CREATING INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES: RESPITE CARE SERVICES REACH MORE FAMILIES

By Morapedi Sibeko.

• Lessons learnt on a study visit to Japan in mid-2025 to find out how that country creates inclusive spaces for people with disabilities, including respite care programmes, are already being applied in South Africa’s communities
• Two respite care pilot projects – supported through a partnership between the Department of Social Development and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) – are currently running in the Northern Cape and Mpumalanga.
• A workshop in Upington in the Northern Cape to assess the impact of these projects highlighted the significance of collective action in sharing knowledge, resources, and commitment to provide relief, support, and hope to people with disabilities, and their families.

Progress happens when people come together with a shared purpose. In Upington in the Northern Cape, the third joint coordinating committee meeting on respite care services brought national and provincial government officials, civil society organisations, and international partners together to reflect on achievements and plan the next steps for families of children with disabilities.

Behind every programme are caregivers whose unwavering dedication drives the need for accessible and sustainable support.

Delegates heard the thoughts of Peter Netshipale, the director-general of the national Department of Social Development.

He reminded participants that Disability Rights Awareness Month, which takes place every November, provides an opportunity to look back on progress while reaffirming that inclusion is an ongoing journey.

Respite care offers relief, dignity, and strength to families who provide lifelong care to children with disabilities.

Two respite care pilot projects – supported through a partnership between the Department of Social Development and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) – are currently running in the Northern Cape and Mpumalanga.

They continue to show how shared knowledge can contribute to improving the quality of life for children with disabilities and their families.

Netshipale highlighted the importance of learning from pilot sites, strengthening collaboration across government and civil society, and embedding a culture of accountability to ensure no family is left unsupported.

“I am honoured to be part of this meeting and to witness the dedication of everyone involved in supporting children with disabilities,” said Kaoru Okada, chief representative of JICA South Africa.

“During a study tour to Japan in July, participants explored innovative ways to support children with severe and profound disabilities. They saw firsthand how multi-professional teams work together and how individualised support plans are developed to meet each child’s unique needs,” Okada added.

“It is inspiring to see that the lessons learned are already being applied here in South African communities, translating global knowledge into practical solutions that strengthen local services and make a real difference in the lives of children and their families.”

Sarel Mtsweni, the head of Mpumalanga’s Department of Social Development, also addressed the gathering.

He called attention to the detailed report produced by the Japan study tour, which has been approved by the provincial authorities, including the MEC for Social Development and the province’s executive committee.

The report serves as a roadmap for implementing respite care services in Mpumalanga and reinforces the province’s commitment to planning that is informed by evidence and best practice.

Mtsweni emphasised that support for children with disabilities is a daily responsibility, extending far beyond special observances, and requires a coordinated approach across sectors.

“I am proud of the progress we have made in ZF Mgcawu (District Municipality),” said Shouneez Wookey, head of the Northern Cape’s Department of Social Development.

“Through our support services, the Strong Women and Oasis centres have been strengthened, giving families and children with disabilities greater access to care and support.

“We are also finalising the handover of a vehicle to improve mobility for beneficiaries, making it easier for them to reach essential services.”

Wookey added: “Training for caregivers, led by the allied health professionals from Harry Surtie Hospital, is scheduled to equip them with the skills needed to provide high-quality care.

“These sessions will help ensure that children receive the attention they deserve while caregivers feel supported in their vital roles.”

Collaboration between government departments, non-governmental organisations, and caregivers is at the heart of everything the department does, she emphasised. “By working together, we can create responsive, inclusive, and sustainable services that truly meet the needs of our communities.”

While acknowledging the progress made, the committee also recognised areas that need continued attention, including: limited data on people with disabilities; the absence of a comprehensive information system; and the need for clearer criteria to determine levels of support have presented planning and costing challenges.

These reflections highlighted the value of ongoing dialogue, close collaboration, and informed decision-making to ensure that respite care services reach more families and make a meaningful difference in their lives.

During the discussions, delegates explored practical steps to enhance service delivery, including consolidating lessons from pilot sites, coordinating with all spheres of government and non-profit organisations, and embedding disability rights into social protection frameworks.

Throughout the dialogue, the voices of caregivers and community members were emphasised, reminding participants that respite care is not only a programme, but a lifeline for families who provide constant care, love, and dedication to children and people with disabilities.

The third joint coordinating committee meeting highlighted the significance of collective action. By uniting knowledge, resources, and commitment, the programme continues to grow in impact, offering families relief, support, and hope.

The collaborative spirit seen in Mpumalanga and Northern Cape illustrates how meaningful inclusion is built through partnerships, responsiveness to real needs, and a dedication to ensuring that every child and caregiver has access to the services necessary to thrive.

The meeting reaffirmed that inclusive respite care services are a reflection of what can be achieved when all spheres of government, caregivers, civil society, and partners work together. Each lesson learned and each milestone reached contributes to a stronger, more inclusive society where children with disabilities can live with dignity, independence, and opportunity.