Small Steps, Great Journey

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1 A joint newsletter of A n g l i c a n S e r v i c e s E n g a g i n g T h e C o m m u n i t y Small Steps, Great Journey Singapore Anglican Community Services Psychiatric Services celebrates 30 years of serving the community Matthew 17:20 reads, Jesus replied, Because you have so little faith. Truly, I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to the mountain, Move from here to there, and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. Indeed, nothing is impossible with God. Cake-cutting ceremony by Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) Psychiatric Services pioneers as well as SACS Board and Management Staff at the Thanksgiving Dinner held on 15 January From left to right: Mr. Steven Ting, Head, Psychiatric Services, SACS; Dr. Arthur Chern, Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), SACS and St. Andrew s Mission Hospital (SAMH); Mr. Keith Chua, Vice-President, SACS Board; The Right Reverend Rennis Ponniah, President, SACS and SAMH; Dr. Jimmy How, Former Chairman, Singapore Anglican Welfare Council (SAWC); Mr. Edward D Silva, Member, SACS Board; Dr. Steven Lim Hoon Chin, Member, SACS Board; Bishop John Chew, Former President, SACS and SAMH; Mr. Heng Kok Chiang, Honourary Vice Treasurer, SACS Board; and The Venerable Wong Tak Meng, Member, SACS Board. The ministry of Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) started with a simple step of FAITH, sowing HOPE among the sick and needy, and bringing the LOVE of God to the community marks SACS 30 th year of ministering to persons with mental health issues, regardless of ethnicity or creed. As we celebrate the small steps taken in 1986 by a group of pioneers led by Dr. Jimmy How, former Chairman of Singapore Anglican Welfare Council, who were led by the Lord to start a ministry for individuals with mental health issues, we are humbly reminded that many of God s initiatives begin with a small step of faith. And when one is ready and willing to step out in faith, He will give the increase. From left to right: Dr. Loh Yik Hin, CEO, St. Andrew s Community Hospital; Dr. Arthur Chern, Group CEO, SACS and SAMH and Mr. Steven Ting, Head, Psychiatric Services, SACS holding up the commemorative booklet which documents the milestones of SACS Psychiatric Services over the past 30 years. Staff members from the Hougang Care Centre (HCC) and Community Rehabilitation and Support Services (CRSS) did a short skit on how the SACS Psychiatric Services helped a person with mental health issues on her recovery journey. July 2016 MCI (P) 004/06/2016 SACS started its psychiatric services in 1986 with less than 10 staff at its sheltered workshop which provided skills training and job opportunities for persons with mental health issues. Through the last 30 years, God has blessed the work of our hands and enabled us to grow His ministry to one with more than 150 staff members who provide a continuum of care to more than 2,000 persons with mental health issues annually through six service centres: Residential and Day Rehabilitation Services: Hougang Care Centre (HCC) and Simei Care Centre (SCC) started to provide residential and day rehabilitation services for persons with mental health issues in 2002 and 2005 respectively. 1

2 Community Rehabilitation and Support Services (CRSS): CRSS was initiated in 2006 to ensure that our clients and caregivers have access to support and ready help in their homes. The first CRSS located at Bukit Batok was officially opened in 2010, followed by the opening of CRSS at Pasir Ris in 2011 and CRSS at Yishun in Staff members at CRSS provide counselling, training and support through home visits, so that clients are cared for in an environment where they feel secure. Committed to improving the lives of persons with mental health issues, SACS continuously seeks to upgrade and expand our services to meet the needs of the community. SACS was the first Asian mental health organisation to receive accreditation for three years from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) in Since then, SACS has also been re-accredited in 2012 and Through accreditation, CARF assists service providers in improving the quality of their services and meeting internationally recognised organisational and programme standards. This is a testimony of the efforts and dedication of our care teams in ensuring programmes are conducted with our clients and their recovery as focus. Employment Support Services (ESS): ESS was inaugurated in 2010 to provide employment services to help persons recovering from mental health issues seek sustained employment in the competitive job market. This involves our employment specialists working together with mental health care specialists to provide the necessary medical and social support as well as working with employers to create conducive working environment for our clients. ESS also works closely with SACS Social Enterprises, namely Something Old Something New, Mother and Child Project and Members Own Social Enterprise and Services, to provide clients with training and employment opportunities. Sheltered Home for Persons in Mental Health Recovery The work of SACS Psychiatric Services has received affirmation from the Ministry of Health. It has recently appointed SACS to operate a sheltered home for persons in mental health recovery at Race Course Road. This service offers temporary accommodation to persons who are recovering from mental health issues and are ready to return to the community. Expected to be ready in the third quarter of 2017, the Home will have 60 beds for adults and 20 beds for youths. SACS will operate a sheltered home for persons in mental health recovery at Race Course Road, targeted to be operational in the third quarter of Milest The Singapore Anglican Welfare Council (SAWC) was inaugurated on 31 August 1967 to minister to, and to carry out community services and welfare work, amongst the needy, destitute and impoverished, according to the teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ. In June, the management committee of SAWC decided to focus on family ministry. This led to the setup of Whampoa Care Centre in August together with the Chapel of the Holy Spirit. It served as a family crisis refuge for women and children, and a day care sheltered workshop for people with mental health issues Counsel, Restore, Equip was adopted as the official motto for psychiatric services. The Eliot Road Care Centre started operations in February The Balestier Care Centre started operations in May. Hougang Care Centre was officially opened and admitted clients from View Road Hospital Simei Care Centre, the first and only purpose-built facility for psychiatric rehabilitation was officially opened. Youth Empowered for Success (YES) Club was launched to support youth recovering from mental health issues. 2

