The H.E.L.P. agency is a consulting firm whose core value is to take an ethical approach to Domestic Helpers. It means that, through our services, we strive to make the Domestic Helper happy and efficient in her work. Therefore, we suggest that each party to a Domestic Helper arrangement engage in a commitment of mutual respect as the best fertiliser for a harmonious and sustainable relationship.

The Domestic Helper’s commitment

Deep and sincere respect for the employer :

• absolute confidentiality in all matters,
• respect of the employer’s privacy and intimacy,
• diligence in following all instructions, punctuality, and
• honesty are some of the core values we teach employees we have been asked to train.

The Employer’s commitment

Provide Domestic Helper with fair working conditions compliant with International Labour Organization conventions

• Days off every Sunday and every public holiday, to get the basic rest to which any worker is entitled, to meet with friends and relatives and tighten community bonds, to give her the opportunity to upgrade her skills, and also to provide the employer some family intimacy.
• Decent housing comprising separate room with window, fan, private bathroom, and toiletries.
• Reasonable working hours with regular breaks and sufficient rest.
• Paid leave and minimum one-week notice to terminate the contract are advisable.

The H.E.L.P. agency’s commitment

• We refuse the destructive spiral of debts imposed on most Domestic Helpers seeking a new employer because of the heavy fees they must pay to agencies for their transfer (up to several months of salary). We are convinced that a different economic model is needed that does not financially drain the Domestic Helper. We ask for no money or compensation to the Domestic Helpers who go through our services.

 

• We strongly encourage the Domestic Helper to actively prepare for her post-Singapore future through education and savings.  The possibility of becoming financially independent is an incentive to do a good job.

 

• We develop privileged links with NGOs that provide support to Domestic Helpers through education (www.aidha.org, www.home.org.sg ), health (www.healthserve.org.sg) , or advocacy and counseling (www.twc2.org.sg, www.unifem.org.sg).