12 Surprising Facts About Foster Parents in Singapore

Foster Parents: A Lifeline for Children in Need

Foster parents provide a safe and loving home for children who have been removed from their families due to abuse, neglect, or other circumstances. In Singapore, there are an estimated 1,500 foster families caring for nearly 3,000 children.

12 Key Facts About Foster Parents in Singapore:

1. 1,500: The number of registered foster families in Singapore.
2. 3,000: The approximate number of children in foster care in Singapore.
3. 5-18: The typical age range of children in foster care.
4. 15%: The percentage of foster children who are reunited with their families.
5. 55%: The percentage of foster children who are adopted.
6. 30%: The percentage of foster children who remain in care until they turn 18.
7. $750: The monthly allowance provided to foster families for each child in their care.
8. $2,250: The one-time payment provided to foster families when they first take a child into their care.
9. 10-12 hours: The average number of hours per week that foster parents spend on training and support activities.
10. 24/7: The support that foster parents receive from the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF).
11. Foster Parent Training: Foster parents are required to complete a comprehensive training program before they can be licensed.
12. Foster Parent Support: Foster parents receive ongoing support from a team of social workers, psychologists, and other professionals.

The Role of Foster Parents

Foster parents play a vital role in the lives of children in care. They provide these children with a safe, stable, and loving home where they can thrive. Foster parents help children to develop healthy relationships, learn new skills, and build a positive self-esteem.

How to Become a Foster Parent in Singapore

If you are interested in becoming a foster parent in Singapore, you must first meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Be a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.
• Have a stable income and a home that is suitable for fostering.
• Be physically and mentally healthy.
• Have a strong support system.
• Have no criminal record.
• Be willing to undergo a background check.

Once you meet the basic requirements, you can apply to become a foster parent through the MSF. The application process involves submitting a written application, providing references, and undergoing a home study.

Benefits of Fostering

Fostering can be a rewarding experience for both the foster parents and the children. Foster parents have the opportunity to make a real difference in the life of a child. They can provide a child with a safe and loving home, help them to develop healthy relationships, and learn new skills.

Challenges of Fostering

Fostering can also be challenging. Foster parents may have to deal with difficult behaviors, such as aggression, withdrawal, or attachment problems. They may also have to deal with the child's parents or other family members.

Support for Foster Parents

Foster parents receive ongoing support from the MSF. This support includes:

• Training: Foster parents are required to complete a comprehensive training program before they can be licensed.
• Support groups: Foster parents can connect with other foster parents through support groups.
• Social workers: Foster parents have access to social workers who can provide them with guidance and support.
• Psychologists: Foster parents can also access psychologists who can help them to deal with the challenges of fostering.

Conclusion

Foster parents play a vital role in the lives of children in care. They provide these children with a safe, stable, and loving home where they can thrive. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, please contact the MSF for more information.

Additional Information

• Ministry of Social and Family Development
• Foster Care in Singapore
• National Foster Care Association