The Caring Network

From the outset the organization endeavoured to impart skills.  Initially in community caring, in an attempt to ameliorate the ravages of apartheid and dislocation. The forecast of the coming HIV/AIDS epidemic saw the introduction of a further two week home based care module in 1997, offered by an assistant nurse.  A third module provided by a specialist AIDS trainer was introduced in 2002 and dealt with signs, symptoms and management of HIV.  The course in total took 4 weeks.  It was recognized by various organizations as providing a sound basis for community health care work.

By 2004 CN had successfully developed its own material and obtained Health and Welfare SETA accreditation for training several Unit Standards in the Ancillary Health Care certificate, which training continues.
 Funding is secured to offer this training to unemployed women at a subsidised cost. Originally trainers moved from shack to shack, but now the training is offered in the heart of Khayelitsha at an appropriately equipped and staffed centre.  Over the years the age profile of trainees has dropped from women in their 40’s and 50’s wishing to help their community, to young people lately out of school and seeking a career path.  There are distinct advantages to CN training being located in the community: it is easily reachable, without high transport costs; it is subsidised and accordingly affordable (R950 for 6 weeks training); is offered in the learners’ home language and English; opportunities for appropriate practical experience are available through agreements with local health facilities.
The government for its part has introduced a skills development program, EPWP,  for people under the age of 35 years.  Contracted NPOs are used as a recruiters supplying suitable candidates from among their ranks, to receive four years of training in AHC certificate, while receiving a salary.  CN currently has ……learners who have completed levels 1 and 2.