6 Things to Consider when Hiring a Foreign Domestic Helper
Feeling lost and don’t know where to start? Fear not for we’ll show you what you need to know about hiring a foreign domestic helper in Singapore. A lot of people may think that hiring a foreign domestic helper may be a no brainer but look out for these potential pitfalls.
1. Which Helper is suitable?
Helpers come with different experiences, skills, ethics and communication skills. Are you looking for an independent FDW whom you can rely on for childcare, elderly care, meal preparation or housekeeping?
If the answer is yes. You may want to look for someone who has worked for at least 2 years in Malaysia, Hong Kong, the Middle East or Singapore. These working experiences helped domestic helpers understand the demanding needs of employers and the ability to work independently without too much guidance.
If the answer is no. You prefer to have a foreign domestic helper whom you are willing to train and guide towards your way of doing things. A fresh helper with home country experience will be more suitable for you. Bear in mind that you must be patient and help her along the way. By working together and helping each other, you create mutual trust and understanding.
However, not all foreign domestic helpers with home-country experience need much guidance. This also depends on what type of duties they did during their previous employment.
It is important to interview the foreign domestic helper through video calls at a bare minimum. Make sure you observe her reaction, appearance, communication style, emotional expression, etc. Through interviews and observations, you make a better judgment call to find a helper that matches your requirements.
Click here to check out our foreign domestic helpers database and call us to arrange for a interview at the convenience from your home.
2. What is Singapore Foreign Domestic Helper or Maid salary?
Hey, budget is important, right? You can save some money by finding a helper who comes from a place with a lower pay rate, who is still learning the ropes, or who is flexible about their pay.
Click here to read more about Foreign Domestic helper salary.
3. Should you engage a maid agency?
Though there are benefits to using a maid agency to hire a foreign domestic helper or maid, it can also be risky, costly, and restricting. Ensure that the maid agency you engage with has a legal license with MOM, accreditation with the embassy and is a member of the Association of Employment Agencies (Singapore).
Find a maid agency that can provide you with quality and affordable services. They can check the helper’s family background and credentials. Maid agency can also offer you support and assistance.
They should also allow you to interview the domestic helper through video call, physically or personally if possible.
The maid agency should have a large and diverse pool of helpers with a fast and easy process. Remember to check out the satisfaction guarantee and the replacement policy too.
4. What is the cost?
You would want to hire a helper who can fit your budget and offer you value for money. Click here to read more about the cost needed to hiring a foreign domestic helper in Singapore.
5. Any government grant or financial assistance from Singapore Government?
Hey, the Singapore government cares about the needs of care recipients. They appreciate the hard work of caregivers and offer financial support for lower-income families to make caregiving more affordable.
Home Caregiving Grant Singapore (HCG)
You could get up to either $250 or $400 every month if you qualify for this scheme. To be eligible for HCG, the care recipient must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a Singapore Citizen; or
- Permanent Resident (with a parent, child or spouse who is a Singapore Citizen)
- Lives in Singapore HDB flat
- Not in a residential long-term care institution such as nursing home.
- Requires Assistance with at least three of the six activities of daily living.
- Six activities are feeding, dressing, toileting, washing, walking or moving around, transferrring from bed to chair and vice verse
- Household monthly income per person less than $2800
6. Your Family’s Readiness
Bringing a domestic helper into your household is a significant change, as it involves welcoming a new person into your home and sharing your personal space and time. It’s a good idea to discuss this with your family members to understand their thoughts and feelings. You’ll also need to prepare your home, arrange accommodations, and invest time in building a trusting and positive relationship with the helper.
Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore can greatly benefit your family, providing valuable support and assistance. However, it’s also a decision that requires careful planning and consideration. By following these tips, you’ll be better equipped to find a domestic helper who fits your family’s needs and budget.