A study of the community work approaches of family service centres in Singapore

Abstract

Family Service Centres (FSCs) in Singapore are required by government to provide support to families in specified localities, with two approaches to promoting family social well-being. These approaches are to develop accessible, relevant services and to participate in community building with community organisations and residents. For this study FSC directors, key players in FSCs, were asked to examine community work activities relevant to each approach, identifying those appropriate for use in FSCs and those undertaken. Findings showed that respondents prioritised the activities contributing to the development of the agency and its services. Few respondents gave equal priority to activities contributing to community-building and the involvement of community residents. These were from longer established centres and had management committees with a mixed membership including people experienced in community-based work. It is recommended that FSCs be encouraged through training, consultation and financial incentives to give greater priority to the community building approach.