, PLEASE USE THIS DOCUMENT AS A GUIDE ONLY
TABLE OF CONTENT
SECTION A: CASE WORK Page 3
SECTION B: GROUP WORK Page 8
SECTION C: COMMUNITY WORK Page 16
, SECTION A: CASE WORK
Question 1: Sustainable Livelihoods Approach
1.1 Analyse the human, social, physical, natural, public and financial assets available to the
Dlamini family. Support your discussion with examples from the case study.
The Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA) is a people-centred, holistic method for understanding
the assets and strengths that individuals and families can use to build their livelihoods (Lombard,
2019b:179; BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 15).
1. Human Assets
Human assets refer to the skills, knowledge, health, and physical capacity that enable a person to
work and pursue livelihood strategies (Lombard, 2019b:183; BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Skills and Knowledge: Ms Dlamini possesses valuable sewing and clothing production skills, a
tangible asset that forms a potential basis for an income-generating project. Her expressed
interest in starting a small sewing business demonstrates her willingness to use these skills
proactively. Thabo has basic computer skills, an asset that could enhance his employability in a
modern economy. Lerato performs well academically, representing a significant future asset.
Health: The case study does not indicate any major health issues affecting the family's ability
to work, suggesting they have the physical capacity to engage in livelihood activities.
Work Ethic and Aspirations: Ms Dlamini demonstrates resilience by taking on occasional
repair work. Lerato's ambition to attend university is a crucial human asset that can drive her
development and improve the family's long-term prospects. However, Thabo's discouragement
and association with a negative peer group represent a degradation of his human capital.
2. Social Assets
Social assets are the social resources—such as networks, relationships, and membership in
groups—that people can draw upon for support (Lombard, 2019b:183; BSW4802, Study Guide, p.
27).
Formal Networks: The family’s involvement in a local church provides them with a crucial
social asset. The church offers emotional support and occasional practical assistance, creating a
safety net and a sense of community. Ms Dlamini is a member of a women's savings group
(stokvel). This is a powerful social and financial asset that provides mutual support and a
potential source of informal credit.
Family Support: The family structure itself is a social asset. Lerato assists her grandfather and
cares for other children, contributing to the household's functioning. Mr Dlamini’s presence,
while financially limited, provides stability.
Community Ties: The Dlamini family has established connections within the community,
which could be leveraged. The community's discussion about establishing vegetable gardens
presents an opportunity for the family to build new social connections around a shared goal.
TABLE OF CONTENT
SECTION A: CASE WORK Page 3
SECTION B: GROUP WORK Page 8
SECTION C: COMMUNITY WORK Page 16
, SECTION A: CASE WORK
Question 1: Sustainable Livelihoods Approach
1.1 Analyse the human, social, physical, natural, public and financial assets available to the
Dlamini family. Support your discussion with examples from the case study.
The Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA) is a people-centred, holistic method for understanding
the assets and strengths that individuals and families can use to build their livelihoods (Lombard,
2019b:179; BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 15).
1. Human Assets
Human assets refer to the skills, knowledge, health, and physical capacity that enable a person to
work and pursue livelihood strategies (Lombard, 2019b:183; BSW4802, Study Guide, p. 27).
Skills and Knowledge: Ms Dlamini possesses valuable sewing and clothing production skills, a
tangible asset that forms a potential basis for an income-generating project. Her expressed
interest in starting a small sewing business demonstrates her willingness to use these skills
proactively. Thabo has basic computer skills, an asset that could enhance his employability in a
modern economy. Lerato performs well academically, representing a significant future asset.
Health: The case study does not indicate any major health issues affecting the family's ability
to work, suggesting they have the physical capacity to engage in livelihood activities.
Work Ethic and Aspirations: Ms Dlamini demonstrates resilience by taking on occasional
repair work. Lerato's ambition to attend university is a crucial human asset that can drive her
development and improve the family's long-term prospects. However, Thabo's discouragement
and association with a negative peer group represent a degradation of his human capital.
2. Social Assets
Social assets are the social resources—such as networks, relationships, and membership in
groups—that people can draw upon for support (Lombard, 2019b:183; BSW4802, Study Guide, p.
27).
Formal Networks: The family’s involvement in a local church provides them with a crucial
social asset. The church offers emotional support and occasional practical assistance, creating a
safety net and a sense of community. Ms Dlamini is a member of a women's savings group
(stokvel). This is a powerful social and financial asset that provides mutual support and a
potential source of informal credit.
Family Support: The family structure itself is a social asset. Lerato assists her grandfather and
cares for other children, contributing to the household's functioning. Mr Dlamini’s presence,
while financially limited, provides stability.
Community Ties: The Dlamini family has established connections within the community,
which could be leveraged. The community's discussion about establishing vegetable gardens
presents an opportunity for the family to build new social connections around a shared goal.
