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Finding the Right Social Worker in South Africa 

Needing help? Social workers are there to support individuals, families, and communities in South Africa. There are different ways to find a social worker, depending on your situation and what kind of support you need. This guide will walk you through where to find contact information and what to expect from social workers in South Africa.

Reaching Out to Government Social Services

Department of Social Development (DSD): The DSD is the first stop for many people seeking social work services. You can visit your local DSD office or call their national helpline:  

Provincial Contact Numbers: Each province in South Africa has its own DSD contact number: 

  • Eastern Cape (043) 605 5000

  • Free State (051) 400 0302 / 0304 / 0307

  • Gauteng (011) 355 7687 / 7977 / 7878

  • KwaZulu-Natal (033) 264 5400

  • Limpopo (015) 293 6004 / 6054 / 6011 / 6053

  • Mpumalanga (013) 766 3098 / 3253 / 3031

  • North West (018) 387 3434 / 0255 / 3497 / 0281

  • Northern Cape (053) 807 5600

  • Western Cape (021) 483 3858/ 3765 / 3158 / 5445

Local Municipality: Your local municipality might also have a social services department you can contact. 

Important Numbers for Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

If you are experiencing GBV, there is help available. These are some resources to remember:  

  • Toll-Free Helpline: 0800 428 428  

  • USSD Code: Dial 1207867#  

  • Skype: @helpmegbv  

  • SMS Line: Send a message to 31531 

Finding Help from Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): 

Many NGOs offer social work services, often for free or at a reduced cost. Here's how to find them: Community Centers: Local community centres and churches might have information about NGOs in your area that offer social work services. Online Directories: Search online for directories of NGOs in South Africa. Websites like "NGO Pulse" or "The South African NGO Network" can be helpful.  

Finding a Private Practice Social Worker

If you're looking for a specific type of social work service, a private practice social worker might be an option. Here's how to find one:   

Professional Associations: The South African Association of Social Workers in Private Practice (SAASWIPP) or The South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP/Council) for referrals to private practice social workers. 

Social Workers in Hospitals and Clinics

Many hospitals and clinics have social workers on staff who can offer support and guidance. 

What is a Social Worker? 

Social workers are trained professionals who help individuals, families, and communities cope with challenges and improve their well-being. They work in various settings, including: 

  • Government agencies 

  • Non-profit organisations 

  • Private practice 

What Services Do Social Workers Provide? 

Social workers offer a wide range of services, such as: 

  • Counselling and therapy: Helping individuals and families deal with emotional and psychological issues. 

  • Social work assessments: Evaluating needs and circumstances to determine appropriate services. 

  • Case management: Coordinating resources and services for individuals and families. 

  • Advocacy: Representing people to ensure their rights are protected. 

  • Community development: Working with communities to improve social and economic conditions. 

Are Social Workers Free? 

Social work services are generally free when you access them through government-funded programs. However, there can be some exceptions. For instance: 

  • Services in rural areas might be more limited than those in urban centres. 

  • Some specialized services might have a fee, even if offered by the government. 

  • Your individual situation might affect the availability of free services. 

Remember: When contacting a social worker or organization, always ask about the specific costs and availability of services. 

We hope this guide helps you find the right social worker for your needs. Social workers are there to support you, so don't hesitate to reach out! 

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