Social Service Project runs orientation seminars that are designed to help domestic workers understand the culture, work expectations, and common living habits of Chinese and Western employers. Their courses encourage helpers to participate collectively, to take on social responsibilities and articulate their rights. They also run English, Cantonese and Mandarin courses.

Caritas Asian Migrant Workers Social Service Project (Weekday office), Room 7-8, 1/F, Lee Ga Building, 131 Sai Wan Ho Street, Shau Kei Wan, Hong Kong

Caritas Asian Migrant Workers Social Service Project (Weekend centre), G/F., 28A Fortress Hill Road, Fortress Hill, Hong Kong, 2147 5988, SMS and WhatsApp for FDH: 5497-2899, cdamp@caritassws.org.hk, www.cd.caritas.org.hk

H.O.P.E.

H.O.P.E’s vision and mission is to support and enhance the integration of ethnic minorities in Hong Kong society. It aims to create an inclusive community that embraces cultural diversity and racial harmony. They also run English and Cantonese classes at Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Levels at $100 for a 50-hour course. There are also cross-cultural activities, personality development and youth programmes.

H.O.P.E., 3/F, Tak Lee Commercial Building, 113-117 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2836 3598, ethnic_centre@isshk.org, www.isshk-hope.org

Enrich

Enrich’s Speak Up course enables your helper to build confidence, communicate effectively and know his or her rights. It is also useful as it coaches helpers to manage peer pressure, particularly when dealing with friends and family that borrow money.

Enrich, 1102 Enterprise Building, 228-238 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong, 2386 5811, info@enrichhk.org, www.enrichhk.org

Food And Nutrition

Finding a cooking class for your helper will mean that your family is provided with a healthy and balanced diet, often made from locally sourced food.

Super Helper

Super Helper runs courses that teach the basics and beyond of Western cooking, Asian cooking (currently on hold) and home management (child care and housekeeping). Cooking and housekeeping workshops are conducted in separate locations.

Super Helper Cooking Classes, 14A 49 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, 3594 6111, www.superhelper.org

Cook like a Chef

Cook like a Chef teaches global food skills prepared with market-driven ingredients. These classes are held twice a week, and domestic helpers are welcome to join in. Meenu Chugani, who runs the course, offers individual, package and customised classes.

Cook like a Chef, 6083 0430, meenuchugani@netvigator.com, www.cook-likeachef.com

YWCA

The YWCA regularly runs cooking classes as part of its Helper Training Academy. Over six days, helpers are taught the basics of Western cooking and kitchen management. Helpers are taught to make meals for the whole day, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts and snacks. However, these classes are currently on hold due to the coronavirus outbreak and are expected to resume after July.

YWCA – Centre of Learning and Life Enhancement, 3/F, 1 MacDonnell Road, Central, Hong Kong, 3476 1340, clle@ywca.org.hk, www.clle.ywca.org.hk

Sports And Fitness

Sport and fitness are key for ensuring the well being of your helper. Whether it’s learning a new sporting skill, or providing the time for them to participate in a course or weekly class, some physical activity will contribute to better mental and physical health.

Pherform

Pherform is the first female-specific strength and conditioning system designed for working women; and your helper might enjoy being coached by female coaches. Pherform’s “Dream Team” provides free outdoor sessions at Tamar Park with yoga followed by a workout. It is the perfect social setting for your helper’s health training on her day off.

Pherform Dream Team, Amphitheatre, Tamar Park, Admiralty, Hong Kong, 2798 8824, info@pherform.com, www.facebook.com/groups/pherformdreamteam 

Splash 

Learning to swim can be life-changing which is why Splash offers free adult swimming programmes for migrant domestic workers over the course of twelve weeks. While the programme is free, the attendance requirements are strict and the first class is mandatory (no exceptions). If you would like to fund and encourage your helper to swim (critical if your helper will be accompanying your child for swim classes), you could arrange paid weekday programmes at your apartment complex or private club. Rates start at $2,000 per person for a 12-hour programme. You will need to find like-minded friends as the minimum class size is eight.

Splash, various locations across Hong Kong, info@splashhk.com, www.splashfoundation.org

United Taekwondo Academy Hong Kong

If you are interested in getting your helper to learn martial arts, consider United Taekwondo Academy Hong Kong which has classes every weekend on Saturday and Sunday across various sports centres across the city. It has a large number of member helpers for its programmes.

United Taekwondo Academy, 96755719, sailenrai@hotmail.com, www.facebook.com/sailentkd

Andiappan Yoga Community

Given the stresses of her work, you may find that your helper benefits immensely from the practice of yoga. Andiappan Yoga Community is a non-profit, fully volunteer organisation with a mission is to share yoga with those who may not be able to afford yoga classes. All its yoga instructors are certified with the International Yoga Academy and are committed to teaching yoga on a strictly volunteer basis. You could also join a free online class with your helper to encourage her to get started.

Andiappan Yoga Community, 1901, One Lyndhurst Tower, No, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong, 2913 7510, info@yogacommunity.org, www.yogacommunity.org

The post The Most Useful Classes For Helpers In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

A Time For Gratitude: Helper Appreciation Month

Marion Déchy — Tue, 05 May 2020 22:00:58 +0000

May is helper appreciation month so here’s how you can thank this integral member of your home.