3 As we look ahead to the future, we remain obedient to the Lord s calling and strive to strengthen our proficiency in serving the community. SACS seeks to be Christ s light in the community, trusting the Lord and rallying together as a team to serve those in need. With the same passion and commitment of our forerunners, we will continue to go from strength to strength to seek the welfare of the city (Jeremiah 29:7). A Client s Journey to Recovery Over the course of 30 years, SACS Psychiatric Services has helped many clients to integrate back into the community, including Ms. Fiza (not her real name) who is recovering from schizophrenia and depression. Fiza was 18 years old when she became pregnant with her ex-boyfriend s child. However, he did not want to bear the responsibility of caring for Fiza and their child. Although Fiza had no experience taking care of babies, she adored children and desired to bring up her own child. Uncertain of what the future held for her and her child, she felt depressed and fearful of facing the world. At a complete loss of how to manage her situation, she sought help from a medical social worker at the National University Hospital (NUH) who arranged for her to meet a psychiatrist. She was diagnosed with schizophrenia and depression and was admitted to the hospital for a week. Her medical condition stunned her family, as she was the caregiver to her mother who also suffered from schizophrenia. Subsequently, the NUH medical social worker referred her to SACS Community Rehabilitation and Support Services (CRSS). Initially, she had doubts that the care team would be able to help her. However, her doubts and negative thoughts were dispelled after meeting her caring and compassionate counsellor. After a few months of counselling, she sought her counsellor s advice and assistance on joining the workforce and was introduced to an Employment Support Services (ESS) specialist who encouraged her to enrol at the Employment Training Centre (ETC). At the ETC and SACS Members Own Social Enterprise and Services (MOSES) retail store where she went through on-the-job training as a retail assistant, Fiza gained working experience, skills and knowledge which prepared her for entry into the competitive job market. Although she suffered relapse of her medical condition during her training stint at MOSES, she persevered in her recovery journey with guidance, support and encouragement from her training coordinator at MOSES. Fiza also received much encouragement from her counsellor and the ESS specialist, who stood by her and guided her in overcoming the life and work challenges she faced. The relentless support and assistance from the CRSS, ESS and MOSES care teams helped mould her into a confident young lady person with hope for the future. Equipped with skills and knowledge she gained from working at MOSES, Fiza has since secured a job as a full-time Programme Executive in a private corporation. ones SACS is the first organisation in Asia to obtain accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) A second CRSS centre was opened in Pasir Ris. The chaplaincy ministry to SACS services was inaugurated by the Diocese of Singapore. The Singapore Anglican Welfare Council (SAWC) was restructured and renamed the Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS). Community Rehabilitation and Support Services (CRSS) was initiated to enable SACS to serve clients where they reside in A third CRSS centre was opened at Yishun. In May, SACS clustered its psychiatric services under Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Recovery Services (PRRS) to provide a continuum of care for our clients with mental health issues. In November, the SACS Centre at HillV2 was opened. It houses two SACS services - Senior Community Outreach and Volunteer Engagement (S COVE) and Employment Support Services (ESS). S COVE organises enrichment and volunteer courses for seniors living in the community. Relocated from Pasir Ris, ESS helps to match persons recovering from mental health issues with sustainable jobs. The first CRSS centre, located in Bukit Batok, was officially opened. SACS inaugurated the Employment Support Services (ESS) to support our clients desire for sustained employment in the competitive job market. 3

4 Invited guests, grassroots leaders and residents celebrated the launch of PeCCO. Seeking the Welfare of the Community Celebrating Holy Trinity Parish s 20 th anniversary of community service at Kampong Glam and Official Launch of PEACE-Connect Cluster Operator (PeCCO) 2016 was a day of rejoicing as Singapore Anglican 16January Community Services (SACS) and St. Andrew s Mission Hospital (SAMH) celebrated Holy Trinity Parish s 20 th anniversary of community service at Kampong Glam and the Official Launch of PEACE-Connect Cluster Operator (PeCCO). We were blessed to have Mr. Tan Chuan-Jin, Minister for Social and Family Development (MSF), as the Guest-of- Honour and Ms. Denise Phua, Mayor of Central Singapore District, as special guest for the event. Representatives from government and partner agencies, members of the Kampong Glam Grassroots Organisations, sponsors, donors and residents were among the other guests that morning. At the official launch of PeCCO, Ms. Denise Phua delivered an inspiring speech and From right to left: Rev. Lim Kek Wah, Chairman, PEACE-Connect Cluster Operator (PeCCO) and Vicar, Holy Trinity Parish; Mr. Tan Chuan-Jin, Minister for Social and Family Development; Ms. Denise Phua, Mayor, Central Singapore District, and Mrs. Lucy Tan, Cluster Director, PeCCO unveiled the plaque to mark the Official Launch of PeCCO. encouraged PeCCO to provide a higher level of service for the benefit of the community. Thereafter, Mr. Tan Chuan-Jin toured the facilities of PeCCO as well as St. Andrew s Senior Care - JOY Connect, a service of St. Andrew s Mission Hospital that is operated by St. Andrew s Community Hospital (SACH). In celebration of Holy Trinity Parish s 20 th anniversary of community service in Kampong Glam, PeCCO also organised a Kampong Fiesta where Mr. Tan Chuan-Jin delivered his welcome speech to more than 500 residents and guests. 4

