Empowering volunteer caregivers working with foster families : the design, implementation and evaluation of a training programme.

Abstract

This study aimed to design, implement and evaluate a training programme to empower volunteer community caregivers working with foster families in the rural area of Ndwedwe, KwaZulu-Natal. The location of the study was at Ward 11 Sonkombo area which falls under Ndwedwe Local Municipality. The context of the research was a Non-governmental organization (NGO), the Zikhuliseni Traditional Development. The overall aim of the study was to design, implement and evaluate a training programme to empower volunteer community caregivers working with foster families in the rural area of Ndwedwe, KwaZulu-Natal. The objectives of this study were to: To determine the challenges facing volunteers in their work as community care givers. To develop and implement a programme aimed to address these challenges. To evaluate implemented programme. The research methodology utilized was The Adapted Intervention Research Model (Strydom, Steyn and Strydom: 2007). The participants of this study were seven volunteers who do voluntary work at the above mentioned organisation as well as the project manager. The study began by conducting need assessment with the participants. Secondly, the programme was designed and implemented. Thirdly, the implemented programme was evaluated. Data collection tools were a semi-structured interview, individual questionnaires and a focus group. The theoretical framework that guided this study was the empowerment theory. Findings of this study in relation to the objectives of the study revealed that the motivation of volunteering in this organization was mainly based on egoistic needs for money and the opportunities for self-improvement. No training had been provided for the volunteers. The implemented training programme was successful in empowering the volunteers. Recommendations regarding improving volunteers services are made.