SMRT to turn 22 MRT stations and bus interchanges into care centres

In order to better serve the needs of neighbourhoods, SMRT is turning its public transportation nodes into care centres over the next two years for the public. 

Named the Go-To SMRT initiative, the transport operator will enhance its commuter services and facilities to better serve the community. 

A total of 17 MRT stations and five bus interchanges have been listed as Dementia Go-To Points, including Paya Lebar, Novena, and Yishun MRT stations as well as Choa Chu Kang, Sembawang and Woodlands bus interchanges. 

The Dementia Go-To Points will provide information and resources on dementia, and act as safe return points for the members of the public to bring lost persons with dementia.

Each designated interchange and MRT station also has a “Scan & Go-To” QR code, which acts as a digital concierge service. Commuters who scan the QR code can access travel information, such as the amenities surrounding the stations or bus and train timings.

SMRT also announced that its frontline bus interchange and station staff will experience training from agencies like the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC), Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped and Alzheimer’s Disease Association. 

Their staff will learn how to “confidently handle a variety of situations commonly encountered within the network”, including administering first aid and finding missing children.

SMRT’s first aid and WeCare rooms have also been refreshed to make them more welcoming. 

Mr Tan Kwang Cheak, the chief executive officer of AIC, said: “To better support persons with dementia and their caregivers, a supportive and inclusive community is critical to help them live and age well. We are grateful for the strong partnership with SMRT to equip their employees on knowledge about dementia and keep a look out for them.”