I provide care for your elderly relatives, the ones you hold dear above all else. I offer support during their moments of fear, hold their hands through trembling times, and bring solace during the quiet hours of the night. I assist them in regaining mobility, eating, and reconnecting with their humanity.
Being a migrant care worker, I take pride in the essential work I do, driven by a genuine sense of duty rather than mere job requirements. After seeking asylum in the UK to find safety and rebuild my life, I transitioned into caregiving, earning respect and gratitude from those I assist.
Despite the fulfillment I find in my role, I sometimes sense a lack of recognition for the sacrifices I make and the effort I put in daily. I work tirelessly, enduring long shifts and fulfilling responsibilities beyond the call of duty. Contrary to being labeled a burden, my contributions are vital to the functioning of care facilities and hospitals, holding families together and supporting the healthcare system.
The proposal of a mandatory 15-year wait for Indefinite Leave to Remain for individuals like me evokes a deep sense of injustice. Despite dedicating years of service, loyalty, and energy to this country, being made to wait indefinitely for acceptance is disheartening.
We, as migrant carers, do not seek special treatment or accolades; rather, we advocate for fairness and empathy. We carry immense responsibilities and play a crucial role in society. All we desire is stability, respect, and the opportunity to build a secure future without prolonged uncertainty about our status.
We do not aim to take but to give back to the community that we serve diligently every day. It is our hope that one day the UK will reciprocate our care and acknowledge our contributions with equal consideration and compassion.