Recognition of Caregivers' Contributions and Government's Care for Their Well-being

Mr Seah Kian Peng asked the Minister for Health in view of the findings of the 2018 Quality of Life of Caregivers Study and the earlier announcement on enhancements to the Home Caregiving Grant, whether he can provide more details or updates on recognising caregivers' contributions and the Government's care for their well-being.

Earlier this year, the Government released a range of initiatives as part of the White Paper for Singapore Women’s Development, that addresses the findings from the 2018 Qualify of Life of Caregivers study. To recognise caregivers’ contributions and reduce caregiving costs, the Government announced enhancement of the Home Caregiving Grant. The Government will also provide more options to help caregivers take time off for self-care. The Household Services Scheme will be expanded to provide elder-minding and other part-time household services. MOH is also reviewing respite care services for seniors to improve availability and accessibility.

To better care for the well-being of caregivers, the Government is also working with partners to launch community-based peer support networks. Under the Women’s Integration Network (WIN) Caregivers Network pilot, caregivers of persons with mental health conditions can tap on peer support networks and receive more sustained socio-emotional support. Launched by the People’s Association in partnership with the National Council of Social Services and Caregivers Alliance Limited, the peer support networks will start in six locations, such as Nee Soon East and Bukit Gombak, and will be expanded over time.

In August this year, MSF launched the Enabling Masterplan 2030 covering various recommendations for persons with disabilities and their caregivers. One key initiative is the Enabling Services Hubs (ESHs) which will link adult persons with disabilities and their caregivers to appropriate support and services such as respite care.

A whole-of-society effort is needed to recognise and support our caregivers. Employers can support our caregivers by adopting best practices under the Tripartite Standards on Flexible Workplace Arrangements and on Unpaid Leave for Unexpected Care Needs. This will enable employees to better manage both their work and personal needs. Given the importance of caregivers, next year’s President’s Challenge will focus on "Caring for Caregivers".