Social Work services available to vulnerable children: Lessons and best practices for South Africa from selected countries

Abstract

Currently, in South Africa, more than half of its children find themselves living in households and communities without adequate child welfare facilities. These conditions render them vulnerable as they have no control over their life circumstances. This has emerged as a growing concern, and a problem. This thesis attempts to enhance our understanding of some important interventions and support structures available to these children, families and communities. The study is vital as post-1996 the South African government has made strides in ensuring that through the 1996 Constitution, the Child Act of 2005 and the White Paper for Social Welfare, 1997 and other progressive social policies there is the gradual improvement of child welfare in the country. These legislations are a social policy to address the needs of children post-1996 to ensure social justice and equity in the country. Despite these efforts, implementation challenges are rife.