What are the actual staffing needs of the Social Welfare Department?

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Social Welfare Department's Staffing Needs Focus on Key Professional Roles

The Social Welfare Department (JKM) has a critical need for more specialized personnel, particularly child protection officers, psychology officers, and welfare officers, rather than a broad increase in contract staff. Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh has raised concerns that the proposed addition of 8,000 contract staff does not align with the department's actual operational requirements, which necessitate a greater focus on roles directly involved in investigation and assistance.
Emphasis on Child Protection Officers

A significant identified gap is the requirement for approximately 1,500 child protection officers. These officers are essential for investigating cases and ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children, a core mandate of the department. The current staffing levels are considered insufficient to adequately address the volume and complexity of child protection cases.
Need for Psychology and Welfare Officers

Beyond child protection, there is a stated need for more psychology officers and welfare officers. These professionals play crucial roles in assessing requests for assistance, providing psychological support, and managing the welfare of individuals and families in need. Their expertise is vital for the effective delivery of social welfare services and for conducting thorough investigations into aid applications.
Current Departmental Size and Proposed Increase

JKM currently employs a workforce of 6,000 individuals. The plan to introduce an additional 8,000 contract staff has been questioned as potentially misaligned with the department's core needs, especially when compared to the specific numbers of specialized officers deemed necessary. This proposed expansion is part of a larger government initiative to create 50,000 contract employment opportunities in the public sector for 2021.

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What are the actual staffing needs of the Social Welfare Department?

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