Shared database for social service sector to improve help rendered

To improve on how help is rendered, the social service sector will set up a common database which will allow different help agencies to share information.

Such a database will mean that those seeking help will not need to repeat information about their circumstances at every agency they are referred to, said Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Chan Chun Sing at the annual National Council of Social Service Members Conference on Thursday.

It will also enable the agencies - such as Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWOs) - to be more efficient through closer coordination and better manage cases which are expected to become more complex, said Mr Chan, who outlined some of the key challenges faced by the sector at the conference.

"People also expect to be helped by any agency they approach. They do not want to repeat their story, even if the help involves multiple agencies. This means the first agency must work with the others at the back end," he said.