What Can a Domestic Helper Do? Complete Guide to Duties, Hiring & Costs
Sep, 21 2025
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Domestic helper is a person employed to perform household tasks such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, childcare and elder care. Whether you need a full‑time live‑in maid or a part‑time assistant, understanding what a domestic helper can do helps you set realistic expectations and avoid costly misunderstandings.
Understanding the Role
At its core, a domestic helper bridges the gap between a busy household and a well‑kept home. The role can be tailored to fit a single‑person apartment or a sprawling villa, and responsibilities often evolve as family needs change.
Core Household Responsibilities
Cleaning involves dusting, vacuuming, mopping floors and maintaining bathrooms, kitchens and living areas to a hygienic standard. Professional cleaners usually work with eco‑friendly products, which can reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality.
Cooking covers meal planning, grocery shopping, food preparation and kitchen clean‑up. A helper skilled in regional cuisines can preserve family food traditions while introducing healthier options.
Laundry entails washing, drying, ironing and folding garments, as well as caring for delicate fabrics and seasonal wardrobes. Proper sorting and stain treatment extend the life of clothing and reduce replacement costs.
Specialized Care Services
Childcare includes supervising playtime, assisting with homework, preparing age‑appropriate meals and ensuring safety during outings. Many helpers hold first‑aid certifications, which gives parents extra peace of mind.
Elder care covers medication reminders, mobility assistance, companionship and light physical therapy exercises. Helpers with experience in geriatric care can spot early health warning signs, potentially avoiding hospitalisations.
Pet care may involve feeding, walking, grooming and administering medication to dogs, cats or small animals. A pet‑loving helper becomes an extension of the family, reducing stress for owners who travel frequently.
Employment Models: Full‑Time vs Part‑Time
| Attribute | Full‑Time (Live‑In) | Part‑Time (Live‑Out) |
|---|---|---|
| Hours per week | 40‑50 | 10‑30 |
| Typical salary (UK) | £12,000‑£18,000 | £8‑£12 per hour |
| Key duties | All core + specialized care | Selected core tasks only |
| Flexibility | Limited (set schedule) | High (on‑demand) |
| Accommodation | Provided (room & board) | Not provided |
Choosing between a full‑time maid and a part‑time maid depends on household size, budget and the need for specialised tasks.
Legal and Contractual Basics
In the UK, domestic helpers are classified as employees, which means they are entitled to statutory rights: minimum wage, paid holiday, sick pay and a written contract. A robust employment contract should outline salary, working hours, duties, notice period and any live‑in allowances.
Employers must also register for PAYE (Pay As You Earn) and make National Insurance contributions. Failure to comply can result in penalties and affect the helper’s future visa applications if they are foreign nationals.
The Hiring Process
- Define the role: list core and optional duties.
- Choose a sourcing method: reputable agency, online platform, or personal referral.
- Screen candidates: verify identity, work permits and conduct a reference check.
- Interview: ask scenario‑based questions (e.g., "How would you handle a spilled sauce during dinner?").
- Trial period: start with a week‑long trial to gauge compatibility and skill level.
- Finalize contract: include salary, working hours, duties and termination clauses.
Agencies often provide a background check and initial training, which can save time and reduce risk.
Managing Expectations and Performance
Clear communication is the cornerstone of a successful partnership. Establish a weekly schedule, write down recurring tasks and hold a short check‑in every Friday to discuss any concerns.
Use a simple task‑tracking sheet: column A for the date, column B for the task, column C for completion status. This visual aid helps both parties see progress and address gaps quickly.
Cost Planning and Budgeting
Average salaries vary by region. In Manchester, a full‑time live‑in helper typically earns between £12,000 and £15,000 per year, while part‑time helpers charge £8‑£12 per hour. Add ancillary costs such as food, accommodation (if live‑in), transportation, and statutory contributions.
Budgeting tip: allocate 10% of the total salary for occasional training (e.g., first‑aid refresher) and 5% for bonus incentives tied to performance milestones.
Tips, Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
- Define duties early. Vague expectations lead to disputes.
- Document any changes to the scope in writing.
- Respect cultural differences; many helpers come from abroad and may have different work‑ethic norms.
- Ensure proper rest periods; over‑working can cause burnout and high turnover.
- Maintain records of pay, holidays and overtime for legal compliance.
When issues arise, address them promptly, focusing on solutions rather than blame. Mediation through the hiring agency can be helpful if direct conversation stalls.
Related Concepts
Understanding domestic helpers fits into a broader ecosystem of home‑service topics. You might also explore home maintenance (plumbing, electrical), household budgeting strategies, or the growing field of smart home assistants that can streamline task management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tasks can a domestic helper legally perform?
A domestic helper can carry out any household duties agreed upon in the employment contract, such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, childcare, elder care and pet care. Tasks that require professional licences (e.g., electrical work) must be performed by certified tradespeople.
How much should I pay a part‑time helper in Manchester?
Part‑time helpers in Manchester typically charge between £8 and £12 per hour, depending on experience and the complexity of duties. Adding a small travel allowance is common if the helper commutes from outside the borough.
Do I need a work permit for a foreign domestic helper?
Yes. Non‑UK nationals must have a valid visa that permits domestic employment, such as a Tier 2 (General) or the new Skilled Worker route. The employer often sponsors the visa and must meet minimum salary thresholds.
What should be included in an employment contract?
A solid contract lists salary, working hours, duties, holidays, sick pay, notice period, accommodation (if live‑in), overtime rates and any probationary terms. Both parties should sign two copies, keeping one each.
How can I evaluate a helper’s performance?
Use a simple checklist covering core tasks (e.g., "Floors swept", "Meals prepared", "Kids supervised for 2‑hour block"). Review it weekly and discuss any gaps. Positive reinforcement and occasional bonuses boost morale and consistency.
Are there insurance options for domestic helpers?
Many employers add the helper to their home contents insurance as an ‘additional insured’ for accidental damage. Some agencies also offer liability coverage that protects both parties in case of injuries or property loss.