Expanding Definition of Disability to Include Those with Certifiable Mental Health Conditions

Mr Ong Hua Han asked the Minister for Social and Family Development when will the definition of disability for access to programmes, such as Open Door under SG Enable, be expanded to include those with certifiable mental health conditions, in order to align the protected characteristic of mental health in the upcoming workplace fairness legislation.

Both disability and mental health conditions are protected characteristics in the upcoming workplace fairness legislation because they are some of the more commonly reported forms of workplace discrimination. However, persons with disabilities and persons with mental health conditions receive different types of employment support that cater to their different needs.

The support for individuals with mental health conditions is focused on their recovery and helping them to cope with their conditions. The Government has a comprehensive approach to support persons with mental health conditions. The Ministry of Health (MOH) has been working with various agencies to promote mental health and upstream prevention; improved early detection, intervention and management; and expand health, social and community support services. Persons with mental health conditions who require employment assistance can approach the Job Club under the Institute of Mental Health, the Singapore Association for Mental Health and the Singapore Anglican Community Services. These organisations provide support, such as job placement, post-employment follow-up and training in conflict resolution and stress management.