Hospital management at New Somerset Hospital has confirmed that they are reviewing internal procedures regarding the care and support of infants classified as social cases. This follows public concern regarding the long-term placement of children who remain in clinical care after medical treatment is concluded, often due to pending placement by social services.
A spokesperson for the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness confirmed that while the hospital provides medical and paediatric support, the facility is not a residential institution. The department maintains that infants who are medically cleared for discharge but lack a suitable home environment remain under the care of the hospital while provincial social services finalise placement options.
As of 09:00 today, the Cape Flats news desk contacted the facility’s administration to verify claims regarding local volunteer programmes meant to assist these infants. We are currently checking with SAPS Western Cape and the provincial Department of Social Development to confirm if there are any new protocols regarding the protection and monitoring of these children.
It remains unclear how many infants are currently classified as social cases at the facility or what the average duration of their stay is. We are awaiting further official data from the hospital’s management and will provide an update once a formal response is received.