Benefits Given to Unwed Mothers

Mrs Lina Chiam asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) what are the benefits given by the Government to unwed mothers that are in line with those given to married mothers; (b) what are the other benefits that are not accorded to unwed mothers; and (c) whether the Ministry has considered any future plans to help unwed mothers.

The Government provides support and benefits for the care and development of our children, regardless of whether their mothers are married or not. Examples include benefits linked to childcare, child development, education and healthcare. The table below lists some of these benefits.

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Benefits that are intended to support marriages and births within the context of families are given only to married mothers. The table below lists these benefits.

Page: 167

All policies are subject to regular review to ensure currency and relevance.