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- Support the Recovery of Children in a South African Hospital
What is Support the Recovery of Children in a South African Hospital project all about?
Volunteer abroad in South Africa and get to the heart of the local community through assisting local medical staff and carers by offering support to this busy children’s hospital. The hospital is a national asset and handles the worst cases of disease and chronic illness in children under 12 years of age. Focus areas include renal and liver transplants, specialized burn care, neurosurgery, cancer treatment, intensive care, HIV/Aids research, TB, re-hydration and co-ordination, and management in the care of chronic disorders.
There is a non-profit organisation based at the Children’s Hospital, which needs assistance. They’ve been in existence since 1978 and heir purpose is to accelerate and maintain the recovery of patients (the children) by providing resources, education and support.
Why choose this Community placement in South Africa?
This project is committed to helping make the hospital experience less traumatic for patients and their families by providing emotional support as well as practical assistance. It relies solely on the support of the community. By assisting with mealtimes, providing child care and playing in the hospital school etc. as a volunteer you will be an invaluable asset as well as much welcome new face to entertain and assist the children. the interaction children have with volunteers creates a warm and happy environment where the kids can be kids and not patients. It is during this time that patients can express their playfulness. It is also within this playful relationship that the child’s emotional and social development is encouraged.
Role of the Community Volunteer
As a volunteer there are many activities that you may be asked to help with:
- Teach and encourage children through play-based activities
- Assist with the implementation of health and safety standards by sterilising toys daily
- Assist with feeding the children
- Help with the preparation of activities and resources
- Assist with art projects, teaching basic maths, the alphabet, the time, general English and computer skills
- Assist with organising the linen room and storage spaces including labelling and sorting contents
- Assist with preparation of meals in the kitchen
- Assist with administrative tasks and fundraising shop
What skills do I need to Support the Recovery of Children in a South African Hospital?
You must love children and be comfortable interacting with them as you will be working closely with sick small children. Being able to use your own initiative and a willingness to work as part of a multicultural team is important as you will be working in a very busy healthcare environment. The project is perfect for those with no medical training who want to work with children in a medical / care environment. You will not be treating children on this placement. You will be asked to send your CV/resume as well as 2 character references before being accepted onto this project.
Also, please note that this project can be emotionally draining. It is important that you are aware of this before applying for this project.
Travel during COVID times
The health and safety of our travelers and our local communities remain central to our plans for reopening countries and projects. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been adapting our programs and protocols to protect all those involved, and ask for everyone’s patience and collaboration as new rules are implemented in-country. For all projects, new standards of sanitation, procedures and social behaviors are in place, including new health and hygiene protocols and social distancing practices. You can read more here. Each location may be slightly different in the way they operate. We encourage you to inquire to your placement advisor to learn more about your specific project as you plan for your responsible return to travel!
RECRUITING FOR 2022
WHY JOIN THE PROJECT
To help bring happiness to the daily lives of children recovering from illness and infection
Explore the many adventures that Cape Town has to offer
Because you can relieve the burden of local healthcare and childcare workers by providing entertaining and learning activities for the children
FEATURED VIDEO
PROJECT TESTIMONIALS



Where will I work in South Africa?
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is set against crystal blue waters below the magnificent Table Mountain, with the city wrapped around its base. Cape Town has amazing white sandy beaches attract sunbathers and its waves sports enthusiasts, especially surfers. In your spare time, visit the cape peninsular where penguins dive around bathers at the beach, a sight not to be missed. The more adventurous take a trip to see the infamous Great White Shark. If you want to venture further afield why not head to a vineyard to sample some of South Africa’s famous wines.
Details & Costs
- Duration: 2+ weeks
- Cost: starting at £1254 / $1958 for 2 weeks
£410/$639 per week for additional weeks - Requirements: Age 18+
- Location: Cape Town, South Africa
- Working hours: Monday - Friday, 7:45-16:30
- Project availability: Project starts 1st Monday of every month, year round.
- Arrival day: Thursday
What is included
- Accommodation: Shared room in a volunteer house.
- Food: 2 meals per day-Breakfast and dinner. Monday to Friday
- Weekly laundry service
- Airport pick up and drop off from Cape Town Airport
- Training: Healthcare ethics & culture doc, pre-departure info pack, learning reflection manual, 3 day onsite orientation and project induction provided
- Volunteer social event
- Support: 24-hour support from on-site coordinator
- Activities: Staff can help organise extra weekend activities (at extra cost). Trips include: Robben Island, Penguins at Boulder’s Beach and shark diving.
What is not included
- Flights
- Insurance
- Visas
- Police/Government Background Check; US and UK citizens will be processed through Kaya (admin fee applies) all other nationalities must provide local police check.
- Transfer to and from your project.
Easy 4-step application process
APPLY ONLINE
Click here to apply online and pay your application fee to apply for your space on your chosen project. Our advisors will then contact you to guide you through the next steps.
TELEPHONE INTERVIEW
Once we’ve received your application, we’ll review your details and be in touch to arrange your informal telephone interview with your Kaya Placement Advisor.
CONFIRMATION
Following your interview, we will provide you a placement offer. Once you are ready to confirm your placement and dates, you can pay your confirmation fee to book and secure your space.
GET PREPARED
When you have confirmed your project dates we'll send you your Welcome Pack and lots of other helpful information to assist you with preparing for your placement.

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