A Safe Haven for Migrant Domestic Workers in the UK By Marilou

There are places you join, and then there are places that feel like home. For me, The Voice of Domestic Workers is not simply an organisation, it is a haven. In a world where many domestic workers feel unseen, unheard, and alone, this community stands as a quiet but powerful reminder that we matter. It brings together women and men from different races, cultures, and backgrounds, yet within its walls, we are united by compassion and understanding. What began as a small foundation built on trust and shared stories has grown into something far greater than we ever imagined. It has become a family.

There are places you join, and then there are places that feel like home. For me, The Voice of Domestic Workers is not simply an organisation, it is a haven. In a world where many domestic workers move quietly behind closed doors, often unseen and unheard, this community stands as a gentle but powerful reminder that our lives and stories matter. Many of us arrived carrying heavy burdens, homesickness, fear, uncertainty, and in some cases, deep pain. Yet within this space, we found something rare, understanding without judgment. Here, women and men from different races, cultures, and faiths sit side by side, united not by where we come from, but by shared courage and compassion.

What began as a small group built on trust and shared experiences has grown into something far greater than we imagined. It has become a family in the truest sense of the word. A family that celebrates birthdays and small victories. A family that listens when someone needs to cry. A family that refuses to let any member face hardship alone.

Inside this family, unity is not just spoken, it is felt in every embrace, every shared meal, every word of encouragement. When one of us struggles, others step forward without hesitation. The organisation reaches out to domestic workers who are in crisis, especially those who have experienced abuse, exploitation, or violence. It offers guidance, practical support, and safe spaces. But more than that, it offers hope. Hope that healing is possible. Hope that dignity can be restored. Hope that justice is worth fighting for.

I hold deep respect and gratitude for our founder, Marisa Begonia. Her leadership is not distant or formal, it is personal and heartfelt. She sees each member not as a number, but as a human being with dreams and potential. Every Sunday, we gather not only to share food from our different cultures, but to share knowledge and growth. Through free IT and English classes, we gain skills that build confidence and open new doors. These lessons are more than practical training, they are reminders that we are capable, intelligent, and deserving of opportunity.

And in between the lessons and meetings, there is laughter. There are jokes that echo across the room. There are stories told with both tears and smiles. In those simple moments, we are reminded that even after hardship, joy is still possible.

Within this community, our once “small” voices are no longer small. They are heard. They are valued. They carry strength. Together, our voices become a chorus calling for fairness, protection, and respect for all domestic workers.

I love The Voice of Domestic Workers because it has given me something I once thought I had lost hope. It has made me feel protected, supported, and secure. It has shown me that I am not alone in my journey. With the strength of this organisation behind us, I truly believe that every member has the chance to succeed, not only in work, but in life.

Here, we do not just survive difficult circumstances. Here, we rediscover our dignity. Here, we rebuild our confidence. Here, we grow.

I hold deep respect and gratitude for our founder, Marisa Begonia. Her leadership is rooted in care and genuine concern for every member. Every Sunday, we gather not only to share food but to share knowledge. Free IT and English classes help us grow in confidence and skill. These lessons are more than education, they are stepping stones toward independence and self-belief. And in between the learning, there is laughter. There are stories, smiles, and moments of joy that remind us we are not alone.

Within this community, we have found a place where our small voices are no longer small. They are heard. They are valued. They carry weight. I love The Voice of Domestic Workers because it has given me hope. It has made me feel protected, supported, and secure. With the strength of this organisation behind us, I truly believe that every member has the chance to succeed, not just in work, but in life. Here, we do not just survive. We grow.

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Migrant domestic workers who have fled abusive employment urgently need your help. They’ve left behind exploitation and are taking brave steps toward safety—but they need support for basic needs like shelter, food, clothing, and counseling.

 "With your donation, we can provide immediate relief and a pathway to rebuilding lives in dignity and safety."

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us provide essentials, temporary housing, job training, and emotional support. Together, we can offer a lifeline to those starting over.

Donate today to make an impact and be a part of their journey to freedom, recovery, and empowerment.

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