PUBLISHED
June 13, 2023
Understanding the Effects of the Child Support Model: Experiences of Children and Families from Low-Income Backgrounds
Authors:
Heidi Layne, Kenneth Poon, Mardiana bte Abu Bakar, Mercy Jesuvadian, Ng Ee Lynn, Phoon Chew Ping, Xie Huichao
Source:
NTUC First Campus Co-operative Limited
Type:
Internal Evaluation Studies
Subjects:
Child Support Model
Developmental disparities
Experiences of parents
Keywords:
Assistance
Children well-being
Learning outcomes
Low-income
Support
Abstract:
Research indicates a rise in the number of low-income families in Singapore. This is particularly worrisome as children from impoverished backgrounds face developmental disparities compared to their peers. Consequently, timely access to appropriate support and high-quality education becomes increasingly crucial to mitigate underachievement. In response to this alarming trend, NTUC First Campus introduced the Child Support Model (CSM) in 2016. The CSM aims to assist children from vulnerable, lower-income families, as well as those who require additional learning support, by offering comprehensive financial, social, and educational assistance. This study assesses the impact of the CSM on the well-being and learning outcomes of children from low-income families. The findings indicate that the CSM effectively provides personalised and culturally relevant education, empowers families, fosters communication and collaboration among stakeholders, and delivers responsive support during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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