Abstract:
The negative effects of institutionalization on children’s wellbeing and psychological
adjustment have been extensively explored throughout the world, particularly in
developing countries. Many children in residential childcare institutions, also known as
orphanages, experience various challenges. Institutionalisation affects the children’s
psychological adjustment. Hope and Homes for Children South Africa is the leading
catalyst in ensuring that children are not harmed in institutions but that they grow up
in families. Thus, the goal of this research was to explore the perceptions of social
workers in Ekurhuleni regarding reunification and de-institutionalisation services
rendered by Hope and Homes for Children South Africa. It is against this background
that the present study was conducted.
A qualitative research approach, and an exploratory research design was employed
as the method of collecting data throughout the study. Fifteen social workers within
Ekurhuleni were interviewed. The findings reported positive experiences and
perceptions regarding the reunification and de-institutionalisation services rendered
by Hope and Homes for Children South Africa. The researcher concluded that the
support and services rendered by Hope and Homes for Children South Africa is both
sufficient and effective and recommended that the organisation continue offering their
services to the various partners
