The experiences and perceptions of social workers on the provision of family preservation services in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan, Gauteng Province

• Main Author: Nhedzi, Felistas
• Other Authors: Makofane, M. D. M.
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: 2014
• Subjects: Child welfare; Family preservation services; Prevention services; Early intervention services; Statutory intervention services; Aftercare services; Social workers’ experiences; 361.3096822; Social workers > South Africa > Ekurhuleni; Child welfare > South Africa > Ekurhuleni; Family social work > South Africa > Ekurhuleni; Family services > South Africa > Ekurhuleni; Public welfare > South Africa > Ekurhuleni; Intervention (Administrative procedure)
• Online Access: Nhedzi, Felistas (2014) The experiences and perceptions of social workers on the provision of family preservation services in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan, Gauteng Province, University of South Africa, Pretoria, <http://hdl.handle.net/10500/14363>; http://hdl.handle.net/10500/14363

Many South African families are beset by social, psychological and economic challenges placing children at risk. Family preservation services, capitalising on families’ strengths to resolve their problems, are crucial to avoid the removal of children from their homes. Using a qualitative approach, this study reveals the experiences and perceptions of twelve social workers providing family preservation services in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan of Gauteng Province. These social workers articulate their understanding of and experiences with the Children’s Act (Act No. 38) of 2005. They are generally optimistic that family preservation services can offer a helping process with the potential to improve family functioning. Nevertheless, there are stumbling blocks to effective service delivery, such as the kinds of social problems experienced by families, lack of funding, high caseloads, lack of resources and little co-operation from other disciplines and agencies. Based on these findings, recommendations are made for practice, policy and further research. === Social Work === M. A. (Social Work)