Publications from ODSW Social Insights: Letters by DSW (Vol 2) | Page 41

Working with Various Client Groups

Heterogeneous sandwich
Designing policy for this heterogeneous cohort with varied resources and
values is a gargantuan proposition. While it is logical to imagine that some
subsidies can be made universal and more accessible to this group, it must
be recognised that not all in the sandwiched generation need the same level
of help. There are “good sandwiches” – households which have good child
care support from the older generation and where the younger generation
have access to many benefits, resources and opportunities. Should the level
of subsidies they receive be the same as those in less advantaged positions
simply because their roles in caring for the young and old are the same?
The mantra of “family is the first line of support” is increasingly being
tested. There is increasing pressure for more help to be extended beyond
the low income group to more accurately reflect the contemporary social
and demographic realities. For example, the sandwiched generation, not
unlike others, faces the disequilibrium from re-skilling for re-employment
in a more volatile global economic environment while being committed to
various responsibilities. Families today have fewer children, households are
smaller in size and there are fewer adults in any household to share the
responsibility of supervising, supporting and caring for the young and old.
So it does look like the sandwiched generation warrants greater support
from the state. The approach for support and subsidies is usually structured
as a partnership among state, private and community agencies, business
and educational institutions and a network of social, cultural and religious
organisations. Such an approach however does not place the responsibility
to support needs solely or clearly on anyone. It builds on the assumption of
a more Asian perspective that weighs the care of the young and old more
on the family, community and individuals. But the question is whether the
family is prepared and able to shoulder the burden of the “heavy lifting’’ of
care and for how long.
It is important to delve deeper into understanding the load of care, when it
happens, the cost implications and the access to care and alternatives. This
will ensure that the support, subsidies and safety net are designed to best
distribute the limited resources. Let’s take a look at how the 3 “S” works for
the sandwiched generation.
SUPPORT: Defined as moral, practical help and the physical caring of the
young and old. It varies across families and the amount of support given
tends to be a function of the relationships and obligations among members
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