F.A.S.D — Western Cape
A collaborative network of government departments, NGOs, researchers and healthcare professionals united in the prevention and awareness of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders across the Western Cape and South Africa.
Year the FAS reference group was established
FASD is preventable — no alcohol means no FASD
International FASD Awareness Day
Western Cape provincial health priority 2001–2002
History
A Western Cape Provincial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) reference and working group was established following a strategic meeting on provincial level in 2001. FAS was declared a provincial health priority between 2001 and 2002 by the then MEC of Health.
The group was chaired by the provincial Maternal, Child and Women's Health Deputy Director, with members selected from the Department of Social Services, Department of Education, FAS regional coordinators in the Department of Health, and academic and NGO partners.
Since 2006 the group was no longer chaired by the Provincial Department of Health, but continued operating as a network consisting mainly of the NGO sector and researchers committed to the prevention of FASD.
Key Milestones
2001
Western Cape Provincial FAS reference and working group established following a strategic provincial meeting.
2001 – 2002
FAS declared a Western Cape provincial health priority by the MEC of Health.
2006
Group transitions from provincial government leadership to NGO and research-sector driven network — the WC FASD Network — continuing collaborative prevention work.
Ongoing
Annual International FASD Day events, training workshops, conferences, website maintenance, and Facebook awareness updates continue under the WC FASD Network.
Network Members & Partners
City of Cape Town
Health Department
Department of Social Services
Department of Education
Department of Health
FAS Regional Coordinators
University of Stellenbosch
Geneticist
University of Cape Town
Neuro-Developmental Paediatrician
FARR
Foundation for Alcohol Related Research
Dopstop
NGO Partner
Medical Research Council
Pebbles Organization
Various government departments
and organisations across the Western Cape
Achievements
A FAS training manual for health care workers, educators, school psychologists, social workers and other professionals working with people with FASD and their families.
Awareness posters designed and distributed creating awareness about the dangers of drinking during pregnancy.
FASD Conferences attended by international and local guests, the Departments of Health, Education and Social Services, NGOs and others.
International FASD Day — 9 September annual public awareness events bringing together communities and stakeholders.
Training Workshops and annual international FASD public awareness events for professionals and communities.
Setting up this FASD website for South Africa to allow international contacts and local supporters to follow developments in FASD work and research.
Setting up the FASDSA Facebook page for regular updates, awareness campaigns, and community engagement.
The Network Today
The WC FASD Network and its predecessors — the FAS reference group and the FASD Task Team — have worked collaboratively on many successful projects in recent years. The network continues to grow and adapt, always with a focus on prevention, education and support.
The WC FASD Network consists of members from the City of Cape Town, various government departments and organisations, all of whom either work in the field or have some interest in making a difference within the field of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.
Whether you are a professional, caregiver, or someone interested in FASD awareness — we welcome your support and participation.