5 Mr. Tan Chuan-Jin, Minister for Social and Family Development, greeted the residents at the Kampong Fiesta, organised in celebration of Holy Trinity Parish s 20 th anniversary of community service in Kampong Glam. Sharing God s PEACE and JOY with the community PeCCO, operated by Holy Trinity Parish, under the umbrella of SACS, is situated in the Kampong Glam constituency. The service started in 1995 as a small scale Seniors Activity Centre, then known as Shalom Seniors Activity Centre (SAC). Since then, God enabled the team to fulfil their role as a neighbourhood link service provider, serving residents staying in 21 Housing and Development Board (HDB) blocks located at Beach Road and Crawford Lane. In 2014, MSF appointed PEACE-Connect as a Cluster Operator to oversee one Cluster Support with its own Social Work Team, its existing Senior Activity Centre at Block 8, a new Senior Activity Centre at Block 5, Level 2 and one Senior Group Home comprising eight units at Block 8. connecting them to service professionals who are able to address their medical, psycho-social and counselling needs, ensuring their compliance with medication and that they do not withdraw from society. The case managers also work together with volunteers to befriend the seniors and accompany patients for their medical appointments. In addition, the case managers provide mental health support to seniors with depression, dementia and other mental health issues, educate their caregivers, and link them up with hospitals to ensure that they continue to receive the appropriate psychiatric care and rehabilitation services under the Community Resource, Engagement and Support Team (CREST) programme. Since 2010, SACH Community Therapy Team has been partnering PeCCO to provide a maintenance exercise programme for the residents. In February 2015, with God s guidance and a heart of service, SAMH set up St. Andrew s Senior Care - JOY Connect to meet the healthcare needs of the residents. JOY Connect complements PEACE- Connect s services by providing day care, dementia day care, community rehabilitation, integrated home care and community case management services for the residents. Having commenced operations in May 2015, PeCCO aims to promote purposeful community life among the residents living in the HDB rental units by providing recreational and cognitive activities as well as support services for the elderly residents living in the HDB one and two-room rental units of Blocks 4 to 10, 18 and 19 at Kampong Glam. With a team of case managers, PeCCO conducts home visits to vulnerable seniors, Mr. Tan Chuan-Jin, Minister for Social and Family Development; Ms. Denise Phua, Mayor, Central Singapore District, and senior residents sang traditional folk songs together. Quoting from Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Mr. Tan Chuan-Jin, Minister for Social and Family Development, visited JOY Connect (a Senior Care Centre by St. Andrew s Mission Hospital also located at Kampong Glam) with Board and Management of PeCCO, SACS and SAMH. Indeed, enabled by Him, PeCCO and JOY Connect shall strive on together to serve the community! 5

6 Engaging Seniors in the Community: SACS Centres at Floral Spring and Golden Orchid SACS Centre at Golden Orchid. Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) has expanded its suite of Senior Services with two Senior Activity Centres, namely SACS Centre at Floral Spring (Block 426A Yishun Avenue 11) and SACS Centre at Golden Orchid (Block 499 Jurong West Street 41), which began operations in May and June 2016 respectively. The Centres serve as community space for residents living in studio apartments to gather and participate in programmes that promote holistic wellness. Volunteers from Westside Anglican Church provided logistical support at the soft launch event of SACS Centre at Golden Orchid. Guests at the soft launch event of SACS Centre at Golden Orchid. Left, clockwise: Revd. Ang Soo Sung, Priest, Westside Anglican Church; Dr. Arthur Chern, Group Chief Executive Officer, SACS and SAMH; Mr. Ang Wei Neng, Member of Parliament, Jurong GRC and Advisor to Jurong GRC Grassroots Organisations; Ms. Winnie Chan, Head, SACS Senior Services; Mr. Kelvin Koo, Pastoral Staff, Westside Anglican Church; and staff of SACS. Both Centres provide basic support services to seniors living in the studio apartments on the upper floors. These services include: Manning an alert system which enables seniors to make emergency calls for help to the respective Centres from their homes during normal operating hours; Providing referral services for seniors upon request; and Organising social-recreational activities for seniors at the Centres such as arts and crafts, cooking sessions, and board games to encourage interaction with their neighbours. SACS is blessed to have Yishun Christian Church (Anglican) Chinese Congregation and Westside Anglican Church as anchor parish partners for SACS Centre at Floral Spring and SACS Centre at Golden Orchid respectively. The Pastoral staff and church members at each parish support the Centres by participating in its community outreach programmes and assisting in the running of its activities. A soft launch event was held on 16 April 2016 at the SACS Centre at Floral Spring, and 14 May 2016 at the SACS Centre at Golden Orchid. The event at Floral Spring was graced by Mr. Ong Ye Kung, Acting Minister for Education (Higher Education and Skills) and Senior Minister of State for Defence. Mr. Ang Wei Neng, Member of Parliament, Jurong GRC and Advisor to Jurong GRC Grassroots Organisations graced the event at Golden Orchid. In addition to the Centres staff, volunteers from both anchor parishes were on-site to provide logistical support to the event. SACS Centre at Floral Spring. Guests at the soft launch event of SACS Centre at Floral Spring. Volunteers from Yishun Christian Church (Anglican) engaged members from SACS Centre at Floral Spring, in a game of Rummikub. Third from right, anti-clockwise: Dr. Arthur Chern, Group Chief Executive Officer, SACS and SAMH; Mr. Ong Ye Kung, Acting Minister for Education (Higher Education and Skills) and Senior Minister of State for Defence; Revd. Ng Hwee Leong, Priest-in-Charge, Yishun Christian Church (Anglican) Mandarin Congregation; (third from left) Ms. Winnie Chan, Head, SACS Senior Services; and staff of SACS. 6

