Support Baroness Hamwee’s Amendment: Restore Rights for Migrant Domestic Workers
- thevoiceofdomesticworkers
- 6 days ago
- 1 min read
The Overseas Domestic Workers Coalition calls on the public and UK Parliament to support Baroness Hamwee’s Amendment 44 to the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill. This vital amendment seeks to reinstate the original Overseas Domestic Worker (ODW) visa, which once offered essential protections and freedom to thousands of migrant domestic workers.
DOWNLOAD BRIEFING REPORT HERE
The amendment proposes restoring key rights, including the ability to change employers without restriction, renew visas annually, and apply for family reunification — rights that were removed in 2012. These protections not only safeguarded workers from exploitation but also helped prevent human trafficking and modern slavery.
Evidence presented in the Overseas Domestic Workers Coalition Briefing Report (November 2025) shows that after the 2012 visa reforms, reported cases of abuse and exploitation have increased dramatically. Many domestic workers continue to suffer under conditions of fear and dependency, unable to leave abusive employers without losing their immigration status.
Baroness Hamwee, supported by Baroness Kennedy of The Shaws and Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle, has spoken passionately in the House of Lords about the urgent need for justice and dignity for domestic workers. As Baroness Kennedy stated, “This amendment is the humane and appropriate response to the appalling situation in which some domestic workers find themselves.”
Now is the time for Parliament to act. Reinstating the original ODW visa would restore fairness, accountability, and safety to thousands of workers who contribute to UK households and communities every day.
Read and download the full briefing report here:
Join us in calling for change — support Baroness Hamwee’s amendment and stand for human rights, justice, and equality.
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