APPROACHES TO CARING FOR CHILDREN ORPHANED BY AIDS AND OTHER VULNERABLE CHILDREN

Abstract

The growing numbers of orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa represent a grave concern for education, health, and social development organizations. The HIV/AIDS epidemic is the primary contributing factor to these increasing numbers as South Africa experiences one of the worst HIV/AIDS epidemics in the world. While statistics on orphans are not always reliable, they are consistently alarming. The number of children orphaned by HIV/AIDS increased by 400% between 1994 and 1997. It has been estimated that by 2015, when the epidemic should have reached its peak, orphans will comprise 9-12 % of the total population i.e. 3.6-4.8 million children (Smart, 2000:16). Before HIV, the care of orphans in developing countries was mostly absorbed by the communities. Now, the increasing numbers are rapidly moving beyond coping capacities of many communities. It is well documented that AIDS illnesses and deaths adversely affect households. Principle income earners who are HIV positive are likely to lose their sources of income and medical expenses represent a significant strain on household income as does their death. Children are orphaned and the majority of them lose their right to a decent and humane existence. Without the protection of parents, or an appointed caregiver, children are more likely to lose the opportunity for schooling, nutrition, shelter, health care and the love, affection and guidance required for growth into responsible adulthood. Traditional means of caring for children have had to adapt. In addition, other indigenous responses have emerged and continue to evolve as the numbers of orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC) increase and their needs intensify. However, it is clear that responses to the plight of these children are struggling to cope with the escalating HIV/AIDS epidemic. In South Africa research into models of care and the cost of this care for orphaned and vulnerable children is scarce (Smart, 2000; McKerrow, 1995; McKerrow, 1996). While recent studies provide useful insights into the nature of care provided in these various contexts, there is an imperative to develop a framework for evaluating the quality of service and for assessing the feasibility of each approach. For the purposes of this study, quality care has been defined as:” Care which meets the needs of children in a culturally acceptable way and enables them to realise their rights”.