I provide care for your elderly relatives, the ones you hold dear. I offer support during their moments of fear, hold their trembling hands, and bring solace in the quiet of the night. I assist them in regaining their mobility, appetite, and sense of humanity.
At times, I am the source of their first smile in weeks. Every day, I dedicate a part of myself to those under my care because they deserve respect, empathy, and affection.
I am a migrant caregiver, and I take great pride in the work I do silently and earnestly. I do not offer care out of obligation but because it is an intrinsic part of who I am.
Having arrived in the UK as an asylum seeker in search of safety and a fresh start, I found employment as a caregiver. Through my dedication, I earned gratitude, respect, and genuine acknowledgment from the individuals and families I assisted.
This recognition has given me a sense of purpose and resilience. However, I sometimes feel unseen by the nation I serve – unrecognized as an individual behind the uniform, one who gives tirelessly each day.
I work extended shifts that lead to exhaustion and fulfill my tax obligations like any other citizen. Nothing is handed to me; everything I possess is earned through hard work, patience, and compassion.
Despite this, there are instances where care workers like me are labeled as a “burden” or even as “strangers.” A burden? I wake early to ensure someone’s mother is cared for, clothed, and comfortable. I extend my hours so families can go about their day knowing their loved ones are in good hands.
I take on roles that others shy away from. Care facilities remain operational because of individuals like us. Hospitals continue to function because of our efforts.
Families stay united due to our contributions. If migrant caregivers were to vanish suddenly, the entire system would be disrupted, and millions of lives would be affected. The recent proposal suggesting a waiting period of *15 years* before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain has caused me immense internal distress.
Fifteen years of dedicating my energy, time, and youth. Fifteen years of service, sacrifice, and loyalty – yet being told, “You do not belong here yet.”
We are not seeking special treatment, applause, or accolades. We simply ask for fairness and humanity. How can we be deemed a burden when we carry such weight? When we uplift so many?
I do not wish to feel like a temporary visitor in the place where I spend my days serving others wholeheartedly. I desire stability, respect, and an opportunity to construct a future without enduring decades of waiting to be accepted.
To the UK, I express from the depths of my heart: We are not here to take; we are here to give – and we have been giving since our arrival.
All I ask for is that one day, the country I care for will reciprocate and care for us in return.