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Published on 13 Mar 2025 by Chise C.
Ministry of Helpers strongly advocates for transparency between employers and domestic helpers. A successful working relationship is built on trust, honesty, and clear communication. Unfortunately, we recently came across an incident where a lack of honesty led to a difficult and painful experience for both the employer and the helper involved.
The incident
A domestic helper was hired by a family under the impression that she would be caring for young children in a typical household environment. However, what the employer failed to disclose was that one of the children had autism and exhibited aggressive behaviors.
Within days of starting work, the helper found herself in an overwhelming situation. The child frequently bit and scratched her, leaving her not only physically hurt but emotionally distressed as well. The helper tried her best to manage the situation, but without proper training, preparation, or even a warning about the child’s condition, she felt unsafe and unable to perform her duties effectively.
Despite her commitment to the job, she ultimately made the difficult decision to leave after just two weeks.
The consequences
When employers are not upfront about their household situation, it can lead to serious consequences:
- Helper’s safety and well-being – Without proper knowledge and training, helpers may struggle to provide the necessary care and may suffer both physically and emotionally.
- Child’s welfare – A helper who is unprepared may not be able to properly care for a child with special needs, which can impact the child’s development and safety.
- Employer’s trust and reputation – Dishonesty damages trust, and finding a replacement helper can be even more challenging after such incidents.
- Time and financial loss – When a helper leaves shortly after starting, employers must go through the hiring process again, incurring additional costs and delays.
How employers can prevent such issues
To ensure a smooth and successful working relationship with a domestic helper, we urge employers to:
- Be transparent – Clearly communicate any special needs or medical conditions within the household.
- Provide proper training – If caring for a child with autism, employers should offer guidance and resources to help the helper understand how to manage behavior effectively.
- Set realistic expectations – Not all helpers have experience with special needs care. If specific skills are required, hiring a helper with the appropriate background is essential.
- Seek professional support – Consider professional training or therapy services to assist both the helper and the child in adjusting to their caregiving dynamic.
Ministry of Helpers emphasises the importance of honesty in the hiring process. We encourage both employers and domestic helpers to communicate openly about expectations, challenges, and necessary preparations for a harmonious working relationship.
If you are an employer looking to hire a domestic helper, we strongly advise full disclosure of your household’s needs. This ensures a better match and a healthier, more productive working environment for everyone involved.
For helpers, if you ever feel uncomfortable due to undisclosed job conditions, know that you have the right to voice your concerns and seek support.
Honesty is the foundation of trust. When both employers and helpers enter into an agreement with full transparency, it leads to a better experience for all. Let’s work together to create a fair, safe, and positive working environment for domestic helpers in Singapore.
Better connections make better homes
Ministry of Helpers strongly advocates for transparency between employers and domestic helpers. A successful working relationship is built on trust, honesty, and clear communication. Unfortunately, we recently came across an incident where a lack of honesty led to a difficult and painful experience for both the employer and the helper involved.
The incident
A domestic helper was hired by a family under the impression that she would be caring for young children in a typical household environment. However, what the employer failed to disclose was that one of the children had autism and exhibited aggressive behaviors.
Within days of starting work, the helper found herself in an overwhelming situation. The child frequently bit and scratched her, leaving her not only physically hurt but emotionally distressed as well. The helper tried her best to manage the situation, but without proper training, preparation, or even a warning about the child’s condition, she felt unsafe and unable to perform her duties effectively.
Despite her commitment to the job, she ultimately made the difficult decision to leave after just two weeks.
The consequences
When employers are not upfront about their household situation, it can lead to serious consequences:
- Helper’s safety and well-being – Without proper knowledge and training, helpers may struggle to provide the necessary care and may suffer both physically and emotionally.
- Child’s welfare – A helper who is unprepared may not be able to properly care for a child with special needs, which can impact the child’s development and safety.
- Employer’s trust and reputation – Dishonesty damages trust, and finding a replacement helper can be even more challenging after such incidents.
- Time and financial loss – When a helper leaves shortly after starting, employers must go through the hiring process again, incurring additional costs and delays.
How employers can prevent such issues
To ensure a smooth and successful working relationship with a domestic helper, we urge employers to:
- Be transparent – Clearly communicate any special needs or medical conditions within the household.
- Provide proper training – If caring for a child with autism, employers should offer guidance and resources to help the helper understand how to manage behavior effectively.
- Set realistic expectations – Not all helpers have experience with special needs care. If specific skills are required, hiring a helper with the appropriate background is essential.
- Seek professional support – Consider professional training or therapy services to assist both the helper and the child in adjusting to their caregiving dynamic.
Ministry of Helpers emphasises the importance of honesty in the hiring process. We encourage both employers and domestic helpers to communicate openly about expectations, challenges, and necessary preparations for a harmonious working relationship.
If you are an employer looking to hire a domestic helper, we strongly advise full disclosure of your household’s needs. This ensures a better match and a healthier, more productive working environment for everyone involved.
For helpers, if you ever feel uncomfortable due to undisclosed job conditions, know that you have the right to voice your concerns and seek support.
Honesty is the foundation of trust. When both employers and helpers enter into an agreement with full transparency, it leads to a better experience for all. Let’s work together to create a fair, safe, and positive working environment for domestic helpers in Singapore.
Better connections make better homes