Turning cries of distress into infectious baby giggles: rescuing baby Lethabo from a drug house

Introduction: 

In April 2023, a distress call from a concerned community member alerted AFS-Khusela in Soweto to the cries of a 10-month-old baby coming from a drug house. OCOF HHCSA and an AFS-K member promptly responded, arriving at the scene to find a chaotic environment with the baby’s father present but the mother and child missing. The cramped space was filled with other men, partying and using illicit substances. The state of neglect within the premises was evident, with appalling odours inside the house and the air and hygiene conditions proving it was possible for any human, let alone an infant, to live there.      

Background: 

Despite assurances from the father, the scene inside the shack revealed neglect and unsanitary conditions, with evidence of substance abuse. The following day, efforts to locate the mother and baby were successful. The child was found in a neglected state, covered in dirt and showing signs of potential abuse. It was immediately clear that this was a case of severe neglect and potential abuse.    

Role of AFS K Members: 

After locating the mother and child, immediate medical attention was sought, and the child was treated for neglect-related injuries. The child’s urgent medical needs were addressed, and she was placed with a Temporary Safety Carer (TSC) until further action could be taken. 

Role of OCOF HHCSA:    

In the interim, the child was placed with a TSC to ensure emergency care and protection. OCOF HHCSA with the AFS-K site, provided essential supplies including baby clothes, food, and formula. The child was bathed, clothed, and nourished by the TSC. Over the following months under the care of TSC, significant improvements in the child’s health and well-being were observed. With consistent care and support, the child began to overcome previous challenges, such as fear of water and difficulties with eating. Her growth and development flourished, evident in her newfound joy as she interacted with her caregivers and surroundings. To ensure ongoing support and monitoring, OCOF HHCSA and the AFS-K site maintained regular bi-weekly home visits. These visits were crucial for tracking the child’s progress and ensuring her continued health and support. 

Systemic Issues: 

The case was promptly reported to the Department of Social Development and the relevant statutory organisation by OCOF HHCSA and an AFS-K member within 24 hours of public holidays. However, there was a lack of communication from the statutory body, leading to weeks of no contact between the child, TSC, and biological mother regarding next steps.  Despite efforts to follow up, communication remains poor, and details about social care grants and TSC placement are unknown. The Department of Social Development acknowledged the lack of communication and advised a physical meeting with the organisation to ensure a smooth handover, prompting action. However, no long-term plans or family service plans have been shared, and efforts to find extended family are unclear from the statutory organisation’s side. 

Where is Baby Lethabo now? 

Baby Lethabo is officially in the care of the statutory organisation, which is responsible for managing the case and planning long-term interventions considering the severity of the situation. Efforts to locate the parents continue, and the child remains in the care of the TSC.