Workshop on findings of Gap analysis of Children Act and Audit of Social Services.

As part of the activities organized to commemorate World Social Work day 2025, a half-day workshop took place at the STC Conference room on the 21st of March to present the findings of the gap analysis of the Children Act and the second phase audit of Social Services. The workshop was attended by the Principal Secretary of the Social Affairs Department, the Director of Social Services, and all social workers of Social Services.

Two consultants from the UK conducted the second phase of the audit of Social Services, Ms. Thoko Baleni and Mrs. Patroneller Ndhlalambi. Additionally, Ms. Joelle Barnes worked on the gap analysis for the Children Act. The workshop served as an opportunity for them to discuss their findings with the staff of Social Services and have an open dialogue based on the findings and recommendations.

Through the presentations, the consultants highlighted some of the challenges they identified and provided some recommendations to improve on current constraints. Staff took the opportunity to share their views on current practices and sought advice from the consultants on issues affecting social work.

The findings of the audit as well as the gap analysis of the Children Act will serve to inform decision going forward as well as the revision of the Children Act. Staff were encouraged to continue the dialogue amongst themselves on matters discussed in the workshop and to share additional inputs they may have. The half-day workshop proved very beneficial for the social workers, as they were informed of ongoing work to improve the service on offer.