New initiatives respond to a task force’s 16 recommendations aimed at combating family violence.
SINGAPORE: The government is set to implement new measures to assist survivors of family violence, including an emergency response team, an online reporting channel, and stricter legislation for perpetrators. These initiatives stem from recommendations made by a task force dedicated to addressing family violence in Singapore.
The emergency response team will begin operations on April 1 next year and will provide 24/7 support. Minister of State for Social and Family Development, Sun Xueling, highlighted during a conference that the team will consist of personnel from the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) alongside police officers. This new team will have the authority to issue emergency protection orders, offering immediate relief to victims in crisis situations.
Currently, victims must apply for a personal protection order, which can be a lengthy process. Ms. Sun emphasized the importance of the new initiative: “With this new initiative, officers on site will be able to issue emergency protection orders that will provide immediate protection for victims.”
The Taskforce on Family Violence, established in February 2020, aimed to evaluate the family violence landscape in Singapore and propose effective solutions. Their report, released in September last year, outlined 16 recommendations focused on raising awareness, improving reporting mechanisms, enhancing survivor support, and holding perpetrators accountable.
One significant addition to the proposed initiatives is an online reporting channel for survivors, set to launch on December 30. Ms. Sun noted that this channel is crucial for victims who may be unable to verbally communicate their situation due to distress or danger.
The ministry has also bolstered hotline staffing to ensure that trained social workers are available to assist callers. Family violence specialist centres will be rebranded as protection specialist centres to reflect their broader mission, offering assistance not only to those with familial ties to their perpetrators but also to victims of sexual and intimate partner violence.
In addition to these changes, the Women’s Charter will be amended early next year to introduce harsher penalties for those who violate rehabilitation orders. Ms. Sun described family violence as a “serious issue” and asserted that stricter penalties would send a clear message that such behavior is unacceptable, regardless of context.
“These changes aim to better protect survivors and hold accountable those who cause harm while focusing on their rehabilitation,” Ms. Sun stated.
Addressing the Root Causes of Violence
While resources for survivors are being enhanced, challenges remain, particularly the reluctance of family members to report incidents. Ms. Sun pointed out that victims often hesitate to take action for fear of implicating their loved ones, leading to cycles of violence.
She emphasized the need for professional intervention for perpetrators, who may struggle with mental health issues, substance abuse, or anger management. “These challenges go beyond what a victim can address alone and often require professional help,” she said, encouraging bystanders to be vigilant and supportive.
Ms. Sun reiterated the importance of rehabilitating those who cause harm, stating, “It is equally important to address the rehabilitation of persons who have caused harm to prevent further violence and promote healthier relationships.”
Ben Ang, principal social worker at Thye Hua Kwan Family Services, supported these initiatives, acknowledging that those who inflict harm also require assistance. “The people who cause hurt are suffering as well, and they need critical help,” he said, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces for them to seek support.
