The Department of Employment and Labour, in collaboration with the eThekwini Municipality, is bringing critical services directly to the community through its “Taking Services to the People” campaign. This initiative focuses on improving access to employment and labour-related services for residents of eThekwini Municipality and surrounding areas, especially those in the northern, southern, and central regions of Durban. The event will take place at Gugu Dlamini Park on December 7 and 8, 2024, from 08:00 to 15:00.
This outreach campaign underscores the government’s commitment to empowering communities by ensuring essential services are accessible, particularly for those who may face barriers in accessing traditional government offices.
What Services Will Be Provided?
The workshop will offer a range of services aimed at addressing the needs of workers, job seekers, and employers. These include support from three key programmes under the Department of Employment and Labour:
- Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF):
- Maternity Benefit: Assistance for new mothers to claim maternity leave benefits.
- Unemployment Benefit: Help for individuals who are unemployed to claim UIF payouts.
- Death Benefit: Support for families to claim benefits for a deceased breadwinner.
- Illness Benefit: Assistance for employees unable to work due to illness.
- Adoption Benefit: Help for adoptive parents in accessing relevant benefits.
- Dependent’s Benefit: Aid for dependents of deceased contributors.
- Public Employment Services (PES):
- Registration on ESSA Database: Individuals seeking employment will be registered on the Employment System of South Africa (ESSA), a vital tool for job matching.
- Career Counselling: Guidance on career pathways and skill development.
- Job Seeking Skills: Tips and techniques to help job seekers improve their employability.
- CV Writing Skills: Professional advice on creating impactful resumes.
- Psychometric Assessments: Tools to help identify strengths and suitable career options.
- Interview Preparatory Tactics: Strategies to ace job interviews.
- Compensation Fund (CF):
- Registration of Claims: Assistance for employees injured or who fell ill at work to register their claims.
- Assessment of Queries: Help resolving compensation fund-related issues.
- Letter of Good Standing: Issuance for compliant employers.
- Registration of Companies: Facilitation of business registrations for compliance.
- Payment of CF Benefits: Ensuring claims are processed and payments are made.
- Pension Enquiries: Assistance with accessing pension-related information and benefits.
Why This Event Matters
The “Taking Services to the People” campaign brings hope and convenience to many individuals in Durban who may struggle with accessing these critical services. By taking the services directly to the community, the Department of Employment and Labour bridges the gap between government support and the people who need it most.
Unemployment remains a significant issue in South Africa, and this initiative ensures that individuals are not only aware of the services available but also receive direct assistance in accessing them. The workshop aims to empower attendees by offering tools and resources that enhance their employability and financial security.
Related: Gauteng Provincial Office of the Department of Employment and Labour Is Moving in 2025
What to Bring to the Event
To ensure a smooth process, attendees are encouraged to bring the following:
- A valid ID card or book.
- Medical reports or certificates (if applicable).
- Employment details.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Any other relevant documents for claims or registrations.
This documentation will assist in the efficient processing of claims, registrations, and consultations.
Event Details at a Glance
- Venue: Gugu Dlamini Park (Workshop)
- Date: December 7–8, 2024
- Time: 08:00–15:00
This is an excellent opportunity for residents to access government services without having to travel far or navigate complex bureaucratic processes.
The Department of Employment and Labour’s initiative to bring services directly to the people is a much-needed intervention in the eThekwini Municipality. Events like these demonstrate the government’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and accessible environment for all citizens. If you or someone you know could benefit from these services, make sure to attend this vital event.
Together, let’s take steps toward a more empowered and supported workforce in South Africa.
