Plans for Improving Employment Outcomes for Lower-income and ComLink+ Families

Mr Xie Yao Quan asked the Minister for Social and Family Development following the findings of the Ministry's Supporting Lower-Income Households Trends Report 2025, whether the Ministry has further strategies to help more adults in ComLink+ families secure and stay in good jobs.

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Minister for Social and Family Development in view of the findings from the Supporting Lower-Income Households Trends Report for 2025, what plans does the Ministry have to improve the employment outcomes for lower-income families, if any.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: Lower-income families face diverse challenges to stable employment, such as caregiving responsibilities, family functioning issues and lower education qualifications. These make it hard for them to hold down a regular job or attain a higher wage.

Social Service Offices, ComLink+ family coaches and Family Service Centre case workers journey with families to address these issues. This includes linking families with the Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) for employment assistance and social service agencies for other needs. Families receive training support under SkillsFuture and Workfare. Those that put in the effort and earn a better wage are further recognised with additional cash and CPF payouts under the ComLink+ Progress Package for Employment.

Beyond these, the Ministry of Social and Family Development is reviewing how we can provide more targeted employment support services. For example, we are partnering e2i and TOUCH Community Services to help more ComLink+ families. To prepare them for employment, we work to increase their motivation and build their skills. Following successful job placement, we help them manage work stressors and stay employed. We are also exploring additional financial support and incentives for jobseekers with lower education qualifications to upgrade their skills.

Ultimately, a whole-of-society effort is needed to help lower-income families achieve better employment outcomes. Community partners can help families address their barriers to employment, and employers can be more understanding and provide flexible work arrangements.