(Updated on September 7, 2023)
There are several organizations and government initiatives in Hong Kong that provide free classes or workshops for foreign migrant domestic workers (fdws).
Splash Foundation
Splash offers a learn-to-swim adult course, catering mainly to absolute beginners but also welcoming those with some prior swim experience. While the primary focus is on migrant domestic workers (fdws), they also collaborate with NGOs supporting refugees. The 12-week course prioritizes three key areas: balance and buoyancy, breath control, and calm and controlled movements. Participants are required to bring a swimsuit and goggles, but rashguards, swim shorts, and burkinis made from swimsuit material are also acceptable. Attendance is crucial throughout the free course, and the first class is mandatory for all, without any exceptions. By the end of the course, domestic helpers will gain water safety skills and a basic introduction to freestyle and backstroke techniques.
Website: https://www.splashfoundation.org/en/adult-programme
Andiappan Yoga Community
Andiappan Yoga Community (AYC) is a volunteer-based nonprofit organisation offering free yoga classes for foreign migrant domestic workers (fdws) in the city. Their mission is to break down financial barriers and ensure that the advantages of yoga are available to the community who requires it the most.
Book the class: https://www.yogacommunity.org/
HelperChoice
HelperChoice is an ethical maid agency with a legit license approved by the Labour Department Hong Kong. It aims to facilitate the well-being of foreign domestic workers in Hong Kong with ethical practice. It provides FREE weekend yoga classes for foreign migrant domestic workers. You may follow HelperChoice on social media to stay tuned for the events.
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/helperchoice
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helperchoice_ethical_services/
Enrich HK
In-person financial literacy workshops
The workshops are free for foreign migrant domestic workers (fdws) in Hong Kong. It is 8 hours long and organised on Sundays. This introductory course will help domestic workers understand investment concepts, tools and instruments and how to manage their finances (both income and savings). It will also help domestic workers learn about investment scams and how to avoid falling these traps.
More info: https://enrichhk.org/growing-my-money?workshop=1198
Christian Action
Christian Action is a registered charitable organisation in Hong Kong. It aims to provide each person hope, dignity and self-reliance based on the example of Jesus Christ who aims to serve all people, regardless of age, gender, nationality and religion. Domestic workers may visit their community centre in Kowloon for more free courses info.
Uplifters
Online course: << Money management and mental well-being>>
This online class is 100% free and provides domestic helpers education on money management, personal development and mental well-being. Domestic helpers can conveniently access the online course using their smartphones; no laptop is required. The course is designed to be flexible, allowing domestic helpers to learn at their own pace or during their rest day without the need for in-person meetings
– 3 weeks programme, about 30 mins per day.
The class info: https://uplifters-edu.org/programme/money-management-and-mental-well-being/
Please note that the availability and details of these courses may change from time to time. It’s essential to contact the organizations directly or visit their website for more info.
Why should employers encourage their helper to take classes?
Encouraging domestic helpers to sign up for classes can bring several benefits to both the employer and the helper. Here are some reasons why employers should consider supporting their helpers in pursuing further education and training:
Enhanced Communication: Many foreign migrant domestic helpers (fdhs) come from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Enrolling them in language classes or communication workshops can improve their ability to understand and express themselves, leading to better communication and collaboration within the household.
Increased Job Performance: By participating in relevant training programs, domestic helpers can enhance their job-related skills. For example, courses on cooking, childcare, or elderly care can lead to improved performance in these areas, ultimately benefiting the employer and the household.
Empowerment and Personal Development: Education empowers domestic helpers and enhances their self-esteem. Encouraging your domestic helper to participate in self-development classes can boost their confidence and contribute to their personal growth, making them more motivated and dedicated workers.
Better Understanding of Legal Rights: Some classes may cover topics related to labor rights, employment regulations, and legal protections for domestic workers. By being informed about their rights, helpers can navigate their employment more effectively and address any concerns with greater confidence.
Improved Bond and Trust: Supporting helpers in their educational pursuits demonstrates the employer’s concern for their well-being and professional development. This can help foster a stronger bond and trust between the employer and the helper, leading to a more harmonious working relationship.
