Let's Talk About the National Referral Mechanism and Domestic Workers 2/5
- thevoiceofdomesticworkers
- Mar 27
- 3 min read
The UK government claims that the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) is designed to protect victims of trafficking and exploitation. However, for domestic workers, the system often falls short. Many of us are repeatedly told that the NRM is not meant for us because we are not victims—we are workers. Yet, we find ourselves entangled in a system that does not truly recognize our rights or needs.
The Problem with the NRM for Domestic Workers
One of the biggest issues with the NRM is its failure to support domestic workers effectively. Despite being placed under the system, workers often face numerous challenges, including:
Limited Visa Renewal and Employment Flexibility: Domestic workers should have the ability to renew their visas and change employers freely. The current limitations create uncertainty and restrict opportunities for growth and stability. Many employers do not understand the NRM status, leading to lost job opportunities, even when workers have the legal right to work.
Lack of Understanding from Employers: Due to the lack of awareness surrounding the NRM, many employers refuse to hire workers under this system. This results in unnecessary job loss and financial instability for those who are already vulnerable.
Perpetrators Remain Unpunished: Those responsible for trafficking and abuse often continue to operate without consequence. Some offenders repeatedly enter and exit the UK without facing bans or proper legal action.
The Need for Change
To make the system fairer and more effective for domestic workers, we need:
Visa Flexibility: Extending visa duration and allowing workers to change employers freely would provide greater security and independence, enabling them to rebuild their lives without fear.
Improved Legal Support: Many workers struggle to find solicitors or translators, making it difficult to navigate the system. Some cases are dismissed simply because there was no translator available during the assessment process.
Independent Investigations: Cases of trafficking and exploitation should be independently investigated to ensure that workers receive fair treatment and protection.
Better Training for First Responders: Not all police officers and officials understand the NRM. Many cases are treated as civil disputes rather than trafficking cases, leaving workers without the proper legal recourse.
Safe and Secure Accommodation: Many victims are placed in accommodations that are far from essential services, making travel difficult. Additionally, these accommodations often house individuals with severe mental health conditions, creating an unsafe environment.
Ending the Tied Visa System
The tied visa system forces domestic workers to remain with abusive employers, stripping them of their autonomy and rights. It is crucial to reinstate the rights of domestic workers, allowing them the protection and recognition they deserve.
The Role of The Voice of Domestic Workers
The Voice of Domestic Workers continues to fight for systemic change, providing emotional support, legal guidance, and advocacy for those caught in the NRM. While we are not first responders, we do everything we can to assist workers in retaining their right to work and rebuilding their lives.
Our director, Marissa, works tirelessly to push for better policies and fairer treatment under the NRM. The process is painful and unfair, but we will not stop fighting until domestic workers receive the justice and recognition they deserve.
We call on the UK government to acknowledge that domestic workers are not just victims but workers who deserve fair treatment, stability, and protection under the law.
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