Department can assist parents struggling with drug-addicted children

The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) continues to call on parents dealing with substance abuse within the home, especially with their children, to seek assistance from our social workers.

The Department spends R104-million, to fund over 36 NGOs working at 51 drug and alcohol treatment sites across the province. Most of these services are out-patient based, and are based in the communities hardest hit by substance abuse.

Parents must know that they are not alone, and must seek help in tackling addiction.

The murder trial of Mitchells Plain father, Sedick Abrahams, reveals how such addiction within the family of a child, can end in tragedy.

Mr. Abrahams (62), who faces charges of having killed his 21-year old drug addicted son, appeared briefly before the Mitchells Plain Magistrates Court again today, where the case was postponed till May.

DSD continues to deal with cases of addiction, and since 2014 a total of 35 502 clients have accessed our substance abuse services.

Tik continues to be the most used drug, followed by cannabis, alcohol and heroin, which together make up 92% of all admissions to our treatment centres.

We must continue to speak out against those in our communities who peddle the drugs, and assist those addicted to them to seek help. The public seeking help can approach any of our social workers at their nearest DSD local office, or contact our Hotline on 0800 220 250.