Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs
Lighting the way
A SEA of Change
Social Empowerment Agency (SEA) is the amalgamated entity of the Child Care Board, National Assistance Board, National Disabilities Unit and Welfare Department.
Senior Games 2025
Registration is now opened for the 2025 Barbados National Senior Games.
Survey on digital payments in Barbados
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), in partnership with the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs (MPEA).
Our Mission
The delivery of exemplary social protection policies, programmes and services that are more people centred, leading to the empowerment of persons for the reduction of poverty and vulnerability.
ONE Family Program
This section will contain a brief overview of the program.
Functions of the ministry
Service Categories
Children
Counselling and other services for children in need of care and protection, and support for the parents and guardians of those children
Disabilities
Services to facilitate the advancement and empowerment of people with disabilities.
The Elderly
Maintain the dignity of elderly persons by providing innovative social support and recreational services that enhance their quality of life in the community.
Emergency Social Relief
Support for persons who may be experiencing crises.
Gender services
Seeking to redress the attitudes, practices and systems that operates as barriers to gender equality in Barbados.
Homeless
Provide shelter and food for homeless men at night and support their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Support for non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Welfare Assistance for Individuals and Families
Services dedicated to delivering exceptional social support aimed at uplifting, developing, and empowering those in poverty, and vulnerable individuals.
Statistics and Initiatives
Highlights
%
Unemployment
The unemployment rate in Barbados was 7.10% in the third quarter of 2024, down from 7.70% in the second quarter. In 2023, the annual unemployment rate was 7.95%, showing a decline from previous years.
Population
As of 2025, the estimated population of Barbados is 282,623. The country has a population density of 657 people per square kilometer, with about 32.5% of the population living in urban areas
%
Poverty
The Poverty Headcount Ratio in Barbados, which measures the percentage of the population living below the national poverty line, is estimated at 17.2%. This means that nearly one in six Barbadians experience poverty based on national standards.
Pause for Parenting Radio Series
An initiative by the Barbados Child Care Board that provides guidance and support for parents. The program focuses on positive discipline strategies, family relationships, and alternative methods of parenting. It features expert discussions, interactive sessions, and practical advice for parents, including those referred by the courts and government agencies.
Special Dates
Calendar
February
Feb 18: Day of Women of the Americas
March
Mar 8: International Women’s Day
November
Nov 19: International Men’s Day
Nov 25 – Dec 10: 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence
Activity
Recent News and Events
Senior Games 2025
Registration is now opened for the 2025 Barbados National Senior Games. To register online visit https://bnsg.org Registration outlets: BARP Office Fisherman’s Pub Child Care Board National Sports Council National Disabilities Unit Emerald City supermarket Ministry of...
Social Empowerment Agency Will Be In Place Soon
All work has been completed with respect to the Social Empowerment Agency (SEA), the amalgamated entity of the Child Care Board, National Assistance Board and Welfare Department, under the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs. This was announced by...
National Consultation on Domestic Violence
Savannah Beach Club Hotel, Bridgetown Barbados March 24-25, 2025 The Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs and the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and UN Women,...
Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs
Call (246) 535-1600/1/2/3