From Domestic Slaves to Heroes: Saving Victims of Abuse in the UK
A group of former domestic workers now rescues others from abuse and exploitation in the UK, offering hope and support to those in need
Hyde Park, UK, Domestic Workers, Modern Slavery, Rescue, Abuse
Hyde Park: In the heart of London, a woman rushes kids to the playground. She’s one of many domestic workers in this posh area, but her face tells a different story.
Marissa Begonia notices her unease and hands her a business card, speaking softly in Tagalog. “If your employer treats you badly, we can help,” she reassures. The woman responds, worried about a friend who’s being mistreated.
Marissa and her team, including Mimi and Grace, have rescued 60 women this year alone. They’ve saved over 220 in the last five years. They’re known as the Voice of Domestic Workers, and they’re fearless.
Despite facing armed bodyguards, they continue their mission. “Many women suffer physical abuse, starvation, and even rape,” Marissa shares. “The woman behind us could be next.”
They’re quick thinkers. Once, they had to act fast at an airport to save a woman from being sent to Dubai. They signaled her to go to the restroom, changed clothes, and she escaped while the bodyguard followed Marissa.
Today, they’re on the lookout in Kensington, always cautious of employers or security nearby. Video footage shows women fleeing, often in tears, being whisked away to safety.
One woman, Renya, recalls hiding her belongings in a trash bag to avoid detection. “We were scared but had to be brave,” she says. For Marissa and her crew, VODW feels like family. They understand the pain of being trapped and mistreated.
Marissa herself was once a victim. She left the Philippines to work for a wealthy family but faced abuse and exploitation. “I thought I was alone until I found Unite the Union,” she explains. They helped her connect with others in similar situations.
In 2009, she founded Justice for Domestic Workers, which later became VODW. They’ve even formed a Domestic Workers Branch within Unite, a groundbreaking move.
Marissa’s phone is always on, ready for calls at any hour. “Sometimes they can only call at 2am when it’s safe,” she says. They’ve even traveled as far as Scotland to rescue women.
Cristina, 39, was one of those saved after receiving a VODW card. “They gave me shelter and helped me heal,” she shares. For Mimi, seeing women in distress hits close to home. She remembers her own struggles and the fear she felt.
Marissa believes the current laws aren’t enough. “Domestic workers need protection. Do we have to suffer abuse to get help?” she asks. Their fight continues, and they’re determined to make a difference.