The Foreign Domestic Helper Scene in Hong Kong
No matter which way you slice it, working as a foreign domestic helper in Hong Kong is not an easy job.
Employing a foreign domestic worker has become increasingly common in Hong Kong, particularly among those with young children or elderly family members. According to government statistics, there were 330,000 domestic workers in Hong Kong in 2014, compared with 285,681 in 2010.
The growing FDW economy has the potential to benefit both parties: the extra help around the house enables families to earn double incomes and advance socioeconomically, while FDW can earn a better living to support their families back home.
Yet shady loan lenders, manipulative agencies, difficult living conditions and abusive employers can lead to dodgy situations. We spoke with four domestic helpers about their path through Hong Kong, lessons learned and healthy work relationships.
Virginia Ballon
Moving from her hometown in Mindanao in the Philippines, Virginia left behind her 8-year-old son to work in Hong Kong. Claire Glover is her second employer in Hong Kong.
I’m from a simple family. I have six siblings. My parents were farmers. I was married, separated with one kid. I’m supporting my son. I came to Hong Kong in 2008, and had an employer in Sai Ying Pun. I worked with them for one year and five months, and they terminated my contract. It wasn’t a happy time. My life now is very different.