Investigations into alleged mismanagement at the Bright Lights Children’s Shelter in Somerset West are ongoing, and CEO Helene Wilson has assured that any transgressions found will be acted on swiftly and fairly.
“At the same time we are also focusing on our ability to attract suitably qualified employees, board members and volunteers who will ensure good corporate governance,” she said.
This follows reports of unaccountability of resources and food shortages among dozens of other complaints, which were brought to the community’s attention by several former employees (“Bright Lights dim”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 22 June).
Bright Lights is a care centre for children aged eight to 18 years in the Helderberg basin and registered non-profit organisation and public benefit organisation. It falls under the ambit of ACVV, a designated protection organisation rendering social services to children, families and older persons.
Since April this year several whistle-blowers have come forward and sounded the alarm on a multitude of alleged irregularities. All are previous employees and claim they were never given payslips, some were paid R1 000 a month with no contract, forced to work 12 hour shifts and allegations that funds received from the provincial Department of Social Development monthly was unaccounted for.
Wilson noted that the government subsidy received per child does not cover the full unit cost of a child in the care of Bright Lights, and this is why the centre continues to rely on fundraising initiatives.
“All available funding and fundraising are directly applied to the care of the beneficiaries, the children, in terms of health, nutrition, safety and well-being.”
Wilson dismissed allegations of a shortage of toiletries and other personal hygiene items.
Asked about a pool table sponsored to the centre that was sold, Wilson explained a generous donor had provided the item and, after meaningful engagement with the donor, a decision was taken that the income generated from its sale would do more for the beneficiaries.
Wilson assured that the children have been provided with various items, such as a gaming console and books, while they also play sport as a means of keeping active.
Asked about the high number of resignations over the past few months, Wilson replied: “We cannot deny that there has been mismanagement, which has created a level of uncertainty for employees and resulting in resignations. To ensure compliance and good governance at the time, and in future, disciplinary action was also taken against some individuals, whose employement was terminated after due process was followed in terms of labour law.”
In response to questions about the poor condition of the building, which urgently requires maintenance, Wilson said contractors are conducting assessments and a 12-month project is in place to address the issue.
“The only reason for [the centre’s] existence is to ensure the safe and proper care of these children in our protection,” she said. “In terms of the Protection of Personal Information Act, however, we are unable to provide details of any particular child as they are in our care as a result of a court placement.
“We can, however, assure [the community] that the best interest of each child in our care is our only priority.”
Wilson added they have had much support from communities of the Helderberg.
“It warms my heart that so many people are taking a positive attitude and helping where they can. Thank you so much. The community is welcome to contact me should they wish to assist.”
V To donate to the Bright Lights Children’s Shelter, or for enquiries about the facility and its work, Wilson can be contacted on 074 558 9356.
