Social Work Policy Manager: Grade 1 REF NO: L1/C/2026 at Department of Social Development

REQUIREMENTS :

• An appropriate recognised Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification. Registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) as a Social Worker plus ten (10) years’ appropriate experience in social work after registration as Social Worker with the SACSSP of which five (5) years must be appropriate experience in social work policy development. Knowledge of the relevant Public Service legislation.

DUTIES :

• Develop, facilitate, monitor and support the implementation of policies, legislation, strategies, guidelines and programmes aimed at prevention, response, care, support, healing and empowering victims of crime and violence, with specific focus on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). Coordinate and oversee the funding, compliance and capacity building of national NPOs delivering Victim Empowerment Programme (VEP) services.
• Lead and facilitate the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF, including oversight on service delivery by NPOs in the VEP sector, strengthening referral pathways and improving intersectoral coordination. Establish and support the operationalization of Khuseleka One Stop Centres and (GBV) shelters, ensuring alignment with policy frameworks and service delivery standards.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of intersectoral sheltering services in districts, province and local level, ensuring compliance, quality service delivery and continuous improvement of services to victims and survivors of GBV. Consult and liaise with key stakeholders across government, civil society and other sectors to enhance collaboration, partnerships and programme effectiveness including social crime prevention programmes/interventions in the VEP space.
• Mainstream VEP services within and outside the department, participate in strategic forums, and consolidate reports in line with national priorities. Manage and ensure effective functioning of the policy unit through efficient utilisation of resources, adherence to regulatory frameworks, and continuous research to inform policy development and programme improvement.