Money, housing and isolation the biggest struggles for youth leaving children's homes: Study

Straits Times

5 days ago

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Singapore has about 500 children in 19 residential homes. While most reunite with their families by the age of 21, around 30 are unable to do so each year.
SINGAPORE - Earning money and finding a place to live are among the biggest concerns that young adults have when they age out of children's homes, according to a new report by two non-profit organisations.
Released on July 23, the study by the Children's Aid Society (CAS) and Quantedge Foundation (Singapore) found that many young people also felt lonely after leaving the home, and had difficulties communicating and resolving conflict with housemates.
The majority had, at most, ITE-level qualifications and a median monthly income of $800. The study found that many did not qualify for public housing due to age or marital status, while private rental was unaffordable. Researchers surveyed 10 residents from Melrose Home, which is run by CAS, and spoke to five CAS staff.
Understanding the needs of such young people is crucial to offering better support, said Education Minister and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration Desmond Lee, who was the guest of honour at the study's launch at Capital Tower.
Singapore has about 500 children in 19 residential homes. While most reunite with their families by the age of 21 – when they are required to leave the home – around 30 are unable to do so each year.
For this group, the transition to independent living means they have to juggle education, finances, housing and the demands of living alone, often with limited support.
Trauma is often a complicating factor. Residents at Melrose Home have an average Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) score of six out of 10 – or six potentially traumatic events in their lifetime.
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In contrast, a 2020 study found that 63.9 per cent of Singaporeans report at least one ACE, and only 13 per cent have experienced three or more in their lifetime.
In July 2024, the Ministry of Social and Family Development announced a scheme to provide greater support – including financial assistance – to young people aged 17 to 21 in children's homes who cannot go back to their families.
These include those in school, undergoing training or internships, or serving national service. The support continues until they complete higher education or secure full-time employment.
'Strengthening our partnerships is key to amplifying and sustaining the impact of our good work,' said Mr Lee. 'The study's findings show that the journey of care leavers is rarely straightforward, and we need a sustained effort across all of society to support them to overcome the challenges they face.'
Public agencies, community groups and philanthropic organisations can build on the findings to deepen collaboration. Businesses can provide funding, while social service agencies can match youth with seniors in co-living arrangements, Mr Lee suggested.
Children's homes have also been stepping up support for these young people. In October 2024, The Straits Times reported that
several homes had launched programmes to help youth secure jobs, housing and life skills.
These include The Hearts Programme by Chen Su Lan Methodist Children's Home, which offers personalised transition plans, life skills training and housing assistance for those aged 13 and above.
Education Minister Desmond Lee viewing a gallery at the launch of the study at Capital Tower on July 23. Also pictured with him is Children's Aid Society executive director Alvin Goh (foreground), and Quantedge Foundation CEO Xie Yao Quan (background).
ST PHOTO: GAVIN FOO
Another such initiative is Thrive21+, run by CAS, which includes a transitional housing programme that was the basis for the new study.
Launched in 2022, the three-year programme supports youth aged 17 and above as they prepare to leave care. It includes a year of in-home preparation, including financial management and housekeeping, followed by two years of support after they move out.
Four people are currently in the programme, while four others have completed it.
The study found that youth in CAS' housing programme made improvements in 14 out of 15 life skills categories, including money management, health, housing and legal knowledge.
CAS executive director Alvin Goh said that when the housing programme was first launched, people hesitate to rent to four boys from a children's home. But once housing was secured, the boys could focus on school, work and reconnecting with their communities.
Stable housing is just the beginning, Mr Goh said, adding that social capital is of equal importance. This includes having a support system and a sense of belonging.
'For that to happen, consistent support is key, so that the progress made during care doesn't unravel the moment they leave,' he said.