Enkele finansiële knelpunte in 'n kliniek vir alkoholafhanklikes

Abstract

M.A. (Social Work)The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether the manner in which the management tasks of planning and control are executed in a clinic for the treatment of alcohol dependents. influences the development of financial problems in the conduct of the affairs of such a clinic. The study was motivated by many years experience of a social worker at such clinics. In view of the paucity of research in this field, an exploratory study was undertaken. Research methods included: comparison of selected financial aspects in respect of two financial years, vis 1973/74 and 1983/8'4; a scrutiny of files for confidential information; and an examination of annual reports. The main hypothesis - although this hypothesis was not tested in an experimental manner - was found to be valid. The manner in which the management tasks of planning and control were executed determined the nature of the development of the following financial problems: inaccurate computation of subsidies; fund-raising not related to objectives in terms of the constitution; uncontrolled escalation in expenditure; failure, on the part of committees, to permit an appropriate delegation of powers; inadequate functioning of the social worker; and insufficient liaison with Council. Some of the recommendations made to rectify the situation were as follows : that an in-depth analysis of the subsidisation of clinics for the treatment of alcohol dependents be undertaken; that modern methods of fund-raising be studied and applied; that social workers Iike a personal effort to broaden their knowledge of financial matters, since this will greatly benefit the agencies employing them