By Centre for Health Activation
Launch of the NHG Network for Senior Volunteers by Mdm Rahayu Mahzam (centre), Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Law, at the 11th Singapore Patient Conference on 18 October 2023
In the heart of Singapore, on 18 October 2023, the 11th edition of the Singapore Patient Conference unfolded with the theme 'Senior Volunteerism in Health and Social Care.' It was not merely a gathering; it was a celebration of the silver-haired heroes weaving stories of compassion and connection.
Against the backdrop of the conference's vibrant theme, over 500 attendees were treated to an array of inspiring narratives. The stage resonated with the tales of senior volunteers who, like threads in a tapestry, intricately contribute to the fabric of their communities. From heart-warming stories of residents touched by their efforts to the profound impact on social bonds, each speaker illuminated the profound influence seniors hold in shaping the social and healthcare landscape.
Representatives from esteemed organisations such as the National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre, Tsao Foundation, TOUCH Community Services and Bishan East Zone 1 Residents’ Committees (RC) Green Hub took the stage, sharing insights into the transformative power of senior volunteerism.
A significant highlight of this edition was the launch of the National Healthcare Group (NHG) Network for Senior Volunteers. This network is a vibrant 'marketplace' of volunteer opportunities, which can be found on the NHG Cares App, and focuses on connecting seniors, volunteers, and residents within Singapore's central region. By providing a seamless avenue for involvement, the network aims to enhance accessibility to volunteering opportunities, fostering a stronger sense of the 'Kampung' spirit within neighbourhoods.
The atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm as the network promised not only to bridge gaps but also to create a synergy that transcends age. This initiative is poised to be the catalyst for a community-driven movement, where the wisdom of seniors meets the energy of volunteers, knitting a richer, more tightly woven tapestry of care and support for all. As the curtains fell on the 11th Singapore Patient Conference, it left behind not just stories but a collective resolve to continue weaving the threads of compassion, one volunteer at a time.