Forum: Family-centric approach in future care planning for those with disabilities
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We thank the writers of the letters “ Glass children are still overlooked in adulthood” More can be done for siblings of those with special needs
SG Enable recognises that siblings of persons with disabilities may take on greater caregiving responsibilities as their parents age, and play an invaluable role in offering companionship, continuity of care and encouragement to their loved ones with disabilities.
We are heartened by caregiver-led ground-up initiatives such as SibsUnite, which understand siblings’ needs and provide a safe and supportive community for them.
SG Enable has supported such efforts through the Caregiver Empowerment Fund and welcomes more caregivers to step forward, share their lived experiences and create peer support networks that others can draw strength from.
Looking ahead, we are taking a family-centric approach in future care planning for persons with disabilities, which considers the needs, aspirations and capacity of the family members supporting them. We encourage caregivers with children with disabilities to involve the children’s siblings in this process, so their roles and voices are considered from the start.
SG Enable will continue to partner government, educational, social service and community agencies, as well as caregiver support groups, to strengthen support for caregivers. Together, we can build an inclusive society where families of persons with disabilities are empowered to thrive.
Prema Govindan
Senior Director, Disability Support and Services Group
SG Enable
