Workers' Party Launches Major Caregiver Support Initiative in Singapore
The Workers' Party launches comprehensive caregiver support initiative, aiming to gather insights from 600 caregivers and develop evidence-based policy proposals for Singapore's support systems.
Workers' Party leaders announce new caregiver support initiative at party headquarters
The Workers' Party (WP) has launched a comprehensive initiative to gather insights from Singapore's caregivers, aiming to strengthen the nation's support systems and develop evidence-based policy proposals.
Ambitious Data Collection Campaign
The 'Caregivers' Wishes' scheme, unveiled on World Mental Health Day (October 10), targets feedback from at least 600 caregivers by the end of October. This initiative, which aligns with Singapore's growing focus on community development and social impact, will analyze challenges faced by caregivers across four key groups:
- Elderly care and dementia support
- Neurodevelopmental disorders and intellectual disability care
- Physical disability and medical condition management
- Mental health support
Leadership and Implementation
Dr. Ong Lue Ping, a clinical psychologist at the Institute of Mental Health and former WP candidate, leads this initiative. The project demonstrates Singapore's commitment to strengthening social infrastructure, similar to other national development initiatives.
Parliamentary Impact and Policy Development
Sengkang GRC MP He Ting Ru emphasized that caregiver support represents a priority area for WP this term. The party, which now has its largest-ever contingent of 12 MPs, has consistently advocated for caregiver issues in Parliament. This aligns with Singapore's broader initiatives to enhance social support systems.
"Beyond financial support, it's very important to deeply understand and learn what the needs of caregivers are, and how we can better leverage the strengths each informal caregiver brings to our families, society, and country," stated MP He Ting Ru.
Future Implications
The initiative's findings, expected to be published next year, will inform policy recommendations and parliamentary discussions. WP's manifesto includes proposals such as tiered payouts for those reducing work hours to provide family care, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to addressing caregiver challenges in Singapore's evolving social landscape.
Wei-Ling Tan
Tech and economy specialist, covering innovation in Southeast Asia from Singapore for both English-language and regional media outlets.