Supporting one another to meet community needs

Ms Audrey Lee, Chairperson of the Silver Caregivers Co-op

Distinguished guests,

Caregivers and members of the Co-op,

Ladies and gentlemen,

1. Good evening to all of you. I would like to thank the Silver Caregivers Co-op for inviting me to join you this evening at your third Caregivers’ Celebration Dinner. The theme of “One Heart, One Community” reflects the personal commitment and unwavering dedication demonstrated by all of you as caregivers, and also the depth of your support for one another in your community.

2. Started in 2013, Silver Caregivers Co-op has over 200 members, and provides a range of services, including workshops, courses and talks, to prepare and guide caregivers in their role.

One Heart, One Community

3. As Singapore’s population continues to age, the demand for caregiving will increase in tandem. Caregivers need to work tirelessly and selflessly to provide the best care for their loved ones and those in need. According to research, caregivers are at high risk of fatigue, and may lose their motivation to care due to the demands of their caregiving roles. It is therefore, all the more important for us to give caregivers the support they need, and recognise their contributions to society.

Recognising our caregivers

4. There are many caregivers in Singapore who have carried out their roles with strength, resilience and compassion. Take Madam Jothy for example. For the last 10 years, Madam Jothy has been faithfully taking care of her husband, who is a wheelchair user, and an amputee with multiple medical conditions. Although Madam Jothy herself, suffers from knee problems, she remains dedicated to her role as a caregiver.

5. I would like to extend my appreciation to all caregivers, award winners and members of the Co-op. Your contributions exemplify the spirit of SG Cares, a national movement to support the goodwill of Singaporeans, to better help those in need. Through your actions, I hope many others will be inspired to step forward and look out for one another, so that no one is left behind.

6. At MCCY, we recognise the value of co-operatives, which are based on the principles of self-help and mutual assistance, in meeting the needs of our community. Let us encourage and support one another to do good together, so that we can build a more inclusive and caring society. Together, we can show that Singapore, though small in size, is a nation with a big heart.

7. Thank you, and have an enjoyable evening!