Is there an alternative to the disability grant?
 

Author:

Y Basson
 

Summary:

In South Africa, disability grants are paid to qualifying applicants between 18 and 59 who live with a disability and are unable to work. More than half the total number of persons with disabilities in South Africa currently receive the disability grant. This means that more than half of the persons with disabilities in South Africa are unable to find work. This article considers whether the number of disability grants currently paid is sustainable, considering that money for social grants is not infinite. The article also points out that there are real employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, but that the state needs to assist these people to find and make use of these employment opportunities. Persons with disabilities should be given the opportunity to do meaningful work, earn a salary and not having to depend on the low benefits of the disability grant for income. Examples of state-run employment opportunities for persons with disabilities that are not being used to their full potential, such as the Expanded Public Works Programme and the Youth Employment Service, are examined and proffered as possible sustainable solutions to the problem of the disability grant.


Link to Journal Article