New in Town: Johannesburg
Employing Domestic Workers
Episode notes
In this episode, podcast host Hannah Pirnie interviews the founders of the IZWI Domestic Workers Alliance to discuss employing domestic workers in South Africa. They cover various aspects such as communication, power dynamics, and the importance of written contracts. They also provide advice for employers, including tips on hiring, probation periods, and signing contracts. The conversation delves into topics like minimum wage, living wage, and additional benefits. They discuss healthcare options, leave for clinic visits, and safety precautions. The episode concludes with a discussion on supporting domestic workers after employment ends
Takeaways:
- Establish clear communication and boundaries with domestic workers to maintain a professional relationship.
- Ensure that written contracts are in place to protect both employers and domestic workers.
- Pay a living wage to domestic workers and provide additional benefits such as the 13th month pay.
- Support domestic workers' social protections, such as registering for UIF and considering pension contributions
Made by: New in Town:Johannesburg
Hosts: Hannah Pirnie and Sarah Passmore
Editor: Sarah Passmore
Website: www.movingtosouthafrica.com
Instagram: newintown.podcast
With special thanks to Maggie Mthombeni and Amy Tekié from IZWI Domestic Helpers Alliance
https://www.izwi.org.za/
In this episode, podcast host Hannah Pirnie interviews the founders of the IZWI Domestic Workers Alliance to discuss employing domestic workers in South Africa. They cover various aspects such as communication, power dynamics, and the importance of written contracts. They also provide advice for employers, including tips on hiring, probation periods, and signing contracts. The conversation delves into topics like minimum wage, living wage, and additional benefits. They discuss healthcare options, leave for clinic visits, and safety precautions. The episode concludes with a discussion on supporting domestic workers after employment ends
Takeaways:
- Establish clear communication and boundaries with domestic workers to maintain a professional relationship.
- Ensure that written contracts are in place to protect both employers and domestic workers.
- Pay a living wage to domestic workers and provide additional benefits such as the 13th month pay.
- Support domestic workers' social protections, such as registering for UIF and considering pension contributions
Made by: New in Town:Johannesburg
Hosts: Hannah Pirnie and Sarah Passmore
Editor: Sarah Passmore
Website: www.movingtosouthafrica.com
Instagram: newintown.podcast
With special thanks to Maggie Mthombeni and Amy Tekié from IZWI Domestic Helpers Alliance
Find the Izwi employment guide here: https://www.izwi.org.za/
Find the South African living wage guide here:
https://living-wage.co.za/