Resources
Practical, experience-led advice for everyday life with a domestic helper in Hong Kong.
A helper who says she is under black magic is usually in distress, and the belief is the language she has for it. Take it seriously without arguing: settle the children's care today, talk to her privately, get her to a doctor. Some of it resolves. Where it does not, and you no longer trust her with your children, ending the placement gently is the kind answer.
Read articleSay something early, and say it plainly: the work matters to you, and the standard has slipped. Most complacency is fixable once it is named, and resentment grows fastest in silence. Be specific about what better looks like, then give it a few weeks and look again. If it still does not improve and you decide the friction is not worth it, you can give proper notice and end the contract cleanly.
Read articleOnly employees' compensation insurance is legally required when you employ a domestic helper in Hong Kong; everything beyond that is optional cover you choose. In our experience, most employers add comprehensive medical insurance anyway, because day-to-day clinic bills are the employer's responsibility. Read what the policy covers and ask the insurer directly how claims are processed before you buy.
Read articleStay in the room for the first days rather than handing over and leaving — let your child watch you be relaxed with the helper before she takes anything on alone. Keep meals, baths and bedtime exactly as they were, hand over one routine at a time, and expect a bumpy fortnight. A longer interview and real reference checks beforehand matter more than anything you do after she arrives.
Read articleHygiene standards are learned, not assumed, and the stakes rise with a newborn, young children, an elderly parent or daily cooking. Here is how to set clear, kind hygiene routines with your helper: what to provide, what to say, and the specific practices that matter most in each caring scenario.
Read articleSafety first — call 999 if anyone is hurt or in danger, and if it's a criminal matter that's the right number whatever the hour. Then slow down: write down what happened while it's fresh. You can stand her down from duties tonight, but don't dismiss her on the spot and don't move her out. Our office is 10am–7pm; call us before you take any step that changes her employment.
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