A domestic worker that cooks: Fair or unacceptable?
Usually, a domestic worker is employed to ensure that a home is kept tidy. But when the duties include cooking for the family, does it become an unacceptable or a fair practice?
In addition to the typical housekeeper duties you can expect a housekeeper to complete, you may have a list of other things you’d like them to manage as well. This will be different for every family depending on their needs.
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But if cooking is added to this list, does it become an unfair expectation?
A KZN working woman has taken to our WhatsApp line after she was called out by her fellow colleague for admitting that her maid cooks for her family.
Listen to the voice note we received below:
For me, it boils down to what’s been discussed and what’s comfortable for both parties.
If you have an open line of communication with your helper, and there are specific things that you don’t have the time to get to every week to simplify, then I think it’s okay to chat with him or her about this and see if it’s something can be done.
My helper, who I regard as my lifesaver, has been with me since 2013. Her duties are to ensure my place is kept clean and tidy. Cooking as never been added to her list of responsibilities as I normally take care of lunch or dinner myself. However, I think it would be different if I had a family living at home.
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Life is tough and busy. Most of us are putting in long hours at the office, and at times its natural to forget about dinner.
But it begs the question: Is it wrong to expect your helper to cook for your family?
What do you think?