Abusive employers of domestic helpers are rare, but unfortunately they do exist, making girls’ lives hell. Christian Action is publicising the case of Siti from Indonesia:
“Siti is an Indonesian in her early 20s, who worked for a couple with two children,” the charity writes on its website. “The first indignity she suffered was not being given a bed and being forced to sleep on the floor. Having random objects thrown into her face became a weekly occurrence. When the abuse escalated to physical violence, Siti began to fear for her life…” She was frightened and helpless.
Siti’s sister recommended her to Christian Action, which provides migrant workers in trouble with shelter, counselling and legal services. “Siti was able to leave her abusive employers’ home before she was seriously harmed. When Siti arrived at CA’s shelter she was traumatised.” Counselling and feeling safe brought her out of her shell and she slowly began interacting with other people at the shelter. Gradually optimism replaced her bitter disappointment and hopelessness.
“Now Siti has returned to Indonesia, while Christina Action pursues her case with the police and the legal authorities.”
Christian Action is an admirable charity providing support for troubled domestic helpers and other migrant workers as well as operating homes and services for under-privileged people in Qinghai, China. A similar charity, to which anyone who knows of a helper in trouble should refer them, is the Mission for Migrant Workers, an offshoot of St John’s Cathedral.
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