This occurs when caregivers lack the capacity and/or commitment to adequately care for their children. The reasons for the risk of family breakdown vary from one community setting to another, but are mainly a result of poverty, domestic violence, disease or disability (of the children or caregiver), natural disasters, armed conflict or ethnic discrimination.
Before establishing a family strengthening programme, SOS Children’s Villages assesses the main risk factors in a given community to pinpoint a particular target group. In Latin America and Asia, for example, single mother-headed families form the main target group; in Sub-Saharan Africa, the supported families are primarily those affected by HIV/AIDS. In the fight against HIV/AIDS SOS Medical Centres play an important role. They offer tests and counselling, explain the risks of infection and channel free or inexpensive antiretroviral medication, provided for through government programmes. The medical centres generally provide basic medical care for the local population through vaccine programmes, childbirth facilities, guidance on nutrition and hygiene, or first-aid courses. SOS Children’s Villages also operates mother-and-child clinics, hospitals and dental clinics.
The aim of family strengthening programmes is to empower families to better protect and care for their children. When developing such a programme, SOS Social Centres combine their efforts with like-minded partners and those who provide complementary services and resources to have a greater impact on the lives of the children. Local communities, for instance, are a direct source of support for vulnerable children and their families and that is why the establishment of community safety nets is a central part of family strengthening programmes. At the same time, governments and other duty bearers are encouraged to meet their obligations, to respect, protect and fulfil the rights of children.