Abstract

VAN NIEKERK, Joan  and  MATTHIAS, Carmel. Government and non-profit organisations: Dysfunctional structures and relationships affecting child protection services. Social work (Stellenbosch. Online) [online]. 2019, vol.55, n.3, pp.239-254. ISSN 2312-7198.  https://doi.org/10.15270/52-2-737.

This article is based on a qualitative descriptive study of the child protection system after 1994. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior social workers in management positions in the Department of Social Development and non-profit organisations in three provinces. The main focus of the article is on the structure, functioning and resourcing of child protection services in post-apartheid South Africa. Key findings of the study include the lack of an over-arching strategy for child protection services, the dysfunctional relationship between government and the non-profit sector, and inadequate resourcing.

Keywords : funding; child protection services; child protection protocols; child protection practice; non-profit sector; government.

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