Should a bad story be allowed to hurt a good cause?
If you are visiting this page, you are likely aware that Girls and Boys Town has recently been featured in the media with harmful allegations levied against the institution. Girls and Boys Town is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where all youth can thrive, regardless of their past experiences or current challenges. Through personalised interventions and compassionate support, the organisation empowers young individuals to envision and pursue successful futures.
We respect the need for oversight and independent investigation but urge supporters to view the evidence and context in which these allegations have been made.
The children supported by Girls and Boys Town are often those who have already experienced significant trauma and instability in their lives. For many, the organization provides not just shelter and food, but a sense of belonging and stability that they cannot find elsewhere. The anxiety and disruption caused by negative media portrayals can exacerbate their already fragile mental health, making it even more difficult for them to find the stability and support they so desperately need.
When the media chooses to highlight the struggles of organizations such as Girls and Boys Town without a balanced perspective, it creates an environment of fear and uncertainty.
Old boys speak out
Watch a video testimonial from an independent chairman of the GBTSA alumni after a recent visit to the Magaliesburg campus.
Our CEO speaks out.
You’re likely to be here because you’ve come across the serious allegations made against Girls and Boys Town in the media. And because you think it’s fair to get both sides of a story before deciding what’s true and what’s not. So thank you for your coming here with an open mind.
First off, be very assured that Girls and Boys Town supports any independent investigation into any allegations of neglect or abuse of any child, anywhere at any time. We have been doing this ourselves for the past 66 years. We also respect any journalists’ obligation to report what they find provided these allegations are true and balanced.
Sadly much of the narrative depicted recently in the media came from a few staff who were either facing lawful dismissal or procedural discipline for dereliction of their childcare duties. As a result hundreds of selfless and competent care givers who make up the Girls and Boys Town staff compliment around the country have been painted as villains.
Since the seemingly careless and irresponsible allegations were permitted to air, the welfare and treatment of our vulnerable children has been badly jeopardised. Our staff and children have been traumatised and vilified in their communities and families. And our organisation, a cornerstone of South Africa’s welfare service, may be hamstrung from serving the many thousands of children we help year on year. The damage is enduring and deep.
To the media, we implore you to recognize the power you wield and the responsibility that comes with it. Your words and stories shape public perception and can either contribute to the downfall of crucial support systems or help them improve and thrive. To the public, we ask for patience and understanding. Look beyond the headlines and seek out the full story. This page serves to share additional context and information that has not been made available to you through the media. And in the spirit of transparency we invite you to reach out to use directly with any questions or concerns.
Thank you for caring to listen…
Lee Loynes
CEO
WHAT WE STAND FOR
Children first:
Girls and Boys Town prioritises the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable youth entrusted to its care.
Safe haven for healing:
Girls and Boys Town is proud to provide safe and nurturing environments for children who have experienced trauma.
Empowerment through care:
Girls and Boys Town utilises an evidence-based therapeutic and educational programme designed to promote healing, restoration and equip youth with the tools to navigate life’s challenges upon returning to their communities.
Evidence-based approach:
Girls and Boys Town’s therapeutic programmes are built on extensive experience and research conducted in partnership with the University of Johannesburg.
Collaborative network:
Girls and Boys Town works alongside other NGOs, childcare structures, families, communities and donors to create a comprehensive support system for the youth.
WHAT ARE THE ALLEGATIONS?
AND WHAT DO WE SAY.
At Girls and Boys Town South Africa (GBTSA), we are deeply committed to putting children first. Allegations of neglect are taken very seriously, and we want to clarify the measures we have in place to ensure the well-being and development of every child in our care.
Most children who arrive at GBTSA have faced significant challenges and behavioural issues. Our evidence-based programs are designed to help them heal from past neglect and trauma, fostering growth and resilience.
We provide regular therapy sessions, ensuring that each child has access to trained social workers who offer continuous support and guidance. Our youth receive essential items, including toiletries, and are fed according to the regulations set by the Department of Social Development (DSD).
Understanding the importance of a nurturing environment, we offer family-style homes for youth who have never experienced family life. This helps them learn what it feels like to be part of a supportive and loving household.
GBTSA is dedicated to creating a safe, caring, and nurturing environment where every child can thrive.
Girls and Boys Town South Africa (GBTSA) is committed to financial transparency and integrity. We take allegations of misappropriation of funds very seriously and want to assure our stakeholders of our rigorous financial practices.
For many years, our external auditors have consistently provided us with unqualified audits, reflecting our adherence to high standards of financial management and accountability.
We submit detailed and unquestioned quarterly financial reports to the Department of Social Development (DSD) financial division, ensuring continuous oversight and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
GBTSA remains dedicated to using our resources responsibly to support the children and youth in our care.
At Girls and Boys Town South Africa (GBTSA), we prioritise providing a safe and comfortable environment for our youth.
The youth quarters and showers at our Magaliesburg campus underwent complete renovations in 2020 and 2021. These upgrades have transformed our facilities into beautiful, comfortable, and fully functional homely environments for all our children.
Girls and Boys Town South Africa (GBTSA) is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to our youth, including addressing substance abuse issues. Allegations that our staff fail to address these concerns are not reflective of our practices and commitment.
Our staff are trained to handle a wide range of issues that our youth may face, including substance abuse. Many of the young people we admit come to us with complex challenges, including drug use, which is often a reason for their admission.
We provide significant individualised support as part of our mission to guide these youth through their healing journey. This process is non-linear and requires patience and dedication.
GBTSA has regular and rigorous drug testing protocols that are a critical part of our comprehensive care approach. This helps us monitor and address any drug-related issues promptly.
We prioritise timely interventions for our youth, including those undergoing drug testing. Both internal and external clinical service providers are engaged to deliver effective interventions tailored to each youth’s Individual Development Plan, which is reviewed and updated every six months.
Our commitment to effective intervention is evidenced by the detailed documentation maintained in each youth’s treatment and clinical files. We adhere strictly to these protocols to ensure that our interventions are not only timely but also customised to meet the specific needs of each individual under our care.
We hold our staff to the highest standards to ensure the wellbeing and safety of our youth. We want to outline the stringent measures we have in place.
The staff we hire undergo a thorough screening process before joining GBTSA, reflecting the critical nature of our work. This ensures that only the most qualified and dedicated individuals are part of our team.
Our staff are comprehensively trained to support and assist our vulnerable youth. They are committed to providing the care and guidance necessary for each child’s development and wellbeing.
We have robust processes in place to address any issues that may arise with staff. When cases do arise, we act in accordance with the law to ensure proper resolution. Our priority is always the safety and care of our youth.
At GBTSA we believe that every child needs the security of a home
Residential Services provides residential care to 300 boys and girls on any given day from all communities in 10 nationally located residential centres. Girls and Boys Town is the only child and youth care organisation in South Africa offering youth two alternative residential programme options.
Please view recent photos of the Magaliesburg campus here.