Fall in positive attitudes comes despite more people with disabilities having jobs
Despite more people with disabilities (PWDs) in employment, positive attitudes towards this group of employees declined in workplaces in 2023, according to newly released government data.
The Disability Trends Report, published by the Ministry of Social and Family Development, found that positive attitudes towards PWDs in workplaces declined to 50.6% in 2023, down from 59.6% in 2019.
Those who are extremely positive towards PWDs declined to 14.1%, down from 20.6%, while those who are moderately positive went down to 36.5% from 39%.
Source: Ministry of Social and Family Development
"This decline could be attributed to several factors, such as the gap in awareness and understanding of the capabilities of PWDs," the report read.
"Despite the decline, it is worth noting that public attitudes have remained stable around public access and social inclusion, indicating that Singaporeans generally support providing more accessible spaces for PWDs, such as in transportation."
PWDs in workplaces
The gap also comes despite more PWDs in employment, according to the report.
It found that the average resident employment rate for PWDs aged 15–64 increased from 28.2% in 2018/2019 to 32.7% in 2022/2023.
The proportion of employed PWDs in full-time employment also went up to 79.7% in 2022/23, up from 74.5% in 2018/19.
Source: Ministry of Social and Family Development
Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Social and Family Development, said their findings indicate that Singapore has made progress over the years to become more disability-inclusive.
"However, we must continue to raise public awareness, especially less visible disabilities, such as intellectual disability and autism, and foster inclusive workplaces," Chua said in a statement.
"Disability inclusion is a collective effort – employers, families, and communities all play a critical role in building a Singapore where everyone feels valued and supported."
The Singapore government
