Forum: Helping those with disabilities means more than having good job numbers

As someone living with cerebral palsy, I have been observing Singapore’s latest employment initiatives for people with disabilities (PWDs) with a mix of hope and critical reflection (Singapore task force outlines plans to help more people with disabilities find jobs, Sept 16).

The Government’s recent employment scheme targets six specific sectors: food and beverage services, retail trade, information and communications, health and social services, transport and storage, and financial and insurance services. While these efforts show promise, they may overlook deeper complexities in supporting PWDs.

The intention to increase employment rates is commendable. But job placement cannot be the sole measure of success. Workplace inclusion demands comprehensive support that addresses individual needs, provides meaningful accommodations, and recognises the diverse capabilities of PWDs. I fear the push for employment may sweep issues PWDs face under the rug in favour of nice numbers. 

Moreover, the push for employment carries a hidden risk. Some PWDs find working extremely challenging due to their specific conditions. There is dangerous potential for these initiatives to perpetuate a harmful narrative that suggests anyone not working is simply choosing not to try, intensifying existing stigmas surrounding disabilities.

The current financial support system presents its own set of challenges. Policies calculate eligibility based on household income, a method that fails to capture the complex economic realities of families with members with disabilities.

The system currently includes the income of all family members, including those who may have their own financial responsibilities.  

A more equitable solution would be to base support eligibility on the income of the primary caregiver. In my case, it is my father. My siblings, while loving and supportive, should not be expected to compromise their own life goals to give me financial support just because we live in the same house. This approach would more equitably account for the true financial impact of supporting a person with disabilities. 

My feedback comes from a place of hope, not criticism. Singapore has long been a regional leader, and this is an opportunity to lead by example by recognising that PWDs are not problems to be solved, but individuals with unique challenges and strengths.

More can be done to help those with disabilities beyond trying to improve employment statistics. If numbers are all we look at, the central issue remains: There is a lot the numbers leave out. 

Zachary Tay