Bring cheer to your domestic worker this Christmas

While many of us are counting down the days to the end of the year – to celebrate Christmas with our loved ones, or to enjoy a welldeserved break that includes a getaway somewhere beautiful, many others, like domestic workers, aren’t that lucky.

In fact, the end of the year is a trying time for low-income earners in general, and domestic workers in particular. This is partly due to their employers going away on holiday, which means they are not needed for work and many go unpaid, but also because they have all the same pressures and expenses associated with the end of a year and the start of a new year on often meagre pay.

The cost of living crisis we’re all feeling in our pockets further exacerbates their plight. Domestic workers have to pay the same price for food, transport, electricity and more, as the rest of us, and if those with resources and support networks are struggling, imagine how those without are feeling.

The fifth annual SweepSouth Report of Pay and Working Conditions for Domestic Work across Africa, released earlier this year, paints a grim picture of the lives of domestic workers.

The majority are female, sole breadwinners and single caregivers while supporting multiple dependents. Domestic work is characterised by instability and often workers earn no more than a minimum wage.

Minimum wage is R23.19 an hour, or R3,710.40 a month (based on 160 working hours). That’s all. This season let’s consider taking some active steps to ease the burden in a practical way.

If you’re in the position to, pay a bonus at the end of the year. Do this as a token of appreciation for her contribution to the running of your home throughout the year. Give whatever you can afford, but also say thank you – either in person or in a short note.

Any extra money can help pay off debt – many domestic workers are in debt and feel hopeless about the possibility of repaying it.

The SweepSouth report revealed that many domestic workers are sacrificing items like food to stretch their earnings, which strongly suggests a falling quality of life.

As such, a gift package with pantry staples could go a long way in easing some of the burden.

You may also want to include treats like biscuits, sweets for children, a scented body wash or even a warm blanket. Even better, ask what her needs are and gift accordingly.

The best way to help your domestic worker is always to pay her more, aiming for at least a living wage rather than minimum wage. Domestic workers on the SweepSouth platform earn more than minimum wage, and there is an option to contribute more on a regular basis or as a once-off tip.

Consider the work your domestic worker does and decide on a fair wage based on the value it brings to your home and life.

Beyond financial support, consider how else you may be a good employer. The SweepSouth report also noted that there is declining mental health among domestic workers in SA, partly due to the dire economic fallout from the pandemic.

There are many free counselling services in SA, including the SA Depression & Anxiety Group (Sadag) and Lifeline.