The outsourcing of domestic work in the UK has been steadily rising since the 1970s, but there has been little research into White British women who work as independent providers of cleaning services. Work, Labour and Cleaning is a cross-cultural analysis based on new research into two particular social contexts, one in the UK and one in India. It argues that outsourced domestic cleaning can be undertaken either as work (using mental and manual skills) or as labour (unskilled, 'natural' women's work) depending on the social context and working conditions in which it occurs. The book challenges feminist dogma and popular myths about housework.

About the Author
Lotika Singha received her doctorate in women's studies from the University of York. Her research interests centre on social inequalities in everyday life and cross-cultural theories across various population groups.

Reviews
"Brilliant and thought-provoking, this much-needed book takes up the challenge to compare two realities treated so far as 'worlds apart'.'' Sabrina Marchetti, Ca' Foscari University of Venice



Book Information
ISBN 9781529201468
Author Lotika Singha
Format Hardback
Page Count 292
Imprint Bristol University Press
Publisher Bristol University Press