Initiative to help rough sleepers find co-tenants for rental flats among pilot projects given MSF funding

Singapore's Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) has allocated funds to support 17 community-led initiatives aimed at addressing homelessness. Among these projects is the Common Ground – Joint Singles Scheme (JSS) Matching Programme, which pairs rough sleepers seeking to rent a public rental flat with compatible co-tenants. This approach aims to facilitate quicker housing access and minimize the likelihood of shared living arrangements falling apart.

Dr Steven Tham, executive director of Good News Community Services, explained that the initiative involves providing rough sleepers with cards detailing their preferences and "non-negotiables" in a potential co-tenant, such as tolerance for late sleeping or loud music. This helps identify compatible individuals and allows them to assess compatibility before committing to a shared living situation.

The Joint Singles Scheme (JSS) enables two singles to jointly rent a flat, with the JSS Operator-Run pilot allowing singles to apply without first finding a flatmate. Tenants are assigned co-tenants by a social service agency, taking into account each individual's profile, preferences, and living habits. Despite the JSS receiving a positive response from some rough sleepers, MSF's January report revealed that many were unaware of the new housing schemes or unwilling to apply.

Other initiatives under the PATH fund include an apprenticeship program for rough sleepers and an upgrade of facilities at a temporary shelter. These projects aim to provide tailored support for rough sleepers, helping them regain stability, strengthen relationships, and develop the skills needed to maintain long-term housing.