Singapore Budget 2014: New programme for parents considering divorce to be introduced

A new programme for parents thinking about divorce will be introduced, to ensure that their children's needs are considered before divorce proceedings. -- ST FILE PHOTO: TERENCE TAN
A new programme for parents thinking about divorce will be introduced, to ensure that their children's needs are considered before divorce proceedings. -- ST FILE PHOTO: TERENCE TAN

A new programme for parents thinking about divorce will be introduced, to ensure that their children's needs are considered before divorce proceedings.

The programme will include components where parents understand the importance of positive co-parenting and the negative effects of divorces, said Parliamentary Secretary for Social and Family Development Low Yen Ling in Parliament on Thursday. Her ministry and the Law Ministry will work together to set up the programme.

"The breakdown of a marriage can be traumatic, especially for the child," said Ms Low. The child is often caught in between the divorcing couple and his welfare is adversely affected, she added.

For children whose parents are going through or have completed divorce proceedings, support programmes will be expanded to help them cope with their feelings. Other programmes to help parents overcome their co-parenting difficulties will also be launched.

Ms Low said her ministry will work with the social service sector to raise the capability and capacity of agencies handling divorce-related issues. More details will be announced later this year.

Since 2007, there are about 7,000 divorces and more than 8,000 children affected each year.

Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.