'It was scary living on my own'

Youth from children's homes get support to transition to independent living in adulthood

- Gabrielle Chan

Children's homes have in recent years been helping to ease the transition of youth to independent living as they grow older.

At least three homes have programmes to support these youth in areas like finding housing and jobs, and imparting life skills as they approach their late teens and move into adulthood.

Nearly 600 children and young people live in residential and youth homes in Singapore.

In January, Chen Su Lan Methodist Children's Home started The Hearts Programme for those aged 13 and above, to prepare them for the time when they will move out.

Currently, there are 10 young people in this programme who receive personalised transition plans, life skills training and housing assistance. Social workers will follow up with them for up to two years, along with volunteers who provide informal support.

In July, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) announced a scheme to grant more support, including financial assistance, to young people aged 17 to 21, for whom reunification with their family is not possible. Leaving the care system at the age of 21 often means finding a new place to live, and while reunification with family is the ideal outcome, it is not always possible, it said.

Some young people are unable to be reunited with their families for reasons such as the death or incarceration of their parents.

About 30 young people will benefit annually from the scheme, which is for those enrolled in full-time studies, training, internships or national service.

For a start, the scheme will be provided by Chen Su Lan Methodist Children's Home; Melrose Home, which is run by the Children's Aid Society; and Singapore Boys' Hostel.