Three siblings who were kept together and finding a way back to their mother

Introduction

In early April, OCOF HHCSA’s Social Worker was alerted to a distressing situation involving three siblings. The children’s relatives, stranded and seeking help at a police station, shed light on their dire circumstances. These siblings had endured neglect due to their mother’s struggles with alcoholism and neglectful behaviour.

Background

Community members took swift action on April 5th, rescuing the children from a locked room where they had been confined in unpleasant conditions. Despite efforts to seek help, the community’s pleas went unanswered by the authorities. The children were visibly traumatized, with one exhibiting signs of illness likely caused by the unsanitary environment.

Role of OCOF HHCSA & AFS K members

Due to public holidays, the local Department of Social Development (DSD) and relevant statutory organisation offices were closed. Understanding the urgency of the situation, the Social Worker sought guidance from OCOF HHCSA’s Operations Manager, who promptly escalated the matter to the Country Director for advice. In accordance with the South African Children’s Act, it was affirmed that OCOF HHCSA holds a legal responsibility to intervene in situations where the lives and well-being of children are at risk. Subsequently, the Social Worker contacted the statutory organisation, who confirmed the outlined process and instructed the Social Worker to proceed with removing the child.

Systemic issues

While children were placed with a Temporary Safety Caregiver (TSC), delays and poor communication from the statutory organisation hindered progress and a prolonged stay with the TSC left children and the biological mother in limbo. The children’s mother, left uninformed, grew anxious about her children’s well-being. Interventions were needed to prompt action from the authorities.

Where are we now

Despite setbacks, the children’s mother remained determined to reconnect with them. She actively participated in legal proceedings and sought support to address her personal challenges. With continued progress, the possibility of reuniting the family under monitored supervision emerged. The journey to reunite these siblings with their mother continues, underscoring the importance of swift and coordinated action to protect vulnerable children. Despite obstacles, hope remains for a brighter future as the family navigates this challenging but hopeful path forward.