SWD: Subsidised Welfare Services to Resume Operations on May 16

Subsidised services in Hong Kong, including residential care services, community care services, home care services, and centre-based services for the elderly, persons with disabilities, families, youths, and communities, will resume normal operations on May 16, as per a spokesman for the Social Welfare Department (SWD) via a government press release yesterday.

Some services, such as meal services from elderly centres, among others, will be given by appointment to reduce the risks of COVID-19 infection. Those in groups may be conducted online or in accordance with the prohibition of group gatherings as mandated by the Prevention and Control of Disease (Prohibition on Gathering) Regulation (Cap 599G).

"Service operators should keep their service users informed of the latest arrangements while service users who have the need for the services may also contact the relevant service units," the release said. "Service operators should continue to provide suitable personal protective equipment for their staff having regard to the relevant guidelines issued by the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health."

The SWD also announced prior that aided child care centres for children three and under will gradually resume operations starting May 16. Special child care centres will likewise resume half-day classroom training on the same day.