Social Development

Whether psychological counselling is provided to children and their families who are the victims of gun violence; if not, what measures can be implemented to effect the complete recovery of these children and their families; if so, [a] what are the relevant details and

 Yes, the Department of Social Development’s social workers provide psychosocial support to children affected by gun violence who have been referred to the department for assistance. Referrals are received, inter alia, from the SAPS, NGOs, the Department of Health’s facilities, religious organisations, schools, family members or other community members.  The support provided can also involve a multidisciplinary process with Department of Health facilities and or the Department of Education’s learner support services, depending on the needs of the child and family. In addition, the Victim Empowerment Programme of the Department of Social Development funds 15 specialised organisations to render psychosocial support services to victims of crime and their dependants. Funded organisations render services in hotspot crime areas, and the majority of the referrals are received from SAPS.

[b]   for how long is the counselling provided?

The social worker involved will conduct a thorough assessment of the therapeutic needs of each victim that will determine the nature, frequency, and length of time of the psychosocial support services to be provided.