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Make a Real Difference in Young Lives – Apply Today
If you are passionate about working with children and youth and want a meaningful career in social services, the Child and Youth Care Worker position at the Western Cape Government Department of Social Development is a powerful opportunity in 2026.
These permanent positions are available across multiple secure care centres in the Western Cape and are ideal for individuals committed to care, rehabilitation, and youth development.
📅 Closing Date: 04 May 2026
📌 Reference: DSD 17/2026 (WCG260317-3)
💼 Job Type: Permanent
📍 Locations:
- Bonnytoun Secure Care Centre
- Clanwilliam Secure Care Centre
- Horizon Secure Care Centre
- Lindelani Secure Care Centre
- Vredelus Secure Care Centre
🧾 Job Overview
The role focuses on providing care and developmental support to children, youth, and individuals in need of care or in conflict with the law.
Main Purpose:
- Deliver daily care and supervision
- Support developmental and rehabilitation programmes
- Promote positive behavior and growth
This is a people-focused role that requires compassion, patience, and professionalism.
Why This Job Is a Meaningful Opportunity
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Working with the Western Cape Government offers:
- ✔ Permanent government employment
- ✔ Opportunity to make a real social impact
- ✔ Career growth in social services
- ✔ Structured professional environment
🛠️ Key Responsibilities
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1. Care and Support
- Receive and assist children and youth after admission
- Provide daily care and supervision
- Build supportive relationships
2. Development Programmes
- Plan and implement developmental activities
- Support sports, arts, and recreation programmes
- Encourage participation and personal growth
3. Monitoring and Evaluation
- Observe and assess progress
- Monitor behaviour and development
- Adjust care plans where needed
4. Coordination and Referrals
- Work with social workers and professionals
- Refer cases for additional support services
- Maintain records (appointment registers, reports)
5. Administrative Duties
- Complete reports and documentation
- Maintain records and files
- Support clerical tasks
🎯 Skills and Competencies
To succeed in this role, you need strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
Key Skills:
- Communication and teamwork
- Conflict resolution
- Report writing
- Planning and organisation
Personal Qualities:
- Compassion and empathy
- Patience and resilience
- Professional conduct
- Commitment to helping others
🎓 Minimum Requirements
To apply, you must have:
- Grade 12 (Senior Certificate)
Experience Levels:
- Grade 1: No experience required
- Grade 2: Minimum 10 years relevant experience
Additional Requirements:
- Valid Code B driver’s licence (or access to transport if disabled)
💰 Salary and Benefits
Grade 1:
- R184,320 – R206,802 per year
Grade 2:
- R215,181 – R243,750 per year
These packages may include:
- 13th cheque
- Pension contributions
- Medical assistance
- Housing benefits
📍 Work Environment
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You will work in:
- Secure care centres
- Residential facilities
- Structured environments
This role involves:
- Direct interaction with youth
- Emotional and social support work
- Team collaboration
📈 Career Growth Opportunities
This role can lead to:
- Senior Child and Youth Care Worker
- Social Work roles
- Programme coordination positions
⚖️ Employment Equity
The Western Cape Government promotes:
- Equal opportunity employment
- Diversity and inclusion
- Opportunities for persons with disabilities
⚠️ Important Notes
- Background checks and criminal vetting required
- Practical assessments may be conducted
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- No application fees required
📞 Support Helpline: 086 137 0214
📝 How to Apply
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Application Steps:
- Prepare your updated CV
- Include supporting documents
- Apply online via Western Cape Government portal
- Submit before 04 May 2026
💡 Tips to Get Hired
- Show your passion for helping youth
- Highlight any community or care experience
- Demonstrate strong communication skills
- Be prepared for interviews and assessments
🔚 Final Thoughts
The Child and Youth Care Worker position is more than just a job—it’s a chance to change lives and support vulnerable individuals.
If you are committed to making a difference, this is your opportunity.
👉 Apply Now
Don’t miss this opportunity with the Western Cape Government.
Apply today and start your journey in social development.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Skhumbuzo Shandu is the founder of Careers With Shandu, a platform dedicated to helping South Africans access job opportunities, learnerships, and career development resources.
He focuses on sharing clear, practical, and up-to-date information to help matriculants, graduates, and job seekers navigate applications and build their careers.
Through his work, he aims to make opportunities easier to understand and accessible to everyone, especially young people entering the workforce.
