THERE has been a surge in the number of people seeking help from the 36 family service centres (FSCs) across Singapore in recent months because of the economic crisis and social workers are feeling the strain.

To cope with the extra workload, the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) is trying to recruit more social workers and is hoping to get retired social workers or those who have left the profession to care for their young children to help out, said NCSS chief executive officer Ang Bee Lian on Friday.

Ms Ang also promised FSCs additional funding, if the need arises.

She added: 'We will listen to the ground and see what kind of new services are needed in this tough economic times. We also plan to train social workers to increase their awareness of the issues involved and enhance their skills to help their clients cope with their challenges.'

The NCSS has also printed thousands of brochures to tell Singapore where to seek help if they need it.