The City of Cape Town’s Social Development and Early Childhood Development Department has guided these families through the internationally recognised Strengthening Families programme which helps both child and parent recognise the value in a familial relationship.

‘The Strengthening Families programme is one of our many social crime and substance abuse interventions. Often problems at home are blamed for social ills such as substance abuse, gang involvement, truancy and other negative behaviours. This programme starts at the root and aims to improve relationships and the overall climate in the home environment. It also helps to build resilience in young people so that they are able to make good life choices.

'As a caring City we realise that to tackle social issues such as gang violence and drug abuse, we need to start at the heart of our communities which is our families,’ said the Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

During the 2018/2019 financial year, 315 families from across the city completed the programme and this weekend graduated at a celebratory event.

The Strengthening Families Programme is designed to improve the communication and relationships within families, and in turn social cohesion. It uses practical and interactive methods to encourage communication between parents and children, and is an evidence-based programme that has proven results.

‘Families need help not just to communicate and understand each other better, but often also to make more informed and better choices. Poor choices are often a result of discord within families which then spill over into communities. While there is no guarantee that a happy home prevents anti-social behaviour, the programme assists by instilling positive behaviour early on,' added Councillor Badroodien.

The programme was first piloted in April 2013, when 63 families from Scottsdene, Elsies River, Manenberg, Lavender Hill and Bonteheuwel attended the course.