Challenges in social service: Manpower shortage, service integration

Challenges in social service: Manpower shortage, service integration

Intergration of services and developing a new generation of social service professionals, such as social workers and psychologists, are some challenges the sector will face in the future, said Minister for Social and Family Development Chan Chun Sing.

One major challenge is the shortage of manpower.

According to the Ministry of Social and Family Development, there is an annual shortfall of about 150 social workers.

In terms of integration, agencies need to work together to "provide holistic help" to those in need as they often need help in more than one area, reported The Straits Times online.

"There is much more that we need to do, and much more that we can do," said the minister, who was the guest of honour at an inaugural symposium organised by Ang Mo Kio Family Service Centres and Singapore Institute of Management University on Thursday.

About 200 social service professionals took part in the symposium, which aims to provide a platform for those in the industry to discuss emerging trends and challenges and to share best practices.

The ministry is also looking at implementing a national database for the social service sector. Through this, the Government aims to facilitate unhindered delivery of social services to those in need, even if they were to move from one part of the city to another.


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