Beyond the Hostile Environment: A New Vision for Migrant Domestic Workers

A celebration of migrant domestic workers’ achievements, and a look forward with Future Voices Revolution

Migrant domestic workers are one of the most vulnerable groups of workers in the UK. Join members from The Voice of Domestic Workers at this inspiring event, alongside Alison Spencer-Scragg (Director of Equalities and National Officer for Women, Unite) and Simon Israel (Broadcaster, Channel 4 News) to discuss the future of this community’s rights.

The removal of migrant domestic worker rights under the Overseas Domestic Worker visa in 2012 left migrant workers unprotected, powerless and in severely exploitative work conditions. Given the current context, it has never been more important to hear directly from migrant domestic workers in their own words and in their own ways. This event, hosted in collaboration with The Voice of Domestic Workers and the Department of Journalism at City St George’s, seeks to centre these voices and advocate for change.

Join us at this event celebrating members of The Voice of Domestic Workers’ Future Voices Revolution training programme through spoken word and song, a panel discussion with allies and friends in the sector, and a catered reception to continue the conversation.

Speakers: 

• Mimi Jalmasco, Deputy Director, The Voice of Domestic Workers
• Grace Nine, Future Voices Spokesperson, The Voice of Domestic Workers
• Alison Spencer-Scragg, Director of Equalities and National Officer for Women, Unite
• Simon Israel, Broadcaster, Channel 4 News
• Future Voices Revolution Spokespeople: Alzua, Carol, Christina, Christine Joy, Dannah, Fawzia, Marigold, Mary Queen, Mercy, Vangie, Rose Ann, Ritchel
• Hina Bokhari OBE

About The Voice of Domestic Workers

The Voice of Domestic Workers is a self-led support network, education group and campaign organisation calling for justice and rights for Britain’s 22,000 migrant domestic workers. The organisation provides educational and community activities for domestic workers, employment advice, and support for domestic workers leaving abusive employers. Their work seeks to end discrimination and protect migrant domestic workers living in the UK by providing or assisting in the provision of education, training, healthcare and legal advice.

About Future Voices Revolution 

The event marks the culmination of Future Voices Revolution, a unique training programme run by the Voice of Domestic Workers building an empowered network of public spokespeople ready to advocate for migrant domestic workers’ rights powerfully and confidently. Over the last six months, the programme’s spokespeople have received training on campaigning, influencing and advocacy from allies in the sector, met with MPs and union leaders, and gained knowledge, experience and confidence in using their personal stories to effect policy change.