7 Reaching Out with New Services General Nursing Homes with co-located Senior Care Centres Artist Impression of St. Andrew s Nursing Home at Henderson. (Picture courtesy of the Ministry of Health, Singapore) Artist Impression of St. Andrew s Nursing Home at Queenstown. (Picture courtesy of the Ministry of Health, Singapore) By God s grace, St. Andrew s Mission Hospital (SAMH) will operate three general Nursing Homes in the next three years. Located at Henderson Road and Margaret Drive respectively, both St. Andrew s Nursing Home at Henderson and St. Andrew s Nursing Home at Queenstown are expected to be operational in early Under the Ministry of Health (MOH) s Build-Own- Lease (BOL) scheme, the government pays for the capital cost of building the nursing homes, owns the nursing homes, and tenders out the operation of these homes competitively. SAMH has been appointed by MOH to be the operator of these two BOL nursing homes. The third Home, an initiative of St. John s St. Margaret s Church in collaboration with SAMH, is expected to be operational in early Located at 30 Dover Avenue, the nursing home will be within an integrated complex, housing both the nursing home and a pre-school. Spaces and programmes will be created to facilitate and nurture intergenerational connectivity and activities, with the aim of improving the quality of life for both groups. All three nursing homes will provide integrated residential, centre-based and home care services. The nursing homes will each have a co-located Senior Care Centre which will provide day care, centre-based nursing, integrated home care and community case management services. Active and maintenance rehabilitation will be available for those residents who will benefit from it. To encourage interaction, residents can participate in weekly social activities. Home care services will also be available for home-bound residents living in the vicinity. 7

8 Partnering PAP Community Foundation to meet the needs of the ageing population in Simei Opening Ceremony. Mrs. Josephine Teo, Senior Minister of State, Prime Minister s Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Transport as well as Chairman, PCF Executive Committee; Ms. Jessica Tan, Member of Parliament, East Coast GRC and Mr. Alex Yam, Member of Parliament, Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC were also present as Special Guests. The new Sparkle Changi Simei is a response by PCF to the growing needs of the community in caring for the elderly. With this new role, PCF aims to provide quality and affordable dementia, maintenance, rehabilitation and nursing care to seniors, in addition to its significant role in early childhood education. The Right Reverend Kuan Kim Seng, Assistant Bishop, Diocese of Singapore (representing The Right Reverend Rennis Ponniah, Bishop of Singapore and President, St. Andrew s Mission Hospital) receiving a Partnership Appreciation Plaque on behalf of St. Andrew s Community Hospital, from Mr. Lawrence Wong, Minister for National Development and Chairman, PCF Council of Management. The PAP Community Foundation (PCF) officially opened its first senior care centre on Saturday, 2 April 2016 with Mr. Lawrence Wong, Minister for National Development and Chairman, PCF Council of Management as the Guest-of-Honour for the Official Mr. Lawrence Wong said at the ceremony, In the 60s, PCF responded to the need for pre-school services by setting up kindergartens in void decks. Subsequently, with changing demand and needs, we shifted to full-day childcare services. Now with a rapidly ageing population, we are seeing greater needs on the ground for senior care services. That is why we are starting this new service. Because we have little experience in this area, we decided to start by partnering with the Alzheimer s Disease Association and St. Andrew s Community Hospital (SACH) in providing dementia care and day rehabilitation services respectively. Dr. Loh Yik Hin, Chief Executive Officer, SACH, commented, This partnership is a wonderful example of voluntary welfare organisations coming together to meet the increasing needs of the frail elderly in our community. SACH and Changi General Hospital are both located at Simei and a significant number of our patients live there. This new centre will definitely help in supporting and enabling them to age-inplace in the community. From left to right: Mr. Tan Song Mong, Director, Senior Care Division, PAP Community Foundation (PCF); Mr. Victor Bay, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), PCF; Dr. Ang Peng Chye, President, Alzheimer s Disease Association; Mr. Lawrence Wong, Minister for National Development and Chairman, PCF Council of Management; Mrs. Josephine Teo, Senior Minister of State, Prime Minister s Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Transport as well as Chairman, PCF Executive Committee; Ms. Jessica Tan, Member of Parliament, East Coast GRC; The Right Reverend Kuan Kim Seng, Assistant Bishop, Diocese of Singapore (representing The Right Reverend Rennis Ponniah, Bishop of Singapore and President, St. Andrew s Mission Hospital); Mr. Alex Yam, Member of Parliament, Marsiling- Yew Tee GRC; and Dr. Loh Yik Hin, CEO, St. Andrew s Community Hospital. 8

9 Memories Café at St. Andrew s Community Hospital SACH, which has been operating a Dementia Care Ward since 2013 for patients with moderate to severe dementia needing rehabilitation; worked with ADA to set up Memories Café sessions within its premises. The first session was held at Wang s Café located in SACH. That afternoon, patients from the Dementia Care Ward changed into their favourite outfits, and had an enjoyable hour of drumming, led by One HeartBeat Percussions, followed by another hour of interaction over light refreshments. The turnout was extremely encouraging - members of the public were captivated by the rhythmic drumming and even staff of the Wang s Café joined in the fun. Patients from St. Andrew s Community Hospital (SACH) Dementia Care Ward and their caregivers had an enjoyable afternoon drumming to the beat of the maestro from One HeartBeat Percussions, at the inaugural Memories Café session held on 27 November Memories Café is a programme by the Alzheimer s Disease Association (ADA), made possible with a grant from the National Arts Council. It is modelled after Dr. Bere Miesen s Alzheimer s Café in It comprises a two-hour outing for persons with dementia and their caregivers, to participate in activities in a relaxed setting, i.e. a café, with the aims to: Reduce social stigma and negative stereotypes; and encourage social acceptance of persons with dementia. Create a social interaction platform for persons with dementia and caregivers; away from institutional care settings and their homes respectively. Enhance the relationships between caregivers and persons with dementia, through participating in various activities together. Ms. Jen Goh, Senior Medical Social Worker, served hot beverages to participants of Memories Café. Ms. Jen Goh, Senior Medical Social Worker at SACH, who also conducts art activities for patients with dementia at the ward, said: We hope that the Memories Café sessions would provide opportunities for our patients and their caregivers to enjoy themselves, and also provide opportunities for us to engage the caregivers. We also hope to create awareness about ADA so that caregivers can have an additional resource when patients are discharged home. Memories Café will continue to be held on a quarterly basis at SACH. 9

10 Active Ageing As A Community The Singapore Department of Statistics reported that the number of seniors aged 65 and above living alone has almost tripled over the last 15 years, from 14,500 in 2000 to 42,100 in This is a worrying trend as Singapore becomes an ageing society. Research findings from the Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Studies showed that seniors who stayed alone and are unable to participate in social activities displayed signs of depression due to health problems, social isolation and poverty. To address this health concern, the Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) Centre located at Bukit Gombak, has embarked on the Seniors Community Outreach and Volunteer Engagement (S COVE) programme since its official opening on 21 November S COVE is a community-based eldercare volunteer programme where abled and active seniors who are 50 years old and above are engaged, trained and empowered to support and enrich the lives of the less privileged seniors by befriending them. Ties That Bind Through Healthy Korean Food S COVE organised its first Volunteer Befrienders training programme on 25 February 2016 which was attended by 13 seniors. The training programme comprised of six sessions which focused on various topics such as selfawareness, qualities of an effective befriender and volunteer code of ethics. Upon the completion of their training programme, volunteers are matched with clients of the SACS Cluster Support, most of whom are vulnerable seniors living in Jurong East with little or no family support. The volunteers befriend them on a regular basis, through providing physical and emotional support. Through this befriender programme, SACS Cluster Support aims to enhance seniors quality of life, enabling them to remain in their own homes and community. Volunteers were inspired by the learning experience and believed that befriending could help the seniors keep loneliness at bay. Ms. Ruan Shuiyun, 54, shared, The training session, facilitated by an engaging trainer, was very useful and I learnt how to better communicate and care for the elderly. I am inspired to practice what I have learnt to help the seniors and am looking forward to visiting the seniors under the care of SACS Cluster Support. Participants of the Volunteer Befrienders Training Session. seek sustained employment in the competitive job market. Participants were invited to share their learning points. The workshop, conducted by Mrs. Hyuna Lee and Mr. Albert Lee, guided participants in preparing Korean food in a healthy and tasty way. Besides promoting healthy dietary habits, the workshop also provided a platform for participants to connect and build community spirit. 10 (which means hello in Korean). Annyeong-haseyo! Many would agree that cooking and sharing food is a good group bonding activity. On 1 March 2016, Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) introduced a special programme, Korean Nutrition Talk and Cooking Demonstration Workshop at the SACS Centre at Bukit Gombak. Participation was overwhelming. Clients of various age groups from Employment Support Services (ESS) and S COVE, both located at SACS Centre, attended the session. Through ESS, SACS provides employment services to help clients recovering from mental health issues Mdm. Tan Mai Nyim, 70 years old, expressed, This young man beside me is very caring and helpful. He took good care of me during the food preparation by helping me to carry the heavy chopping board over from the sink, and kept a close eye on me when I cut the ingredients with a knife. The workshop ended with new friendships forged and participants look forward to more group bonding activities in the near future. Participants prepared Kimchi (fermented vegetable appetizer). Guest presenters, Mrs. Hyuna Lee and Mr. Albert Lee, shared about the nutritional values of Korean food.

11 Making A Difference Through Art 14 April 2016 was an exceptionally joyous day for 12 residents at St. Andrew s Nursing Home (SANH). Having attended Art Therapy sessions since January 2016, these residents completed the 12-week course in early April. A graduation ceremony was held at SANH where graduates were presented with a Certificate of Participation. Their artwork were also put on display, viewed and appreciated by staff and residents. Art therapy is a therapeutic activity in which clients, facilitated by an art therapist, use art media, the creative process, and the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, foster selfawareness, manage behaviour, develop social skills, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem. A goal in art therapy is to improve or restore a client s functioning and his or her sense of personal well-being. The Art Therapy sessions at SANH was conducted by Ms. Kelly Reedy, a professional artist and an art teacher at the National Institute of Education (NIE). She is currently pursuing her Masters in Art Therapy at LASALLE College of the Arts. For her first internship, Ms. Reedy s lecturer at LASALLE suggested that she conduct Art Therapy sessions in a psychiatric nursing home such as SANH. Having no prior working experience with persons with psychiatric conditions, she plucked up courage and agreed to the internship opportunity. SANH psychologist and care staff helped Ms. Reedy conduct her weekly sessions successfully. The team conducted pre-assessment such as identifying residents who would be receptive towards art sessions, and engaged them during the Art Therapy sessions. An enthusiastic colourist of the group, Mr. Low Kiam Leong who is 73 years old, with Ms. Kelly Reedy (left), instructor for the Art Therapy sessions at St. Andrew s Nursing Home (SANH). Residents selected and displayed the art pieces. Intricate clay models made by the residents were also on display! SANH presented a token of appreciation to Ms. Kelly Reedy. From left to right: Ms. Malathi Hariharan, SANH Psychologist; Ms. Winnie Chan, SANH Executive Director; Ms. Kelly Reedy, instructor for Art Therapy sessions, and Mr. John Chan, SANH Assistant Executive Director. One of the many posters in support of World Autism Awareness campaign, made by residents who attended the Art Therapy sessions. Over the course of 12 weeks, Ms. Reedy managed to break the barriers between residents who attended the Art Therapy sessions and fostered new friendships with them. A few residents even asked for her during the Chinese New Year break. Sharing her reflection after the Graduation Ceremony, Ms. Reedy said Working with the residents at SANH has been very rewarding. Over the past three months, I have seen them express themselves more each week through their artwork. More importantly, they have begun to form friendships with each other. The Art Therapy sessions were deemed a success with SANH s residents. Their bond with each other became stronger overtime. One of them even brought coffee sachets to share with her classmates at one of the Art Therapy sessions. Another resident who frequently suffers severe hallucination saw improvement in his condition. He was able to concentrate better in his daily activities after attending the Art Therapy sessions. In support of this year s World Autism Awareness campaign, the residents who participated in the Art Therapy sessions also created attractive Autism Awareness posters which were displayed in the lift lobbies of SANH. Mr. John Chan, Assistant Executive Director, SANH, who was encouraged with the results expressed, The saying, a picture is worth a thousand words resonates my sentiments as I see the artwork created by the residents. I am proud of everyone who had participated in this programme. I can sense that the graduates felt a sense of achievement, from the joy and radiance they displayed when they receive the Certificate of Participation. Art has indeed brought out the talent and positive energy in our residents which we have not seen before. They look forward with great excitement and anticipation in wanting to attend more art sessions in the near future! As part of SANH volunteers programme, Ms. Reedy will return to SANH in June 2016 to paint a wall mural with our residents. 11

12 Opening Doors to the World of Autism My World: Neighbours Getting to Know Neighbours was well-attended by neighbours, friends, partners, and the community at large. Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Social and Family Development and Ministry of Education, graced the community outreach event as the Guest-of-Honour. The day began with a concert that featured performances by students and clients of SAAC, as well as performers from Mendaki and Siglap South CC. The guests were then brought on a tour of SAAC, where they viewed its classrooms and facilities, and learned about the centre s teaching techniques and vocational tracks. They were also given demonstrations of class and therapy sessions; as well as interactive activities, such as a multi-sensory activity and collaborative painting. Guests registered their attendance at St. Andrew s Autism Centre (SAAC) Open House. Many of those living in Siglap South Zone 1, the neighbourhood in which St. Andrew s Autism Centre (SAAC) is situated, may be familiar with the centre s facade, but may know little about the work that happens in 1 Elliot Road. While a few have been helping out as volunteers in SAAC, many of the other residents may not have experience interacting with or supporting persons with moderate to severe autism. Having moved into its purposebuilt premises for some time now, SAAC felt that it was timely for a community outreach, as part of its ongoing autism advocacy efforts. The event also witnessed the official launch of the Day Activity Centre s (DAC s) Urban Farming Pilot Project, which is part of the DAC s Horticulture Vocational Skills Programme. Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim symbolically launched the project by helping to harvest some vegetables from the crop. The Urban Farming Pilot Project is run by the DAC in partnership with Genesis Gardens. The Concert and Open House at SAAC was a success. Both Siglap South CC and Mendaki have expressed interest to collaborate with SAAC again, especially for community events involving neighbours at Siglap South Zone 1 in the future. Coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April, SAAC, together with two of its neighbours, Siglap South Community Centre (Siglap South CC) and Yayasan Mendaki (Mendaki), organised a special community engagement event this year. The SAAC Concert and Open House, entitled In SAAC staff helped out at its Concert and Open House. What is Autism? Autism is a brain-based development disorder with no scientifically-proven cause or cure. It is characterised by impairments in social interaction, language and communication, perspective taking and inflexibility. No two persons with autism will exhibit identical symptoms. Each person with autism is unique. About Urban Farming Urban farming is the practice of cultivating and harvesting plant food in an urban setting. The Urban Farming Pilot Project, by the Day Activity Centre (DAC) at St. Andrew s Autism Centre (SAAC) is a new initiative of the DAC Horticulture Vocational Skills Training Programme. It leverages available and appropriate rooftop space at SAAC s premises to extend the horticulture skills of clients in the DAC. The Urban Farming Pilot Project at SAAC began in November The first batch of crops was planted in January 2016 and harvested by the end of February

13 Entering In My World Taking a Trip Back in Time to the Concert and Open House at SAAC Performances by students of St. Andrew s Autism School and clients of the DAC were key highlights of the concert. Guest performances by Teens Network Club (Marine Parade) representing Yayasan Mendaki (left) and Temasek Pipers representing Siglap South Community Centre (right). SAAC staff shared with guests about the many facets of their work in educating, training and supporting persons with autism. The Guest-Of-Honour, Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Family and Social Development and Ministry of Education, launched the DAC Urban Farming Pilot Project by symbolically harvesting a crop of vegetables at SAAC s Rooftop Garden. Guests also viewed the newest architectural additions to SAAC the Urban Farm (left) and Horticulture Shed (right). Both facilities are used to train the DAC s clients in the Horticulture Programme. 13

14 A specially designed room for conducting Theraplay sessions, where interaction between children and parents is the key focus of the programme. Healing Pain and Restoring Lives Role plays are a common feature of the Intentional Interviewing Skills for Counselling Course. St. Andrew s Lifestreams (SAL), a service of St. Andrew s Mission Hospital (SAMH), is a multi-faceted educational, training and resource centre for the public as well as practitioners in the care and counselling profession. SAL offers programmes such as intervention therapy sessions, professional and pastoral care training. Since November 1998, SAL has been developing training contents for practitioners in the care and counselling profession, integrating theory and skills in multi-cultural settings, through various skills-based workshops and talks. These courses help professionals and church lay leaders develop skills in building relationships. One such course is the Intentional Interviewing Skills for Counselling Course, a 12-week clinical-based programme comprising theory and practicum sessions, which trains social service professionals in engaging clients undergoing counselling in Family Service Centres (FSCs). SAL also serves the community and embarked on a new therapeutic intervention called Theraplay for parents and their children in Jaunary Theraplay is a form of child and family therapy that focuses on improving the child s behavioural and emotional challenges through parent-child relationship. It has been used successfully to help children experiencing challenges such as medical trauma, attachment issues due to adoption or multiple family placements, social interaction difficulties, attention and hyperactivity concerns, depression, defiant or controlling behaviour as well as autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. During a theraplay session, the therapist guides the parent and child through games, challenging activities, and nurturing interactions. Theraplay helps the child experience previous difficult interactions in new ways, overcome fear and increase trust, and creates a positive change in the child s sense of self. It also helps the parent to be attuned to the child, understand the motives of the child s behaviour and his/her underlying needs, manage environmental stimuli, and carefully guide the child in a safe environment. Shirley (not her real name), a single mum, had to give up her full time job to take care of her five-year-old son who frequently withdrew to his room, messed up his play area and shouted at her over trivial matters. After undergoing Theraplay programme sessions for three months, Shirley is now able to manage her son s tantrums, be empathetic towards him and understand how to better relate with him. SAL has also been engaging churches under the umbrella of the Diocese of Singapore to provide training programmes based on biblical perspectives, for church leaders to develop competence in establishing and maintaining effective pastoral relationships with their members. The Pastoral Care Module teaches skills to leaders in the church, based on the model that Jesus used to engage His disciples and others. As Singapore moves forward to be a learning nation, SAL provides the avenue for all who wish to be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to overcome life challenges. For more information on the courses conducted by SAL, do visit its website at 14

15 A Learning Journey Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) and St. Andrew s Mission Hospital (SAMH) were glad to host visitors from the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council (HKSKHWC), on their study trip to Singapore from 11 to 15 April Besides visiting and hearing from the various community services of SACS and SAMH, the group also visited St. Andrew s Cathedral, Caritas Singapore and St. Andrew s Secondary School. Their objective was to learn and observe how the mission of the Church could integrate with the various social services, and to seek potential collaborative projects. The study tour was led by The Right Reverend Andrew Chan, Bishop of the Diocese of Western Kowloon. A fruitful and memorable exchange between the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council (HKSKHWC) and Diocese of Singapore. Second row (clockwise), fifth from the left: Revd. Foo Chee Meng, Senior Chaplain, Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) and St. Andrew s Mission Hospital (SAMH); The Rt. Revd. Low Jee King, Assistant Bishop, Diocese of Singapore; The Rt. Revd. Rennis Ponniah, Bishop, Diocese of Singapore and President, SACS and SAMH; The Rt. Revd. Andrew Chan, Bishop, Diocese of Western Kowloon; and the team from HKSKHWC. The HKSKHWC, the social welfare arm of HKSKH, offers a wide range of services for people of various age groups and strata in Hong Kong, and promotes social service in Macau and China. Its member agencies deliver care in the areas of education, counselling, medical and home care, rehabilitation, day care centres and employment services. One Team, One Dream SACS-SAMH Annual Staff Dinner HKSKHWC representatives at the Simei Care Centre, where SACS and SAMH Headquarters is located. They were hosted by Dr. Arthur Chern, Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), SACS and SAMH (second row, eighth from left); Revd. Foo Chee Meng, Senior Chaplain, SACS and SAMH (second row, seventh from left); Mr. Steven Ting, Head, Psychiatric Services, SACS (second row, first on the left); and Dr. Loh Yik Hin, CEO, St. Andrew s Community Hospital (not pictured here). We are humbled by the invitation to have an exchange with HKSKHWC and privileged to host this visit. To God be the Glory! A ptly themed One Team, One Dream, the Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) and St. Andrew s Mission Hospital (SAMH) Annual Staff Dinner saw team members from 19 SACS- SAMH community service arms coming together on 29 April 2016 to celebrate another year of serving those in need as a team. Staff dressed up to the occasion in sports attire, and mingled with fellow colleagues from other services within both organisations. Talented SACS and SAMH staff who put in many hours of practice in addition to their usual duties at their respective institutions, performed song and dance items. It is through supporting and complementing each other s strengths and weaknesses that we are able to stand united as One Team to fulfil One Dream of seeking the welfare of the city. May we continue to step forth to serve the community as God leads, holding His people in our hearts! Staff from both SACS and SAMH gathered for a fun-filled evening. It was certainly a lively sports affair! 15

16 Loving People, Showing Compassion 171 SACH staff awarded the EH Alliance Caring Awards. The Eastern Health Alliance (EH Alliance) Caring Awards is an initiative aimed at celebrating the spirit of caring throughout the regional health cluster. It recognises the staff of EH Alliance who provide excellent care and service for patients, as well as patients and caregivers who inspire others through their determination and courage. This year, a total of two Superstar, six Star, 62 Gold, and 101 Silver Awards were presented to staff winners of St. Andrew s Community Hospital (SACH) at the EH Alliance Caring Awards Ceremony held on 13 May Dr. Loh Yik Hin, Chief Executive Officer, SACH said, I give thanks to God for our staff, who daily give of their best to provide care and comfort to our patients whatever the difficulties and cost. They truly live up to our mission statement of being a light in a dark place. Congratulations to all our SACH winners! More photos and information on the full list of our Caring Awards 2016 winners can be found on the SACH Facebook page ( Dr. Arthur Chern, Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Singapore Anglican Community Services and St. Andrew s Mission Hospital (first row, fifth from right); Dr. Loh Yik Hin, CEO, St. Andrew s Community Hospital (SACH) (first row, fourth from right); SACH Management and recipients of Eastern Health Alliance (EH Alliance) Caring Awards SACS-SAMH JOINT CHARITY DINNER - 28 OCTOBER 2016 Singapore Anglican Community Services (SACS) and St. Andrew s Mission Hospital (SAMH) serve over 20,000 people through our various services annually. While most of the services of SACS and SAMH are partially funded by the Government, we need to raise $5 million a year to sustain our operations and help those in need. SACS and SAMH will be organising a joint Charity Dinner at the Pan Pacific Singapore on Friday, 28 October 2016, 7:30 pm, to raise funds so that we may continue to deliver quality services at affordable prices to all who require the necessary assistance. Our Guest-of-Honour is Mr. Tan Chuan-Jin, Minister for Social and Family Development. We aim to raise $600,000 from the Dinner. Please us at general@sach.org.sg for more details. All donations of $50 and above made in 2016 are eligible for 2.5 times tax deduction. We look forward and thank you for your continued support of our work. CONTACT US St. Andrew s Mission Hospital 8 Simei St 3, Singapore Tel: Website: St. Andrew s Community Hospital St. Andrew s Autism Centre St. Andrew s Lifestreams St. Andrew s Nursing Home St. Andrew s Senior Care St. Andrew s Mission Hospital Clinic Singapore Anglican Community Services 10 Simei St 3, Singapore Tel: Website: Hougang Care Centre Simei Care Centre Community Rehabilitation and Support Service Employment Support Services SACS Cluster Operator at Jurong East PEACE-Connect Cluster Operator Senior Community Outreach and Volunteer Engagement (S COVE) SACS Centre at Golden Orchid SACS Centre at Floral Spring SACS Family Care Centre CITY Community Services Mission to Seafarers ANGAGE is an in-house publication of St. Andrew s Mission Hospital and the Singapore Anglican Community Services. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of the Corporate Communications Department, St. Andrew s Mission Hospital. Designed and produced by Semco Design Communications Pte Ltd. 16