Focusing on caregivers: the experiences of women caregivers caring for orphans and vulnerable children at Crossroads Child and Youth Care Center, Matatiele.

Abstract

The concept of caregiving is at the centre of current political, social, cultural and economic debates globally. Under capitalism, care and caregiving are socially necessary and integral to reproduction and production but is increasingly devalued. There is lack or absence of adequate labour protection for caregivers, whether in relation to their voluntary or in non-wage labour activities. This study focuses on women caregivers’ experiences and challenges in caring for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) and at the same time providing care to their own families and households. The study probes about the types of support available and the support caregivers deem necessary and important in their roles. The study draws on ethics of care theory that reflects the caregivers’ experience, why women end up in the caregiving field and why caregiving is considered as a public good, a labour of love, and how care is provided ethically. The theory also shows the relationship between patriarchy, socio-economic status and gender roles in South Africa influences understandings and valuing of paid versus unpaid care work. Use of the case study approach assisted to allow for an in-depth understanding of the caregiving in a specific context. A sample of ten caregivers working both day and night shift at Crossroads Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC) participated in face to face in-depth interviews. Thematic content analysis technique was used to report key findings. The study shows that caregivers require support in terms of policy reframing. The participants explained, for example, that in the NPO sector, the policies did not adequately support their labour demands and the time required to provide OVCs with comprehensive care. Stipends and pension benefits are not comparable and fair. Capacity building to enhance their job, life skills, and interventions to address social problems are needed. It is recommended that caregivers should be part of policy forums to establish their needs. It is also recommended that since legislation and contracts are usually in English translations are required and perhaps workshops on how to understand the contracts. Caring for the caregivers is equally important and beneficial.