BLOG
Published on 7 May 2025 by Chise C.
It’s not unusual for domestic helpers to occasionally request time off on a day that’s not their designated rest day—perhaps for a personal appointment, a family matter, or a special event. As an employer, how you handle these requests can shape your working relationship and create a more respectful and understanding household environment.
Here’s what you can do when your helper asks for a day off outside of their usual rest schedule.
1. Understand the reason for the request
Start by having a calm and respectful conversation. Ask your helper why they need the time off. Is it for a medical appointment, a religious or cultural event, or a family emergency? Being empathetic and listening to their needs can help build trust and open communication.
2. Review your work agreement
Check the employment agreement or house rules you’ve established. If the request falls outside the standard rest day arrangement, see if there’s room for flexibility. While you’re not obligated to grant additional days off, understanding the situation can help you decide what’s fair and reasonable.
3. Offer a make-up arrangement (if needed)
If you agree to the day off, consider discussing how the time can be made up. Options include:
- Swapping the day off with another working day
- Adjusting tasks for the week to manage workloads
- Agreeing that it will be considered unpaid leave (if appropriate and mutually agreed)
Be sure that any agreement follows MOM (Ministry of Manpower) guidelines and is clearly communicated.
4. Plan ahead
If the day-off request isn’t urgent, ask your helper to give you advance notice whenever possible. This allows you to rearrange household tasks or childcare schedules and reduces stress for everyone involved.
Encourage early communication to avoid last-minute surprises.
5. Show support and respect
Being supportive when your helper has a genuine need for time off—even on a non-rest day—can go a long way in creating a loyal and motivated working relationship. Just like anyone else, domestic helpers appreciate flexibility and understanding in times of need.
6. Document the agreement
If the day off affects wages, work schedules, or future rest days, it's a good idea to record the arrangement in writing—even if it's just a quick note or message thread. This ensures clarity and helps avoid misunderstandings later on.
Granting a day off on a non-rest day is not just about the rules—it’s about mutual respect, communication, and balance. When handled well, it shows your helper that they’re valued not just as a worker, but as a person. In return, you’re likely to have a more dedicated and appreciative household member.
You might interested in:
A Complete Guide to Hiring Filipino Helpers in Singapore
Countries Where You Can Find Great Domestic Helpers
How to Hire and Manage Sri Lankan Helpers in Singapore
Why Burmese Helpers Are Winning Hearts Around the World
A Bouquet, a Spa Day, and the Power of Kindness: How One Employer Sets the Standard
It’s not unusual for domestic helpers to occasionally request time off on a day that’s not their designated rest day—perhaps for a personal appointment, a family matter, or a special event. As an employer, how you handle these requests can shape your working relationship and create a more respectful and understanding household environment.
Here’s what you can do when your helper asks for a day off outside of their usual rest schedule.
1. Understand the reason for the request
Start by having a calm and respectful conversation. Ask your helper why they need the time off. Is it for a medical appointment, a religious or cultural event, or a family emergency? Being empathetic and listening to their needs can help build trust and open communication.
2. Review your work agreement
Check the employment agreement or house rules you’ve established. If the request falls outside the standard rest day arrangement, see if there’s room for flexibility. While you’re not obligated to grant additional days off, understanding the situation can help you decide what’s fair and reasonable.
3. Offer a make-up arrangement (if needed)
If you agree to the day off, consider discussing how the time can be made up. Options include:
- Swapping the day off with another working day
- Adjusting tasks for the week to manage workloads
- Agreeing that it will be considered unpaid leave (if appropriate and mutually agreed)
Be sure that any agreement follows MOM (Ministry of Manpower) guidelines and is clearly communicated.
4. Plan ahead
If the day-off request isn’t urgent, ask your helper to give you advance notice whenever possible. This allows you to rearrange household tasks or childcare schedules and reduces stress for everyone involved.
Encourage early communication to avoid last-minute surprises.
5. Show support and respect
Being supportive when your helper has a genuine need for time off—even on a non-rest day—can go a long way in creating a loyal and motivated working relationship. Just like anyone else, domestic helpers appreciate flexibility and understanding in times of need.
6. Document the agreement
If the day off affects wages, work schedules, or future rest days, it's a good idea to record the arrangement in writing—even if it's just a quick note or message thread. This ensures clarity and helps avoid misunderstandings later on.
Granting a day off on a non-rest day is not just about the rules—it’s about mutual respect, communication, and balance. When handled well, it shows your helper that they’re valued not just as a worker, but as a person. In return, you’re likely to have a more dedicated and appreciative household member.
You might interested in:
A Complete Guide to Hiring Filipino Helpers in Singapore
Countries Where You Can Find Great Domestic Helpers
How to Hire and Manage Sri Lankan Helpers in Singapore
Why Burmese Helpers Are Winning Hearts Around the World
A Bouquet, a Spa Day, and the Power of Kindness: How One Employer Sets the Standard