Singapore expands disability services with 880 new training places and independent-living pilots

The Singapore government will add 880 places across day activity centres (DACs) and sheltered workshops (SWs) from 2026 to 2027 to cater to the demand for adult disability services. The expansion comprises 520 DAC places and 360 SW places, to be rolled out progressively across the island. DACs support adults who cannot work through activities and daily living skills training, while sheltered workshops provide structured work-skills training and job support for those not ready for open employment.

Subsidies for disability services will increase from July 2026 by up to 15% for residential services and 10% for community services. The per capita income threshold for subsidies will also be raised to include households earning S$3,601 to S$4,800 per person, a change expected to provide financial relief for about 3,800 users.

To support community living, the Enabled Living Programme (ELP) began in December 2025, pairing eligible adults with disabilities in designated public rental flats and providing support such as supervision, financial guidance and coaching on daily living and social skills. ELP operates at five sites: Ang Mo Kio, Bedok North, Bukit Merah, Jurong West and Woodlands. In addition, a Home Support Programme (HSP) pilot will start in the second half of 2026 for adults living at home near those sites. Together, ELP and HSP can serve up to 250 clients.

For long-term care planning, the Community Chest will sponsor S$5,000 for lower- and middle-income caregivers to open a Special Needs Trust account. From 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2031, eligible families with per capita income of up to S$3,600 can also receive dollar-for-dollar matching top-ups capped at S$10,000.

Sources:

- More places in sheltered workshops, independent living pilot started for people with disabilities

- MSF Committee of Supply 2026: Advancing an Inclusive Singapore where Everyone Thrives