Access to New Perspectives: Exposure to new knowledge and experiences through educational courses or workshops can help enrich the domestic helper’s understanding of various topics and cultures. This can lead to more meaningful interactions and exchanges within the household.
Long-Term Benefits: Investing in the education and skills development of domestic helpers can lead to long-term benefits for the employer. Skilled and motivated helpers are more likely to stay committed to their jobs, reducing turnover and the associated recruitment costs.
Social Responsibility: Supporting the education of domestic helpers is a form of social responsibility. It can contribute to empowering an essential workforce segment and help bridge the educational gap for marginalized individuals.
By encouraging their helpers to sign up for classes and supporting their educational endeavors, employers create a positive and nurturing work environment that can lead to mutual growth and an improved quality of life for both parties involved.
Will these classes affect your helper’s job performance?
As an employer, you can support your domestic helper in taking classes without significantly affecting their work by following these steps:
Open Communication: Start by having an open and supportive conversation with your helper about their interest in taking classes. Understand their educational goals and discuss how it can benefit both of you in the long run.
Flexible Work Schedule: If possible, consider offering a more flexible work schedule that accommodates your helper’s class timings. This may involve adjusting their daily or weekly hours to ensure they have enough time for their studies.
Rest Day and Time Off: Ensure that your helper gets their entitled rest day and time off. Use this time to allow them to attend classes, study, or complete assignments without interruptions.
Encourage Online Learning: If attending physical classes is challenging, encourage your domestic helper to explore online learning options. Many reputable educational platforms offer flexible courses that can be taken from home.
Create a Study Space: If your living arrangements permit, designate a quiet and comfortable study space for your helper to focus on their studies during their free time or rest day.
Plan Household Chores: Collaborate with your helper to create a household chore schedule that allows them to manage their workload efficiently. Prioritize essential tasks and delegate responsibilities accordingly.
Consider Job-Related Courses: If your helper’s studies align with their job responsibilities (e.g., cooking classes, first aid training or elderly care courses), it can lead to improved job performance and mutual benefits.
Financial Support: Depending on your resources and the cost of the courses, you might consider offering financial assistance or sharing the cost of the classes to demonstrate your support for their educational goals.
Encourage Time Management: Help your helper develop effective time management skills. This includes setting realistic study goals, creating study schedules, and avoiding procrastination.
Recognize Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your helper’s academic achievements. Positive reinforcement can motivate them to continue balancing work and studies effectively.
Be Flexible during Exam Periods: During exam periods, your helper might need extra time to study. Be understanding and consider granting some flexibility to accommodate their preparation needs.
Access to Educational Resources: If you have access to educational resources like books or online materials, share them with your domestic worker to support their learning journey and self-development.
Remember that supporting your helper’s education can lead to increased job satisfaction, loyalty, and improved skills, benefiting both your family and their personal development. A well-educated and motivated helper is an asset to any family, so investing in their growth can yield positive outcomes for all involved.
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Contract And Visa Renewal For Filipino Maids | HelperChoice | An Ethical Maid Agency In Hong Kong
About HelperChoice
HelperChoice is a reputable maid agency that holds a valid license approved by the Labour Department Hong Kong. The agency offers an online platform for direct hiring of domestic helpers and facilitates visa processing service specifically for Filipino maids. With a vast network, HelperChoice has successfully served over 75,000 employers in Hong Kong and Singapore, providing employers access to a pool of more than 20,000 domestic worker profiles. The agency maintains collaborative partnerships with local NGOs, including Enrich Hong Kong, Help For Domestic Workers, and PathFinders, organizing workshops and webinars to support the welling being and the employment rights of foreign migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong.
Contract And Visa Renewal For Filipino Maids
Employers are required to renew the employment contract and visa for foreign domestic helpers every two years at the Immigration Department and the respective Consulate. If you need assistance with processing the contract and visa for a Filipino maid, you can reach out to the HelperChoice team via Whatsapp. Normally, the visa renewal takes around two weeks to complete. Most visa processing packages include a mandatory two-year insurance coverage for domestic workers. For more info, please contact us via Whatsapp.
See also: Visa Processing Service For Filipino Domestic Workers