Social Development MEC in the North West Basetsana Sussana Dantjie, along with the Departmental Head, Peggy Mhlongo-Kgaboesele on Monday conducted a fact finding mission dubbed Re thuse re go thuse MEC oversight to establish the facts that led some staff to put down tools at JB Marks treatment centre in Potchefstroom.
The state run facility was opened in 2020 to offer free drug treatment to service users which includes detoxification and administration inpatient treatment services.
Since its establishment, the facility has provided much needed rehabilitation services to users across the province.
For a week, some disillusioned staff members suspended their services due to unresolved challenges ranging from shortage of staff to capacity building.
During her day long oversight visit to a 40 bed capacity facility, Dantjie convened a meeting with the management of the facility, officials from head office and the consent staff to get first hand information before she intervenes.
“I have directed the institution manager, the district, programme managers, infrastructure unit and supply chain management to develop a programme of action with timelines within seven days to address staff concerns with a view to stabilise the facility,” MEC told staff at the treatment centre, adding that many people in the province still require rehabilitation services of this centre.
With substance abuse being on the rise among young people and adults alike, Dantjie emphasised that officials should find common ground to render rehabilitation services at a brisker peace at JB Marks treatment centre.
ENDS.
Issued by North West Department of Social Development
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