MCYS & NCSS

SOCIAL SERVICES IN SINGAPORE

The goal of social services in Singapore is to promote the well-being of people and communities. It seeks
to help individuals to be self-sufficient and less dependent and restores individuals, families or communities
to successful functioning within society. The services include:

• Children, Youth & Family Services
• Community Health Services
• Disability Services
• Elderly Services

What is a VWO?

Our professionals serve the community through Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWOs). A VWO is an
organisation that:

 

• promotes and provides social and community services in financial, emotional, educational, health and
social aid and support;
• caters for those in need, distress or at-risk and helps the disadvantaged to be independent; and
• is non-profit making.

There are about 500 VWOs in Singapore set up by community groups, religious bodies and
independent organisations.

VWOs’ Partners

VWOs partner with the following groups:

• Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) – Sets the policy and provides some of the
resources and the infrastructure for the provision of services.

• National Council of Social Service (NCSS) - Provides leadership in the social service sector through
standards, capability building and resource mobilisation.
• Community Development Councils (CDCs) – Act as an avenue to reach the needy in the community for the
provision of financial assistance and job search.

• Self-Help Groups – Assist to uplift of the community through education assistance for the young and job
reskilling for adults.