While the headlines of unfair maid treatment dominate the news, most maids are treated very fairly (or well you can say) in Singapore.
The role of the media in highlighting cases of unfair maid treatment does give Singapore employers a worse reputation.
Despite the government’s best efforts, the law is unable to fully protect what happens behind closed doors. 🧑⚖️
Most employers treat their domestic workers with respect and dignity, and there is a minority that takes advantage of their stronger position.
Understanding The Rights Of Domestic Helpers In Singapore
Employers must understand their responsibilities and obligations towards their domestic workers.
The government provides guidelines on how to hire and manage a domestic helper, emphasizing the importance of fair treatment.
Ill-treatment of domestic workers, including physical or sexual abuse, is a serious offence in Singapore.
The Ministry of Manpower also considers mental or emotional abuse as ill-treatment. 😷
If a domestic worker is not paid, overworked, or not provided with enough food, the ministry offers ways for the helper or others to report such issues.
Employers must also comply with work permit conditions, which include providing a safe working environment and not deploying helpers to work for someone else or perform non-domestic chores.
Are Maids Entitled To Public Holidays In Singapore
Source: Pexels
No, they do not.
Foreign domestic workers are not covered by the Employment Act.
The terms and conditions of their employment will be according to your employment contract.
That being said, you can offer them paid public holidays to show your appreciation. 😁
Do Maids Get Off Days In Singapore?
Yes, maids are entitled to one weekly off day.
The decision of which day during the week, for the off day, is mutually agreed upon with the employer in the contract. ☀️
Maids have complete freedom on how to spend the rest day, except moonlighting.
(💡Find out more here💡)
Signs of Maid Abuse
Source: Pexels
Maid abuse is when helpers are treated unfairly in order to benefit from their work.
Some examples and signs of exploitation include verbal abuse, overwork, food issues, salary issues, physical abuse, and verbal abuse.
Verbal abuse can take the form of threats, insults, or vulgarities being hurled at them constantly, while overwork can involve forcing them to work for long hours without a break.
Food issues can include not being given enough food, constant hunger and rejection of requests for more food.
What To Do When You Spot A Maid Abuse Case?
If you suspect that an FDW is being abused or ill-treated, you can report it to the Police.
Police will assess all complaints of abuse and initiate criminal investigations if an offence is disclosed. 👮
If convicted, employers face severe penalties under the law and may be permanently banned from employing another FDW by MOM.
You can also call the FDW Helpline (1800 339 5505) to speak to an MOM officer.
How To Support A Victim Of FDW Abuse?
Source: Pexels
Family members in their home country can report cases of violence towards foreign domestic workers to their local maid agency and make a report to MOM through their FDW Helpline (1800 339 5505).
Friends and witnesses can provide the victim with a listening ear if they appear to be willing to share. Try and understand the situation they are facing.
Encourage the victim to seek medical attention and remind them to gather evidence should they want to pursue a legal charge.
However, it’s important that you do not make decisions for them/force them to make decisions.
Let the victim know of the available options and how they can seek help and legal advice. 🔊
Many organisations are providing free legal aid for foreign domestic workers who will need legal advice.
These organisations include HOME Legal Clinic, Centre for Domestic Employees Legal Clinic, and FAST.
Treat Your Maids Well For A Harmonious Household
Source: Pexels
Open communication is key to creating a good working relationship and having a motivated domestic worker.
It’s also essential to define working hours and duties to prevent the live-in arrangement from being taken advantage of. 💬
Taking care of a maid’s well-being is key to work performance.
Domestic helpers are more motivated to work when they are appreciated in the household.
Related to Maids Singapore:
