Rahayu Mahzam on access to Government grants for mentally disabled

The Family Justice Courts (FJC) has introduced a simplified track to make deputyship applications easier, faster and more affordable in the disbursement of Government grants provided for mentally disabled individuals. FJC has also worked with DBS to create a further expedited track for caregivers who require emergency funding. Under this process, caregivers can apply for a court order to make a one-time withdrawal of up to S$5,000 in emergency funds without having to attend court. Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Law Rahayu Mahzam highlighted this in reply to an MP's question in Parliament on Wednesday (Nov 9). She said the Government is aware that some caregivers may face difficulties in accessing the bank accounts of persons who have lost mental capacity in the absence of a Lasting Power of Attorney. It will consider how it can streamline the processes for caregivers to access such grants at the scheme level where possible without compromising the protection of the individuals.