Void deck centres 'benefit public', make services accessible

Published on Feb 13, 2012

A family service centre at an Ang Mo Kio block's void deck. Volunteer groups benefit from subsidised rent. -- ST PHOTO: JOYCE FANG

By Shuli Sudderuddin & Tay Suan Chiang

Voids decks have become a hot topic following the recent petition against a day-care centre for the elderly in Woodlands.

Yet, despite the controversy, voluntary welfare groups which have set up shop in these communal spaces say there are distinct benefits.

For a start, it helps them to be more accessible to the community. Some can even pay three to five times less in overhead costs.

Mr Alfred Tan, executive director of the Singapore Children's Society, said the voluntary group started opening branches in Housing Board void decks in the 1980s in a conscious decision to get closer to its beneficiaries, and because it is cheaper.

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Void deck centres 'benefit public', make services accessible