Social Development
Which targeted suicide-prevention strategies has his Department implemented in high-risk communities in the province, particularly among the youth and for rural populations?
The Western Cape Department of Social Development provides psychosocial support services to children and youth who have been referred to the department due to suicidal ideation. Further statutory interventions are then implemented based on a safety and risk assessment. These services are available at all of the Department’s local offices. The Department also funds NPOs to run preventative programmes at schools to address self-harm and suicide. The Department’s secure child and youth care centres also implement a suicide and self-harm prevention policy. Any acts of self-harm are reported, and a multidisciplinary team immediately starts an intervention. The child in question is also put on suicide watch, which includes checks at 15-minute or 30-minute intervals 24/7.
