Approach in Tackling Homeless Cases

12 Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) how many homeless cases have been identified by the Ministry every year between 2005 and 2015; (a) whether there have been studies conducted to devise solutions to mitigate this issue; and (c) what is the Ministry's strategy and approach in tackling this problem.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Social and Family Development (Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim) (for the Minister for Social and Family Development): Madam, from 2005 to 2015, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) provided assistance and support to an average of 300 cases each year. Some of these families and individuals were able to return to their own homes or families. They may be provided with financial or other forms of assistance. For those who were destitute and lacking in family support and means to fend for themselves, MSF would typically extend housing support through the Welfare Homes and Transitional Shelters which we fund.

In 2014, MSF conducted a study on families in transitional housing to better understand the challenges and needs of homeless families. The study found that these families often experienced occurrences, such as divorce and financial difficulties. Many had sold their flats and spent their monies to clear debts or for other purposes prior to becoming homeless.

To help them regain housing stability, it is important for us to help them address their underlying issues, such as providing employment assistance and counselling to address marital and family issues. Linking the families with services, such as childcare and healthcare, can also strengthen their ability to cope and improve their employment and financial prospects. Social workers will also work with them to identify long-term housing options that they can work towards.

Homelessness is a complex issue and there are often no straightforward or quick solutions. MSF is committed to working with the Ministry of National Development, the Housing and Development Board and community organisations to identify and provide support to homeless families and individuals.

Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap (Aljunied): I thank the Parliamentary Secretary for the reply. Madam, I would just like to refer to part (a) of my question where I asked for the number of homeless cases per year. I would just like to know whether the Parliamentary Secretary can provide the numbers because I want to look at the pattern; whether there is an increase throughout the years or it has stabilised.

Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim: Madam, I have mentioned earlier that it is an average of 300. In fact, over the last three years or so, we have seen the numbers falling slightly from about 321 cases in 2013 to 296 cases last year.