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The Sun
2 hours ago
- Business
- The Sun
B&M shoppers spot outdoor climbing frames perfect for summer holidays slashed to just £1
SHOPPERS are rushing to B&M after one savvy customer spotted a children's outdoor climbing frame for just £1. Posting on social media, users were eager to get to their local store to snap up the bargain themselves. 2 One shopper shared their find to the Facebook group Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK, showing a receipt for the £1 item. Others began tagging friends and family, desperate to get their hands on the product. While the toddler play centre doesn't appear to be available online, it is still available in select stores. It includes a slide, swing and a climbing frame to keep your children entertained all summer long. The secure chair helps ensure younger children are kept safe, while the slide is sure to provide hours of fun. According to the Facebook post, the frame is suitable for children aged 12 months to eight years. Others were posting their own bargain buys, as one user said they had bought children's toys for just £3. Shoppers can also buy a range of children's books for just 50p for a limited time as the items are discounted by 50 per cent. For just £3 customers can find a range of figurines and slimes. While not available for the same bargain prices, B&M boast a range of affordable outdoor fun for children. It includes a 2-in-1 garden swing set for £30, reduced from £50. However, customers will need to be quick as the item is already low in stock. You'll get even more bang for your buck, as the set is complete with one toddler swing and one junior seat, ensuring it is suitable for toddlers aged 12-36 months, and children aged three to eight. Its steel frame offers durability, meaning your child can enjoy it for years to come. No matter what you're after, B&M has something for everyone. For eager climbers, they've got the Climb & Swing Set for £80. And now is the perfect time to buy one, as it is reduced from £100. It includes a monkey bar, cargo net and garden play set. According to the B&M website description: "This versatile playset offers fun, creativity, and physical activity". The item is suitable for children aged three and up. 2
Independent Singapore
3 days ago
- Independent Singapore
Employer discovers maid threw household items out the window, asks if incident can be reported to police
SINGAPORE: An employer was shocked after discovering through CCTV footage that her domestic helper had thrown household items out of a window. She shared the incident in the 'MDW in Singapore' Facebook group on Sunday (Jul 27), explaining that she had been trying to locate several items that had mysteriously gone missing from her home. Although the items were not particularly expensive, she emphasised that they were essential to her family's daily routine and that replacing them had been both inconvenient and frustrating. She said she had questioned the helper multiple times about the missing items, hoping for an explanation or even a clue as to where they might have gone. However, each time, the helper insisted she had no knowledge of them. Suspecting something was amiss, the employer reviewed the CCTV recordings and was disturbed by what she saw. 'I was shocked to see that she threw it away at the window. She did it in a careful manner…to appear like she was just staring out of the window…but CCTV still captured everything when she touched it and pushed it out of the window,' the employer explained. She added that the incident was especially unexpected, as the helper had always come across as 'respectful, frail-looking, mild-mannered, and cheerful.' 'We really need to be vigilant and not let looks deceive us,' she wrote. The employer also shared that the incident occurred shortly after the family had attempted to make peace with the helper following a prior disagreement. 'There was a misunderstanding with her a few days ago… But we even took the first step to make it right with her even if it's not entirely our fault. We even prayed for her and shared something about God with her, and this incident (throwing away the things) happened like 30 mins after the prayer… Which is so odd…' Seeking advice from the community, she asked whether the incident could be reported to the police. 'Can this be reported to police? So far, I have not decided to take action, and it is unlikely for me to do so… However, it's good to know my options in case this happens again…. because the item thrown is not expensive (quite cheap), but money is still money,' she said. 'If I report to police…I don't even know if this is too simple to be reported…and maybe they will find me a nuisance…' 'Please take action and don't give a chance.' Other employers who responded to the post shared similar experiences with their own domestic helpers and encouraged her to consider finding a replacement. One wrote, 'I had some previous helpers who did similar. Throw wanted good things away purposely. It's like their way of being vindictive. I've learnt over the years that such behaviour is a huge red flag. Crime usually only escalates. Believe that they are the person that they show you.' Another commented, 'Please take action and don't give a chance. If you let her off, she'll just do it again, if not to you, then her next employer.' A third added, 'Throwing things out like that is spiteful, not innocent. Some people hide behind a sweet face, but actions don't lie. You have every right to protect your home. Don't second-guess that.' On the other hand, some others suggested that if the employer still wished to continue the working relationship, she should have an open and honest conversation with the helper. One said, 'If you like her and still want her around, you must sit her down to chat with the CCTV evidence. Explain to her that this will be the first and last conversation you'll have with her about it, and if it happens again, she will be fired.' How to handle a dispute with your domestic helper The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) recommends that employers take the following