KNYSNA NEWS - As a final effort to prevent the permanent closure of Dorothy Broster Child and Youth Care Centre, the organisation held a public meeting recently at the Knysna Angling Club. According to community activist Lynn Kayster, it was mainly attended by funders.
The board proposed purchasing a property near Kunjani Mall, Concordia, at a cost of R2.9m, potentially rising to R3.8m after rezoning, aiming to raise the full amount by the end of November to secure the new premises.
Despite these efforts, the closure of the home is confirmed for the end of November.
Transition and placement
The Department of Social Development (DSD) has outlined a structured transition plan ahead of the impending closure to ensure the safety and care of the 50 vulnerable children affected.
According to Kayster, 28 category 3 and 4 children (drug- and alcohol-abused) have already been placed in alternative care, while 22 children are awaiting rehoming after the completion of their school exams. The rehoming of the children have also been confirmed by DSD. Placements include other registered child and youth care centres (CYCCs), foster homes, or reunification with family members, in line with the Children's Act. The centre's registration will be cancelled upon closure.
Proposed new property
According to the proposal in Knysna-Plett Herald's possession, the current property in Khayalethu has become unsuitable due to its location, structural limitations, safety concerns, and lack of space for recreation or skills development.
The proposed new property near Kunjani Mall presents an opportunity to provide a safe, purpose-built facility for 30 to 40 children, with outdoor space, modern facilities, and room for skills training.
The board believes that, with donor partnerships, this project could secure the future of vulnerable children and ensure their continued protection.
DSD emphasised that it does not fund property purchases or renovations, but will register the CYCC once the premises meet all legal, safety, and operational standards. Feasibility, financing and municipal approvals for the property remain under review.
Governance and challenges
DSD confirmed that it was not invited to the 6 November meeting, which primarily involved funders and private stakeholders. However, the department remains in continuous engagement with the board to ensure a smooth transition for all children.
Dorothy Broster has faced ongoing operational challenges, including a shortage of qualified carers, only one social worker for 50 children, inadequate recreational space, unsafe fencing, high water bills, unsuitable transport, and dormitory renovation needs.
Over the past four years, DSD funded 45 bed spaces at the centre, but compliance with national norms and standards remained a challenge.
DSD has committed full funding during the three-month closure period to ensure uninterrupted care, education and mental health support for all the children affected.
Both the department and the board have worked extensively to meet standards despite resource constraints.
At the time of going to press, no comment was forthcoming from Dorothy Broster regarding the latest developments.
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The end of an era for Dorothy Broster | Knysna-Plett Herald
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