Infant Care and Childcare Assistance on Weekends for Parents on Shift Work and Little Family Support

Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) whether the Ministry can provide support for more infant care and childcare assistance on the weekends to cater to parents with little family support and who are on shift work or who may need to deal with family emergencies; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider setting up a scheme for part-time nannies, such as homemakers, to provide such care services.

There are currently paid and community-based options available to parents who require caregiving support for their infants and children on weekends. These include babysitting services and playgroup and enrichment classes conducted at Community Clubs/Centres on Saturday mornings.