steps when dealing with a dispute or misunderstanding: Communicate your issues. Instead of reacting out of anger or ignoring the problem, take the time to sit down with your helper in a quiet setting. Have an open and honest conversation. Allow her to share her side of the story without interruption, and try to listen with an open mind. At the same time, explain your concerns clearly and respectfully so she understands where you are coming from. Reach out for help. If having an honest conversation doesn't help settle things, you can reach out to your employment agency (EA) for support. If the issue still isn't resolved, groups like the Association of Employment Agencies (Singapore) or the Centre for Domestic Employees are also there to offer guidance. Report the incident. If you suspect your helper has committed a criminal offence, report the matter to the authorities. Employers are advised not to take matters into their own hands. Read also: 'I never even thought of running away' — Maid upset after employer refuses to give her a two-month salary advance of S$1.2k
Independent Singapore
5 days ago
- General
- Independent Singapore
‘All I hear is shouting, bullying, and verbal abuse' — Helper says she's been mistreated since day one
SINGAPORE: A domestic helper has taken to social media to share her distressing experience working for a Singaporean family, claiming that she has been subjected to 'shouting, bullying and verbal abuse' since the day she arrived. In her post on the Direct Hire Transfer Singapore Maid / Domestic Helper Facebook group, the helper said she was hired about two months ago and was initially hopeful about the job. 'When she [my employer] interviewed me, she kept texting me to come and join her family,' she wrote. 'At that time, [I had two other potential] employers, but it wasn't urgent, so I thought she liked me because she hoped I could join them.' Unfortunately, things took a turn the moment she stepped into the household. 'From the first day I came to this house, all I hear is shouting, bullying and verbal abuse. Honestly, I just want to work, save money, and go home. No play or anything else,' she said. She added that more recently, her employer suddenly told her, 'I don't like you,' which left her confused and upset. 'If she didn't like me, why did she keep asking me to come?' she asked. 'I can't take this, and I asked her to send me back to my hometown. Employers, can you help me with this situation? What should I do? Why is [she] like this?' 'This is already mental abuse.' In the comments, one netizen encouraged the helper to try having an open and respectful conversation with her employer to understand the root of the problem. 'Have you tried to ask your employer why she is not happy with you so you can work on it? Sometimes, maybe she is stressed at work and takes it out on you. But if you check in with her like, 'Is there anything I can do better or improve?' maybe she will realise that she is lashing out at you a lot.' Building on this, another netizen recommended that the helper consider requesting a transfer to a different employer rather than immediately asking to return home. 'What was the situation that led to her saying she doesn't like you? Might be better to ask her (or any family member who can make decisions) for a transfer because sending you back to your hometown costs her a ticket, and she might not want to pay also.' Meanwhile, a third commenter urged the helper to prioritise her well-being, writing, 'This is already mental abuse!!! It's better to go home first, take a breath, [rest] for a while, and then apply for new jobs through an agency. Hopefully, you'll get a good employer.' Help for abused FDWs As stated on the A.C.T Against Violence website, foreign domestic workers who are experiencing abuse, whether verbal, physical or in the form of labour exploitation, may report the matter to the police or call the FDW Helpline on 1800 339 5505 to speak with an officer from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). See also Maid made to work while standing for 17 hours They may also reach out to non-governmental organisations such as the Humanitarian Organisation for Migrant Economics (HOME), the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE), and the Foreign Domestic Worker Association for Social Support and Training (FAST). Read also: Fresh grad whose salary expectation is only S$2.8k–3k says he's still struggling to land a job
Independent Singapore
24-07-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Employer slammed for restricting helper's phone use to just 2 hours a day
SINGAPORE: An employer was slammed online for limiting her domestic helper's phone use to only two hours a day, from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. and asking whether she should keep the device after that time. Posting anonymously in the 'Direct Hire Transfer Singapore Maid / Domestic helper' Facebook group on Tuesday (Jul 22), the employer wrote, 'As agreed with helper, she can only use the phone between 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. at night. Should I keep her phone with me after 11 p.m., or should I request her to put the phone in the living room after 11 p.m.? Thanks! If I keep her phone, she will only be able to get it from me after 9 p.m. and use (it) for two hours.' Her post quickly drew flak from netizens, many of whom felt the restriction was overly controlling and dehumanising. One commenter, who claimed to be a former helper, wrote, 'Strict phone rules like this can feel very controlling and unfair. We are human too — with emotions, families we miss, and personal lives outside of work. After a long, tiring day, having a phone helps us feel connected and cared for.' Another questioned the legality and ethics of the practice, saying, 'The MOM (Ministry of Manpower) allowed you to keep her phone? How (will) she communicate to her family and friends if you give only two hours to use her phone? Your helper is so poor. If I were your helper, I would run away and lose you.' Others pointed out the double standards, highlighting how even employers use their phones during working hours. 