Kalayaan provides legal advice and support services to migrant domestic workers in the UK. The organisation also advocates for improvements in legislation that affects its client group. Our service users are for the vast majority women, most come most South and South-East Asian countries, some from Africa and Latin America. Most have experienced abuse and exploitation from their employers, many are victims of modern slavery. Kalayaan is a nominated First Responder in the identification of victims of trafficking and modern slavery and we refer identified victims to the Competent Authority for statutory support. We are the only advice organisation in the UK that works specifically with migrant domestic workers, we have build a strong relationship of trust with the community and most come to us following the recommendations of previous service users.
Kalayaan provides:
1-to-1 advice sessions on immigration and employment issues
casework
identification of victims of trafficking or modern slavery and referrals into the National Referral Mechanism for statutory support
support accessing health care and mental health care services
free English classes
practical help with financial inclusion
Kalayaan also engages in policy work to improve legislation affecting migrant domestic workers. It conducts research and produces briefings to support its policy work. Kalayaan believes migrant domestic workers are the best advocates of themselves, and supports them getting involved in policy and media work.