After graduating from special school, Mr Shawn Lin, who has Down syndrome, found himself at a loss of a familiar routine.
The 34-year-old spent most of his days at home watching television shows to pass time. This went on for eight years and he gradually became isolated from the community until he was introduced to the Enabling Services Hub (ESH).
The first ESH, located at Tampines West Community Club, was officially launched on 14 August 2023 by SPD and SG Enable.
It aims to provide easier access to community activities and courses for residents with disabilities and their loved ones who are living in the region.
Some of the activities offered at ESH@Tampines include low-impact aerobics, brisk walking, arts and crafts workshops, respite services as well as money management and digital skills courses.
The ESH also hopes to foster a more inclusive neighbourhood culture through working with community partners such as libraries and schools to bring these activities closer to home for persons with disabilities.
SPD is the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and SG Enable’s first ESH partner.
As one of the early intervention providers in Tampines and Bedok, SPD aims to build on its networks to engage and strengthen support for residents with disabilities and their families through the ESH.
“Through the ESH, we hope to offer an alternative service delivery and engagement option for people with disabilities and their families who are not actively enrolled in care or vocational services.
“In addition, the ESH serves as an important touchpoint in addressing the concerns about the quality of life of persons with disabilities and the receiving of respite or support for their caregivers,” said Mr Abhimanyau Pal, Chief Executive Officer, SPD.
After enrolling in the ESH in June, Shawn is now more meaningfully engaged. He is picking up art and craft skills, while also dedicating time to help out at a nearby library weekly.
His mother Mdm Sharon Yew is heartened to see Shawn occupying his time fruitfully at the ESH, and she hopes to use this time to recharge and rest.
It is her hope that Shawn will be able to hone his life skills such as cooking and money management at the ESH in time to come.
To find out more about the ESH, please visit https://spd.org.sg/enabling-services-hub/.