'This is an electronic era, we ourselves cannot part with our phone, how can we expect others to do it? We also use our phone during work. Helpers also need to communicate with their family,' one said. Another added, '2025 still have this kind of employer. OMG pity the helper.' A third shared, 'My employer lets me use my phone anytime… give privacy to your helper. Don't be the reason your helper is unhappy to work for you.' Employer claps back at critics Not one to sit quietly, the employer later edited her post and clapped back at critics, saying that too many 'self-entitled helpers' and 'so-called employers' had overreacted. She clarified that she hadn't confiscated her helper's phone and was simply asking whether she should keep it after 11 p.m. The employer also defended her decision to restrict phone use to just two hours per day, arguing that many helpers today are 'addicted' to their phones. As proof, she pointed out that numerous helpers were replying to her post at 3 p.m., which, to her, was a clear sign that they were using their phones during working hours instead of focusing on their tasks. 'It makes me wonder if their employers even know they could be phone addict, e.g., using social media instead of looking after children/elderly, doing food prep for dinner, or any other tasks given for the day?' she wrote. 'I pity their employers, as I am not so tolerating when it comes to phone usage. Seeing how so many helpers mentioned that their employers do not mind their phone usage, but they remained anonymous in their replies, makes me really wonder if their employers truly don't mind or unaware? My break time for the helper will be her lunch time and one short afternoon nap,' she added. What can employers do? Ms K Jayaprema, president of the Association of Employment Agencies (Singapore), encourages employers to have open and respectful conversations with their helpers regarding phone use. If there are concerns about overuse, particularly during rest periods or working hours, she advises addressing them directly. 'It's wise to advise your MDW (migrant domestic worker) against excessive phone use, especially addictive social media habits. For instance, using the phone late into night can affect her sleep and health. Inadequate sleep may jeopardise her safety at work,' she said, responding to a query about phone usage on the MOM's website. She also recommended that employers establish clear and reasonable house rules, such as turning off the phone during working hours unless an urgent call is expected, or refraining from phone use after bedtime to ensure adequate rest. Read also: Man works 20 hours a day with one day off a week to chase financial freedom, asks locals, 'Is this sacrifice really worth it?'
Independent Singapore
23-07-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Maid asks for later curfew and nearly S$2k cash advance to buy latest iPhone, employer unsure whether to say yes
SINGAPORE: An employer was surprised when her helper, nearing the end of her contract, asked for nearly S$2,000 in advance to purchase the latest iPhone. In a post shared on Tuesday (July 22) in the 'Direct Hire Transfer Singapore Maid / Domestic Helper' Facebook group, the employer explained that her helper, who has been with the family for a year and a half, was firm about wanting 'an iPhone' and unwilling to consider other brands. 'Her reasoning is she's worked her whole life for her family, and now she wants a gift for herself,' the employer shared. Along with the cash advance, the helper also requested a later curfew on her days off. While she is currently expected to return home by 7 p.m., she has asked to extend this to 8:30 p.m. so she can have dinner outside before heading back. The employer noted that the helper has been performing her duties 'satisfactorily,' and even mentioned that their toddler has grown attached to her. However, she expressed hesitation about approving the requests, especially the later curfew, as the helper shares a room with their child. 'We absolutely need her to be back early to avoid disturbing the child's sleep at 9 p.m.,' she wrote. Unsure of how to move forward, the employer asked fellow locals, 'What would you do if you were in our position? Would you agree to her requests?' 'She will need to save up if she really wants it.' In the comments section, one netizen said they wouldn't agree to giving a cash advance, especially since the iPhone is 'a want and not a need.' 'She can still buy the iPhone once she saves up enough money. There is also no guarantee that she won't run away after receiving the advance for the iPhone,' they added. Regarding the request for a later curfew, the same commenter suggested that the employer consider a few things before deciding. 'You have to ask yourself: 1. If you can handle the house till 8.30 p.m.; 2. Do you trust her on her off days? Was she wearing any revealing clothes or heavy makeup on her off days? Has she shown any signs of engaging in activities that you are not comfortable with?' Another netizen said, 'I think returning home at 8:30 p.m. on her off days is fine. Sometimes my helper comes home at 9 p.m., and I'm totally fine with that. But the S$2k advance for the iPhone is a bit much… personally, I wouldn't agree to that… she will need to save up if she really wants it.' A third shared, 'About her asking for a S$2k advance, if you trust her, give it to her. If you don't, don't give. With my previous employer, I always took in advance S$2k+, and we deducted it from my monthly salary. But my current employer doesn't like paying in advance, but I can understand her as well.' In other news, a local employer has decided to send her maid back to the Philippines after discovering she had borrowed money from loan sharks. In a post on r/askSingapore, a Reddit forum, the employer explained that she found out about this issue while preparing for an overseas trip scheduled for early December. Read more: 'They threatened my family' – Employer decides to send helper back home after finding out she borrowed money from loan sharks Featured image by Depositphotos (for illustration purposes only)
