The foster care backlog: A threat to the retention of social workers

Abstract

The Department of Social Development employs the bulk of social workers in the country. The government is faced with an overwhelming demand for services and an inability of social workers to cope with these demands. A study in the Johannesburg office of the Department, focusing on the foster care backlog, indicated reasons for, and consequences of, this backlog. This article links these findings with factors associated with the turnover or departure of social workers. Recommendations are made on how the foster care backlog can be addressed and a stable, well-trained work force can be ensured within the field of foster care.