The social support network and remaining needs of child-headed households. A study on provided support to, and remaining needs of child-headed households based in the Limpopo Province, South Africa.

Abstract

This study explored the support and remaining needs of child-headed households in Elandsdoorn, Limpopo Province, South Africa, within their social network. The role of the South African government was included, since they are responsible for the well-being of child-headed households. Data collection was done through nine semi-structured interviews with heads of child-headed households, ages from 15-25 years old, who live in the Elandsdoorn township. Main conclusions were that all households have built a network around them, although the amount, intensity and content of the supporting network differed within each household. Emotional, material and practical needs remained. The support of local government appeared to be present, but weak. Child-headed households were aware of only a small part of the services that should be available. Actual received support was even less, due to unawareness within the households, and difficult, time-consuming processes and a high non-response rate at local government.