The Open Circle, a pioneering residential home for adults with intellectual disability and challenging behaviour, recently marked its 10th anniversary — a milestone that highlights a decade of dedicated service and innovation in adult residential care in South Africa.
Founded in 2015 as a modest pilot project in partnership with the Western Cape Departments of Health and Social Development, The Open Circle has grown into a vital non-profit organisation (NPO) providing medium to high care for 30 adult residents. The facility is situated within the Alexandra Hospital precinct in Maitland, Cape Town, and serves individuals often excluded from other care programmes due to the complexity of their needs.
The anniversary celebration, held at Rondebosch Golf Club, brought together long-standing partners, donors, volunteers, staff, and government officials — including Western Cape Minister of Social Development Jaco Londt — to honour the organisation’s work and its evolving impact. The event was not only a celebration but a reflection on a model that many believe has set a new standard for adult care in the country.
A Decade of Meaningful Change
Since its inception, The Open Circle has focused on improving the quality of life for its residents by fostering independence, community integration, and individual development. Facility Manager Helita Mankahla paid tribute to the commitment of the staff and the broader Open Circle community.
“From the beginning, The Open Circle has been unwavering in its commitment to provide quality care to our vulnerable residents,” said Mankahla. “We believe that we have created a blueprint for an effective care service for adults with intellectual disability and challenging behaviour, as well as a model for how various stakeholders can come together to implement solutions.”
Among the notable outcomes celebrated at the anniversary event were:
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Residents demonstrating significantly improved behaviour after being excluded from other programmes.
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Participation in community activities, increasing visibility and integration.
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Development of life skills such as self-care and, for some, the ability to work and earn wages.
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The therapeutic success of animal-assisted interventions, including monthly visits from Top Dog Therapy.
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A marked decrease in acute hospital admissions, with most medical support now provided by Alexandra Hospital on an outpatient basis.
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Successful reintegration of some residents with their families and communities.
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A dedicated team, many of whom have been with the organisation since its launch and have grown into leaders in the field.
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Renewed hope and emotional relief for families, who had previously experienced burnout and despair.
Looking Ahead
As it enters its second decade, The Open Circle is preparing to broaden its reach. Plans are underway to introduce smaller group homes, establish a day programme, and develop a community-based outreach service aimed at supporting families with children who exhibit challenging behaviours.
The organisation’s forward-looking approach underscores its commitment to systemic change in the care of adults with intellectual disability — not just in the Western Cape, but across South Africa.
