In early July, our Officer-in-charge (Development), Mr. Alvin Chung, joined a delegation formed by colleagues from the Hong Kong Council of Social Service (HKCSS), Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups to participate in the biennial Social Service Summit hosted by the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) in Singapore.
The Summit featured a series of thematic presentations and interactive activities that delved into topics such as service development, talent cultivation, and the application of technology. It also showcased successful examples of how Singapore integrates innovation and technology into social services. The event brought together over a thousand participants from local and various countries and regions, facilitating vibrant exchanges on integrating service delivery and technology. Delegates explored how social service organizations can leverage funding and technological tools to drive innovation, and reflected on how digital advancements may shape the future of the social service sector, a truly eye-opening experience.
The Hong Kong delegation also met with the senior leadership of NCSS to exchange insights on service development in both Hong Kong and Singapore. They explored potential directions for deeper collaboration and future exchanges. Coinciding with Singapore’s 60th anniversary of independence, NCSS announced the launch of its SG60 Grant Initiative, which will provide funding support to eligible service organizations to enhance service quality and promote innovation.
In addition to participating in the Summit, the delegation visited several prominent social service organizations in Singapore, including:
- The Foundry: Established by The Majurity Trust, this is an incubation hub that supports and nurtures early-stage social service organizations, helping them build capacity to address social issues through innovation.
- New Hope Community Services: Delegates visited its latest housing initiative, the Single Room Shared Facilities (SRSF) project, designed specifically for low-income single individuals aged 35 and above, a forward-thinking model of social housing.
- TOUCH Community Services: Shared its internal talent development and job-rotation strategies, encouraging staff to explore diverse career paths and transcend traditional departmental boundaries.
- SHINE Children and Youth Services: Introduced the concept of integrating social work and technology by creating a new role - Social Work Technologist, to lead the digital transformation of social services.
- Fei Yue Community Services: Shared its journey in digitalizing social service delivery and the challenges encountered, offering valuable insights and reflections.
Additionally, our team visited AWARE Singapore, where we gained an in-depth understanding of their gender advocacy work, particularly the challenges and strategies surrounding their women’s helpline and legal support services. They also shared their digital transformation initiatives implemented during the pandemic.
This study visit deepened our appreciation of the potential for innovation in social services and the importance of cross-regional learning. It also inspired new thinking in areas such as service design, organizational development, and digital transformation. Looking ahead, we hope to continue fostering cross-boundary collaboration, co-creating new possibilities, and working together to advance the sustainable development of the social service sector.