Page 267 - Demo

Department: Social Development2 REVIEW OF THE CURRENT FINANCIAL YEAR (2024/25) 2.1 Key achievements HIV/AIDS The Department implement HIV/AIDS programmes to address social and structural barriers to curb new HIV infections, STIs and TB as a result 65 533 beneficiaries were reached through social and behaviour change programmes. The department managed to offer psychosocial support services to 51 199 beneficiaries as at end of third quarter that are living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic conditions due to emerging social ills that demand this type of service against an annual target of 57 124. Social Relief A total of 4 379 beneficiaries were assisted with material support to address the most basic needs through Social Relief Programmes. A total of 6 210 girl learners benefitted from the Sanitary Dignitary programme whilst 52 01 eligible girl learners were assessed and are due to benefit in the fourth quarter. Older Persons The department continued to support older persons in ensuring independent living, economic empowerment, promoting community-based care services, establishment of recreational opportunities for Older Persons and that they reside in their communities, 15 302 Older Persons accessed Community Based Care and Support Services. The department funded residential facilities benefitting 1 481 older persons to ensure the provision of care support and protection of older persons. Care and Support Services to Families The Department implemented re-unification services 276 family members that were removed, separated or displaced, as stipulated in the guidelines on reunification services. A total of 29 161 family members from all districts participated and benefitted in family preservation services. Additionally, A total of 20 734 family members participated and benefitted in parenting programmes in order to improve communication, enhance strong family relationships between children, their parents and the entire family members. Persons with Disabilities Community based care and rehabilitation is a strategy that aims at improving the lives of people with disabilities through rehabilitation, social inclusion and equal opportunities. The department provided developmental and integrated services to persons with disabilities, 812 persons with disabilities accessed services in 20 funded Residential facilities and a State Residential facility. 24-hour care and protection is made available to access a comprehensive service. 20 617 persons with disabilities, their families and community members accessed community-based and rehabilitation services. Child Care and Protection The department supported 46 334 children in need of care and protection were placed in foster care with valid foster care orders and a total of 1 647 children were placed in foster care for the first time following Social Workers%u2019 assessment and investigation processes that found them in need of care and protection. The department, further, reunified 53 children who were placed in foster in line with Children%u2019s Act, 38 of 2005 as amended, which contributes towards realization children%u2019s rights to survival, growth, protection and development to the best of their ability in a family environment. 246