Alternatives to Public Rental Flats for Urgent Cases during Waiting Time

Ms Ng Ling Ling asked the Minister for National Development where applicants for flats under the Public Rental Scheme have circumstances that warrant urgent accommodation, what alternatives to public rental flats can the Ministry provide during their waiting time for allocation of a rental flat.

For approved applicants under the Public Rental Scheme, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) will expedite flat allocations for those with urgent housing needs, such as those who have medical conditions or are facing other exceptional circumstances.

Applicants who require interim accommodation while waiting for their public rental flat may approach Family Service Centres or Social Service Offices for a referral to one of six Transitional Shelters funded by the Ministry of Social and Family Development. These shelters provide temporary accommodation and onsite social work intervention. Persons in urgent need of accommodation can also call the MSF Hotline (1800-111-2222) for assistance.