Debated in Parliament on 21 Apr 2023.
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for National Development what accommodation options does HDB provide for persons with disabilities in (i) public rental housing and (ii) new BTO developments, including flexi apartments.
The Housing and Development Board (HDB) estates and precincts are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all residents. All new public housing developments, including rental and Build-To-Order flats, are designed in compliance with the Building and Construction Authority's prevailing Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment, which includes requirements on minimum accessibility provisions for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). Universal Design principles and features, such as barrier-free routes and ramps, are also incorporated in new public housing developments to create inclusive environments.
Apart from infrastructural support, PwDs living in HDB flats can also access home-based care services if needed, such as the Home Personal Care service for those who require support with their daily needs.
Government agencies continue to actively study options to support PwDs and forge a more inclusive Singapore. Under the Enabling Masterplan 2030, a task force comprising Government agencies, disability social service agencies (SSAs) and PwDs has been formed to look into developing new community living models for PwDs, including those that may be sited in HDB estates. The task force aims to understand the needs and wishes of PwDs and their families, and will recommend alternative housing and care models to enable more PwDs to live and participate in the community. The task force will release its recommendations later this year after it concludes. Meanwhile, HDB will also continue to work with disability SSAs and other agencies to support PwDs with their housing needs as far as possible.
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