Respect, Equality & Safety in Domestic Work
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3 Interactive Workshops
Online Awarness Campaign
Educational Materials
Collection of 100 + Worker testimonials
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Target Groups
Domestic Workers
Public Institutions and Authorities
General public in Romandie
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Over the years, we’ve been approached by both domestic workers and employers facing serious challenges in their working relationships. Some workers have confided in us about experiencing violence, discrimination, or verbal aggression. In these cases, we’ve helped by providing guidance and connecting them with the appropriate authorities or partner associations.
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At the same time, we’ve also listened to employers, some of whom have shared that they or their children have felt blackmailed, manipulated, or even threatened by a domestic worker.
These experiences highlight the complexity of domestic work, where trust and close daily contact are essential, but can easily become a source of conflict when boundaries or communication break down.
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Why This Project Matters
Too many situations escalate unnecessarily. We believe many of these issues could be avoided if both parties had the right tools, support, and understanding from the start. That’s why we are focusing on this project in 2025.
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Our Core Beliefs
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Well-informed workers and employers prevent conflict.
Clear communication and well-drafted contracts before employment begins can address expectations and prevent misunderstandings later on.
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The nature of domestic work can blur personal and professional lines.
Many people in this field, on both sides, lack the communication skills needed to navigate difficult conversations or set respectful boundaries. We aim to change this through interactive workshops that empower both workers and employers.
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People don’t always know where to turn when things go wrong.
Whether it’s a nanny feeling isolated and mistreated, or a parent feeling unsafe or unsure of their rights, many individuals, especially newcomers to Switzerland, lack the knowledge or support networks to resolve these issues constructively.
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Through this project, we aim to reduce tensions, prevent violence, and promote a culture of respect and equality. We will do this by offering tailored workshops, launching a bilingual awareness campaign, and distributing clear, practical resources for both domestic workers and employers.
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Together, we can build safer, healthier working relationshipsbased on mutual respect, not fear.
The Survey
To ensure this project reflects the real needs of domestic workers, we are launching a survey.
Our aim is to better understand the daily realities of domestic workers: what challenges they face, what situations lead to conflict or discomfort, and where they feel a lack of support or protection.
Their voices are essential to shaping meaningful, effective actions.
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What We Ask
The survey invites domestic workers to share their experiences by answering questions such as:
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Have you ever felt unsafe, disrespected, or pressured in your job?
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Were you able to speak up? If not, what held you back?
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What kind of support, information, or training would have helped?
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What do you wish employers better understood?
The survey is available in multiple languages to make sure it is accessible to as many workers as possible, regardless of background.
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What We Hope
We hope the responses will provide valuable insight into the needs and struggles of domestic workers, many of whom remain invisible in society despite the essential role they play in countless households.
This survey is the first step in making those voices heard and ensuring they are at the center of this project.
The Workshops
To turn awareness into action, we are organizing a series of workshops designed to empower, inform, and connect.
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Well-informed workers and employers prevent conflict.
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What to Expect
This workshop, hosted by us is open to the general public and aims to provide clear, accessible information about the legal framework surrounding domestic work in Switzerland.
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We explore key topics such as:
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Rights and responsibilities of domestic workers and employers
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Contract essentials and legal protections
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Minimum wage, working hours, and time off
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Insurance, social security, and contributions
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Ending an employment relationship and resolving conflicts
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Who Can Join
Everyone is welcome to attend, including:
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Domestic workers
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Employers and future employers
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Social workers, educators, and community members
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Anyone interested in fair and respectful employment practices
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This session offers a space to learn, ask questions, and take part in building a culture of respect, safety, and equality in domestic work.
BUTTON TO THE SURVEY
PLACE FOR THE OTHER TWO WORKSHOPS
Made Possible By
This project is made possible thanks to the financial support of the Canton of Geneva and the in-kind support of the City of Geneva, who is providing the venue for our workshops.
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