Number of Ex-offenders Benefiting from Uplifting Employment Credit

Mr Patrick Tay Teck Guan asked the Minister for Manpower (a) how many ex-offenders have benefited from the Uplifting Employment Credit (UEC) since it was implemented in April 2023; (b) whether UEC is on track to meet its target of benefiting 3,000 ex-offenders annually; and (c) whether the Ministry plans to continue the UEC after December 2025.

More than 1,500 ex-offenders hired between April and December 2023 have benefited from the Uplifting Employment Credit (UEC) since it was implemented. The take-up for 2024 is not available yet. The figure of 3,000 cited by the Member was a projection based on data available when the scheme was introduced rather than a target, as the actual number of ex-offender beneficiaries depends on factors such as the number of inmates released in each year. Yellow Ribbon Singapore will continue to raise awareness of the UEC. More details about our plans for the UEC will be shared at Budget and Committee of Supply 2025.