Tamika Small, Contributor

Small-Campbell

This is the first in a new series of articles geared at helping housewives cope with some common challenges.

So you notice that a little sugar, random pairs of socks or a bottle of perfume are missing. All signs lead to the newest addition to the family, your helper of six months.

What not to do

Accuse without proof

Stop paying salary

Physically or verbally abuse her

Threaten in any way

Fire without finding out the truth

Do not accuse her without proof; be sure before you question someone's integrity. You were comfortable with the references during the interview process and she seemed honest. Give her the benefit of the doubt.

Even if stealing occurs, it is illegal to terminate the remuneration of an employee if she has done the duties according to the agreement. Individuals have the right to payment for work they are contracted to do.

Being abusive or threatening is unnecessary, and although you may be angry, don't get involved in any situation that is potentially dangerous to you or your family.

But you want to know the truth. Could they just be misplaced? Did the helper actually steal them? Don't accuse only to find them somewhere else.

What to do

1.	Report it to the police. If you have proof of theft, ask that the helper be prosecuted. You could also set up a video camera in a strategic location to catch the culprit.
2.	Inventory your belongings. If anything goes missing, you will know for sure you had it and you would be able to establish a timeline as to when it disappeared. If you suspect her, advise the helper that you would like to search her belongings before she leaves your home. This option may be tricky as you may never see her again.
3.	Be direct. Speak to the helper in private, calmly. Explain what's missing and ask if she has seen it without accusing. If your approach is confrontational, you will never see her or your belongings again.

How to avoid being a victim

1.	Ensure you have a picture of the helper (take one at interview).
2.	Check her references well (ask to meet her previous employer).
3.	Make an inventory of your belongings and date the list for reference.
4.	Ask for a police report (cost $1,000).
5.	Get proof of her address.
6.	Never accept excuses for lack of references.
7.	Always pay your helper in a fair and timely manner.

If the matter is unresolved and you are convinced she is the culprit, pay her what is due and terminate employment. Pursue the matter with the police if desired and move on. You may report it to the Ministry of Labour and advise them that you have made a police report against the individual. Give them her name, address, phone number and photograph.

It is hard to disregard such acts but without proof of wrongdoing, any action outside of involving the authorities may cause more trouble in the long run. Follow your gut and heed your first impression.

Tamika Small, Executive Housekeeping & Laundry, 48 Burbank Avenue. Teleplone: 924-1721 or email: executive.housekeeping@yahoo.com.