Social services | [site

Social services

A young happy mother and boy pointing at cameraThere are a number of services offered by the National Department of Social Development, the Provincial Department of Social Development and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) which are aimed at uplifting communities.

These services are aimed at helping you deal with the social challenges which you may experience daily or from time to time, but also as a means to help you become self-reliant.

The Western Cape Government Department of Social Development is committed to provide a comprehensive network of social development services that enables and empowers the poor, the vulnerable and those with special needs. Read more about this in their Service Charter

What is the Customer Service Charter?

The Charter outlines the services available to you as well as how you should expect to be treated when making use of these services which includes our responsibility to you when you approach us for help.

Social wellbeing of citizens

Crime and violence has a big impact on the social wellbeing of all citizens. According to the 2017 State of Urban Safety Report, released by the South African Cities Network’s Urban Safety Reference Group (USRG), residents in Cape Town are more affected by and fearful of crime than residents in other cities

Our Department of Social Development has put together a directory of services for victims of crime and violence.

We're constantly trying to improve the lives of everyone living in the Western Cape by making sure that a comprehensive network of social development services are provided to help and empower the poor, vulnerable and those with special needs.

The following facilities and services are available to you. This directory isn’t a complete and comprehensive reflection of all relevant sector entities in the Western Cape. It’s updated regularly and strives to meet your needs as a citizen. 

Key services Key facilities


To access any of these services or to find out more information about a facility near you, contact the toll-free number: 0800 220 250

Alternatively, you can contact your nearest regional office for help.

Regional Offices:

  1. Eden Karoo (George)
  2. Metro East (Kraaifontein)
  3. Metro North (Goodwood)
  4. Metro South (Wynberg)
  5. West Coast (Vredenburg)
  6. Winelands Overberg (Worcester)
The content on this page was last updated on 4 July 2019