The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) held a Social Service Partners Conference on 21 May 2014. The conference brought together 800 participants from a diverse network of partners, including Volunteer Welfare Organisations (VWOs), government agencies, community organisations, academics, media, corporations and young social service professionals. With the theme "Strengthening Partnerships", the conference discussed trends and directions for social services, and explored how different partners can work together to build a stronger Community of Support for those who require help.
Minister for Social and Family Development, Mr Chan Chun Sing said, "Our country is at a significant milestone as we approach our 50th year of independence. Amidst changing demographics and new economic challenges, we will build a "Community of Support" to care for all in need. We have much to do, much to do better and much to do together towards a caring Singapore. We will grow our social services, deepen our competencies and strengthen our networks to meet today's and tomorrow's needs".
The one-day conference also included a panel discussion involving Mr Hsieh Fu Hua (President of NCSS Board and Chairman of UOB), Mr Yew Teng Leong ( President of Rainbow Centre's Executive Board), Ms Wu Mei Ling (Executive Director of Students Care Service), and Dr Irene Ng (Associate Professor in the department of Social Work at the National University of Singapore).
Participants also exchanged ideas on trends, challenges and solutions on the topics "Supporting Vulnerable Families in Changing Times", "Coordinated Service Delivery through partnership" and "Building a Future-Ready Social Service Workforce".
