Framework, one-stop hub among new initiatives to help charities strengthen governance, leadership

SINGAPORE – After the pandemic, suicide prevention centre Samaritans of Singapore revamped its operational model to extend its reach through additional training, outreach efforts and expanded programmes.

Its management worked to address governance and sustainability risks that might arise from its new approach, and it has since expanded its services and launched initiatives like Singapore’s first 24-hour crisis text messaging service in 2022, which supports more than 9,300 people annually.

In 2021, it also established the SOS Academy, which delivers more than 150 training sessions a year to over 3,000 professionals and community responders.

The work of the Samaritans highlights how effective leadership in the charity sector – through making tough calls, setting a clear direction and motivating staff – can make an impact in Singapore, said Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth David Neo on Oct 29.

Leadership in the charity sector is unique, he said, requiring strong governance and transparency to build trust with donors and the public. This ensures programmes touch lives, empower communities and create an impact, he added.

Speaking at the annual Charity Governance Conference at Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay hotel, Mr Neo announced three new initiatives to help charities like the Samaritans strengthen their leadership and governance.

A new framework will be published in early 2026 to help charities evaluate their practices. Currently, these organisations must consult numerous documents to identify examples of good practices across all levels of their charity.

The integrated Governance And Transparency Framework for charities was co-developed by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) and the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS).

Dr Caroline Lim, head of the Organisation and Leadership for Social Change Programme at SUSS, explained that many smaller charities often lack the resources needed to consult various documents and sources. The new framework aims to streamline their efforts by consolidating everything into a single resource, saving them time and effort, she added.

Mr Tanguy Lim, chief executive of Pro Bono SG, a charity that offers legal support, said one challenge commonly faced by charities is when board members bring their own interpretations of how to achieve positive outcomes. Frameworks like the new one, he said, can serve as an impartial guide to define good governance clearly.

“If you want to do good, it’s also important to know how to do good effectively,” he said.

The other initiatives announced at the conference are a new one-stop support hub for charities and a new leadership training programme.

Charities will be able to seek assistance or guidance on legal, financial and governance issues through a new dedicated space in Temasek Shophouse. Located in Dhoby Ghaut, the venue will offer consultations and workshops.

There, charities will be able to connect with partners like Pro Bono SG for legal support, and the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants for financial and accounting advisory support. More details will be announced later.

Temasek Shophouse general manager Yvonne Tay said that by bringing different types of professional services under one roof, it hopes to reduce the effort charities must expend in seeking the assistance they require.

To better support charity leaders in building strong governance and leadership, MCCY also launched the GovernWell: Excellence in Charity Leadership Training Programme on Oct 29. The four-module programme will be rolled out by the end of 2025 and already has more than 500 sign-ups.

This foundation training covers essential governance knowledge, ethics, fiduciary obligations, measuring impact and financial stewardship. The programme was developed in collaboration with partners like the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants, National Council of Social Service, Pro Bono SG, Singapore Institute of Directors and The Majurity Trust.