Hong Kong's Hidden Injured Workers Get a Lifeline

A Hong Kong charity that quietly supports hundreds of injured workers each year has won crucial funding to expand its work. The Hong Kong Workers’ Health Centre (HKWHC) is one of 13 charities chosen for this year's Operation Santa Claus (OSC) fundraising campaign. The campaign is jointly organized by the South China Morning Post and public broadcaster RTHK. The new funds will support the centre's "Care, Support & Connect" project. This initiative aims to help 120 injured workers and their family carers next year. Many injured workers struggle with long-term physical and mental recovery. They often face complex paperwork and isolation after an accident. “People think that if you get compensation, everything is fine. But the injury affects your whole life and family,” a centre spokesperson said. The project provides professional counselling, therapy groups, and practical assistance to navigate the healthcare and legal systems. The goal is to help injured individuals regain independence and return to work or daily life. The HKWHC has served the community for over three decades, focusing on occupational health and safety.