Ways to better support those with disabilities into adulthood being explored

More help for caregivers also under study, as family sizes shrink, population ages: PM

- Shermaine Ang

After graduating from special education (Sped) schools at 18, people with disabilities sometimes find it difficult to secure a job even though they want to work.

That is why the Government is looking at how to help them make a smoother transition to the workforce, and for those who want to continue their education to do so, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Oct 28.

The authorities are also studying how to provide more help for their caregivers, amid shrinking family sizes and an ageing population, he added.

Speaking at a dinner to mark the 60th anniversary of disability charity SPD, PM Wong said more needs to be done to help those with disabilities realise their full potential and lead independent lives, even as Singapore has achieved much in building a more inclusive society.

Smaller families than in the past means fewer people to share the burden of care, while the ageing population means caregivers have to prepare for changing needs as they and their loved ones with disabilities grow older, he added.

"That's why we are studying how we can give more help to caregivers and persons with disabilities, to enable them to plan for their needs, goals and aspirations, and to update these plans as their life stages and family circumstances change," he said at the event at Pan Pacific Singapore.

"We are also looking at ways to enhance and extend the range of support to enable persons with disabilities to continue to live independently in the community."