Domestic workers and mobile phones

By Step Up

Channel NewsAsia's "Talking Point" touched on a very current albeit sensitive topic: "Helpers and Mobile Phones: Is there a Win-Win Solution?".

The news program “Talking Point” showed that many domestic workers are accessing social media apps on their smartphones during working hours, uploading seemingly harmless song and dance meme videos.

"Should I allow my maid to use a handphone?"

The employers interviewed on “Talking Point” discussed imposing rules on the use of smartphones, such as no using of phones in the day or until all chores are done. The most extreme view came from an employment agency that hires only domestic workers who are willing to sign a no-handphone agreement with their new employers.

Many want to impose restrictions on the use of mobile phones as they do not want their personal details revealed unwittingly on social media by their domestic workers.

However, domestic workers leave their home countries and do not see their families for years. It’s only fair for them to communicate with their families on a daily basis. “Talking Point” highlighted that domestic workers are not children, and if our own employers/companies do not impose handphone usage rules at work, why should we do so with our domestic workers?

How to manage domestic helper's smartphone use

In this day and age, many of us can’t live without our phones. This is a universal issue that requires education on the advantages and disadvantages of smartphones and social media. For worried employers, we have created many videos to educate domestic workers in Tagalog and Bahasa. The topics include:

Are you addicted to your mobile phone?
3 things you should never post on social media.
Social media guidelines.
What is an Internet love scam?
Do not believe everything you see or read on the Internet.
Be responsible on social media.

Maid training courses

Employ the use of Step Up to educate your domestic worker on the use of social media and also share your comfort level of what can be shown on it, if it relates to your home and family members.

Log in to view free content in English or subscribe to choose the videos in your domestic worker’s language. Click here to sign up now.

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