South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and disability grants for persons Like Anke and Markus.

I (like many other parents of adult disabled children) am facing a very difficult situation, I feel frustrated and overwhelmed in the light of having to change over to a basic bank account for each of my disabled children, or switching to new SASSA disability grant cards before the 20th of March 2025 (both options difficult as my children are profoundly disabled and can therefore not go and open a bank account or que somewhere to sign up for a new SASSA card). 

The challenges parents experience in opening bank accounts for their disabled children (the preferred safe option as opposed to finding a safe ATM every month to withdraw grants), highlight a significant gap in the banking system, as my children cannot go into a bank to open their own bank accounts.

Here's a breakdown of the challenges.  

Why the Bank Account Obstacle Exists:

Should banks not make an exception in situations like this, maybe to get past financial conventional regulations? I know banks are heavily regulated to prevent fraud and money laundering, and that these regulations require in-person verification of the account holder's identity as a standard practice globally. Why can’t a bank do a home visit to verify that the disabled person exists and verify their bona fides and open a bank account for them?

I do not have the financial means to pay for legal services to possibly obtain capacity and power of attorney or a court order:

Banks need to establish that the person opening the account has the legal capacity to do so. In cases where an individual is profoundly disabled, this becomes complex and banks might require a legally recognized power of attorney or court order to authorize a parent or caregiver to act on behalf of the bedridden disabled person.

Protection of Vulnerable Individuals:

I appreciate that there are regulations designed and in place to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation. But the system fails my children (and me), because of a lack of accessibility. The current system does not adequately address the needs of individuals with severe disabilities who cannot physically open their own bank accounts. 

Insufficient Alternatives:

SASSA representatives suggesting bank accounts is helpful, but the system doesn't provide viable alternatives when physical presence is impossible.

Burden on Caregivers:

Caregivers like me and many other parents, especially parents from disadvantaged communities, already face immense burdens. The added stress of navigating complex bureaucratic processes is unacceptable.

Lack of Understanding of Profound Disabilities:

Many people do not understand the complexities of caring for profoundly disabled bedridden individuals.

Possible Solutions (that will cost money):

Exploring legal options in obtaining the services of an attorney who specialise in disability law.

Key Point:

We as elderly parents of severely disabled adult children facing similar challenges in caring for our children need help to continue advocating for our rights to obtain systemic changes that address our needs in easing the burden of caring for our children with severe disabilities.

Thank you

Pieter Labuschagne labusch@loquat.co.za

 

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AND HUMAN RIGHTS.

South African Human Rights Commission

The South African Constitution

South Africa is party to international laws and agreements such as the United

Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) of 2006,

which South Africa ratified in 2007 which means that the country accepts all the

legal obligations that are imposed by this instrument. The CRPD seeks to promote,

protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by persons

with disabilities.

The CRPD defines persons with disabilities to include those who have long term

physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments, which in interaction with

various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an

equal basis. This is a clear recognition that persons with disabilities are equal and

valuable members of society and should be recognised in all aspects of life.

 

 

A Biblical Perspective on Disability is Rooted in Several Key Principles

The Image of God (Imago Dei):

The Bible teaches that all humans, regardless of ability, are created in God's image (Genesis 1:27). This means that every person possesses inherent dignity, worth, and value. Profound disability does not diminish this divine image.

God's Sovereignty and Purpose:

Christians believe that God has a purpose for every life. While the reasons for disability may not always be clear, the Bible teaches that God can use all circumstances for His glory (John 9:3).

Compassion and Care:

Jesus Christ demonstrated immense compassion for those who were suffering or marginalized. Christians are called to follow His example by showing love, care, and support to individuals with profound disabilities and their families. The Bible emphasises the importance of caring for "the least of these" (Matthew 25:40), which includes those who are vulnerable and in need.

The Body of Christ:

The Christian church is described as the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12). This metaphor highlights the interdependence of all believers. People with disabilities and their parents are valued members of the body, and their presence enriches the community.

Not a Result of Sin:

Jesus directly addressed the misconception that disability is a result of personal or parental sin (John 9:1-3). This clarifies that disability is not necessarily a punishment from God.

Hope and Eternal Perspective:

Christian faith offers hope for a future where suffering and disability will be no more (Revelation 21:4). This eternal perspective provides comfort and strength in the face of difficult circumstances.

Key takeaways from a Biblical perspective:

Individuals with profound disabilities are not defined by their limitations but by their inherent value as God's creation. The Christian community has a responsibility to provide practical and spiritual support to persons affected by disability, the disabled person as well as the parents. Disability can be an opportunity for God's love and grace to be displayed.

It's important to note that within Christianity, there are diverse ways of applying these principles. However, the core values of dignity, compassion, and hope remain central.

 

The role of the Church in disability

From a Biblical Christian perspective, the church plays a vital role in supporting families caring for a child with profound disabilities. Here's a breakdown of that role:

Core Biblical Principles.

The Body of Christ:

1 Corinthians 12 emphasizes that the church is a body with diverse members, each essential. This means families with profoundly disabled children are integral parts of the church, and the church is incomplete without them. The church is called to function as a supportive body, with each member caring for the others. 

Love and Compassion:

Jesus's example of compassion for the vulnerable (Matthew 25:31-46) calls the church to actively demonstrate love and care for families facing the unique challenges of profound disability. Galatians 6:2 instructs believers to "carry each other's burdens," which is especially relevant for these families.

Serving "the Least of These":

Matthew 25:40 reminds Christians that serving those in need is equivalent to serving Christ himself. This includes providing practical and emotional support to families caring for profoundly disabled children.

Practical Roles of the Church:

Providing practical support like respite care. Offering temporary relief to parents as caregivers like occasional meal preparation and delivery. Assistance with transportation as and if needed. Help with household chores. Financial assistance and/or resource guidance. Offering emotional and spiritual support, as needed and requested from time to time. 

Providing a supportive community where families feel accepted and understood. Offering prayer and spiritual guidance. Creating support groups for parents and siblings.

Providing counselling and emotional support. Promoting inclusion and belonging for parents, make special efforts in reaching out to parents of disabled children. Checking in with parents from time to time in person or via a phone call. 

Educating the congregation about disability awareness and what members can do to support parents. Encouraging meaningful participation in church activities. Helping parents to feel a sense of belonging. Helping church members understand the theological truths of the Imago Dei, and that all life is valuable. Helping church members understand that disability is not the result of sin.

Advocacy:

Being a voice for families and individuals with disabilities in the community. Promoting accessibility and inclusion in society.

In essence, the church is called to be a loving, supportive, and inclusive community that walks alongside families caring for profoundly disabled children, providing ongoing practical and spiritual support.