There are more than 380,000 domestic workers in Hong Kong. That’s 10% of the working population! With little or no affordable child care services in the region, these women (and a few men) make it possible for others to go to work. Sadly though, their work is barely recognised as it happens in our homes, behind closed doors. We tend to forget that our helpers may go through a very emotional time, working long hours and living away from their families. This has been especially true in the last weeks with all the COVID-19 turmoil. It has often meant an additional workload with more members of the employer’s family staying at home. Secondly, helpers are also likely to feel stressed for the health of their own families and also face additional financial pressure to support them as their countries go into lock-down.

So while we should always celebrate and be thankful for the important contribution that domestic workers make to our lives, this year, let’s make even more of an effort this year. Here are some easy ways to express our heartfelt appreciation to our helpers.

Why Is Being Thankful Essential?

This is not a regular working scenario, with fixed office hours and then the option to switch off and head home. With no other refuge to turn to, most domestic workers are deeply offended by negative comments or a firm tone of voice. Often, language barriers lead to miscommunication. Indifference or thinking they are not worthy leaves a bitter taste. For a good balance in your family, you need your domestic worker to stay motivated with a positive attitude. Appreciation is often their biggest reward.

What You Can Do On A Daily Basis

Most helpers are incredibly touched by simple gestures and praise. You can also choose specific moments to reward her, like her birthday, her children’s birthdays or graduation and Christmas. This is also an opportunity to connect with her and have a friendly talk!

The Best Gifts You Can Give Your Domestic Worker

1. Time off

Understandably, all domestic workers miss their children. Giving them the opportunity to go home, at a time when they really need or want to, is priceless for them. If your domestic worker has children in their final year of primary or high school, they will be graduating at the end of March. Buying her tickets home at this specific time would mean the world to her and to her kids!

This year has been different with international travel being suspended because of the coronavirus and your helper may not have had a chance to take annual leave. In fact, with everyone stuck at home, you might find her workload increasing these days. If you are encouraging your helper to stay at home on Sundays and days off, please make sure you respect that it is a holiday and do not give him or her tasks to be completed. When things return to normal, account for the holidays lost and the overtime put in.

2. Cash

It doesn’t always have to be a special occasion, but you could consider giving your helper some money for her children’s birthday. Also, a little extra cash if she works harder than usual (when your family is visiting or if you host big dinner parties).

3. Body check

Domestic workers are always grateful for medical attention and intervention. Good Link Consultants and QHMS are reliable centres to get health checks done. You could also encourage her to get screened for breast and cervical cancer if she is over 40 (most early detection tests are free or subsidised).

4. Cookbook

Two years ago, Uplifters (the online education platform for domestic workers) met with Natalia Morrison, a health consultant here in Hong Kong. She recently published a comprehensive cookbook which she wrote with her domestic worker. If your domestic worker likes cooking, she will love Home Cooking East & West for the variety of recipes and information it contains.

Another cookbook that is popular is A Helping Hand, written in English and Tagalog.

5. The gift of education

Finally, the gift of a training course is the ticket to growth and empowerment, and it benefits your family as well. You can find a multitude of courses whether it is to learn how to cook, to administer first aid, or to understand how to save and prepare for the future. Uplifters offer free money-management and personal growth courses online. They can join via Facebook.

How To Support Your Helper During COVID-19

The current pandemic has upended many lives, not only in Hong Kong but the world over. At times like these, many of us may be feeling the pinch of restricted personal freedom, the lack of privacy while stuck at home, the stifling inability to travel and the worry of job cuts. Unfortunately, these are often realities that our helpers live with on a daily basis. Perhaps because they are used to less freedom than we are (or are more resilient), the helper community in Hong Kong has dealt with this health crisis remarkably well.

Some employers (especially those with elderly parents, very young children or anyone at home whose immunity may be compromised) aren’t allowing helpers to take the day off on public holidays, but send them out on grocery runs. Most helpers are even more worried about falling ill as they have large families back home who are dependent on them. In cases like this, a frank and fair dialogue is necessary and will help reduce resentment. As things inch back to normal, do remember to notice, appreciate and reward your helper for their stalwart support at home through this outbreak (perhaps take your helper out to a restaurant for a nice lunch now that the “not-more-than-four” rule is relaxed!).

You can also support your domestic worker through COVID-19. Uplifters is developing new ad-hoc resources and running a series of Facebook lives related to mental health and financial planning during a pandemic. It is also currently organising a crowdfunding campaign. With as little as $155 (USD$20), you will help one domestic worker have the opportunity to join their supportive online community to help her navigate COVID-19 challenges (including worries about money remittance) and also sponsor the full cost of her online money management and personal growth course at Uplifters.

So this May, don’t forget to show appreciation to your domestic worker. A small thank you goes a long way in building a harmonious home.

If you are interested in getting additional tips on how to create a healthy win-win relationship with your helper, please subscribe to the Uplifters newsletter.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published by Marion Dechy in May 2019 and has been updated by Anita Balagopalan in May 2020.

The post A Time For Gratitude: Helper Appreciation Month appeared first on Sassy Mama.