Changes to Child Protection Policy, Procedures or Practices In Response to 2024 Domestic Violence Trends Report

Assoc Prof Razwana Begum Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) what are the key lessons learned from the September 2024 Domestic Violence Trends Report; and (b) what changes will be made to existing child protection policy, procedure or practice in response to those lessons.

The Ministry of Social and Family Development's (MSF's) Domestic Violence Trends Report highlights the importance of raising awareness about domestic violence and intervening early to prevent such cases from escalating into more severe situations.

First, MSF will continue to equip professionals in preschools, schools, healthcare institutions and social service agencies to identify and report suspected child abuse for early intervention.

Second, we will continue to review our laws to enhance protection for survivors. For instance, the Women's Charter was amended in 2023 to strengthen protection for survivors of family violence, including children. Enhancements include the new Stay Away and No Contact Orders to prohibit perpetrators of family violence from being in the vicinity of the survivor and from visiting or communicating with the survivor, respectively. The amendments came into force on 2 January 2025.

Third, we will collaborate with our community partners to review and enhance protocols for supporting families with child protection concerns.