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Exploring the Impact of the 2020 COVID‐19 Adjusted Lockdown on Social Workers at a Gender‐Based Violence Command Centre in Pretoria, Gauteng

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: In South Africa and across many regions globally, adjusted lockdowns were implemented as a measure to curb the spread of COVID-19. These lockdowns had a significant effect on gender-based violence (GBV). Victims, often confined with their abusers, faced limited access to support services. Simultaneously, healthcare workers, including those at the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC), were at the forefront of the pandemic response, dealing with both COVID-19 and GBV cases. Method: A phenomenological approach was used to collect data from nine social workers at the GBVCC in South Africa. Semistructured interviews were conducted, guided by an interview protocol. Data were analyzed using Tesch's framework for thematic analysis. Results: The findings revealed that social workers faced mental health challenges, including anxiety, stress, and fear of death, during the adjusted lockdown. Many relied on family and friends for emotional support. The work environment was notably challenging, and this, in turn, affected their job performance. Conclusion: The adjusted lockdown had a profound impact on social workers at the GBVCC, affecting both their personal well-being and professional responsibilities. Many reported experiencing poor mental health and a disruption in work-life balance during this period.

Source: Public Health Challenges

DOI: 10.1002/puh2.70137

Authors: Qebo Ignatia Nkosi, Leane Ramsoomar

Institutions: University of Pretoria, South African Medical Research Council

Language: English

Topic: Social Work Education and Practice

Subfield: Public Administration

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth, Gender equality, Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,650