The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has urged women and people with disabilities to remain vigilant against financial abuse during the festive season.
The department raised concern over the increased risk of financial exploitation targeting women and persons with disabilities during this period.
The department explained that financial abuse can take various forms, including controlling access to money, misusing income or social grants, forcing individuals into debt under their names, and exploiting economic dependence.
According to the DWYPD, perpetrators often intensify these tactics during the festive season, leaving women and persons with disabilities financially trapped and burdened with debt.
The department emphasised that economic abuse is recognised as a form of domestic violence under South African law and urged women and persons with disabilities to remain alert.
“We must recognise that financial abuse is not only an economic violation; it is a form of control and intimidation used to silence women and persons with disabilities. During the festive season, when financial pressures increase, so does the risk,” the department said.
The department also called on families and communities to remain vigilant, supportive, and protective of the rights of women and persons with disabilities.
The department noted that many women and persons with disabilities are often denied access to their own salaries, bonuses, savings, and government benefits during this time.
“Many are also pressured to cover holiday expenses while partners or family members misuse household funds.”
To address the growing concern, the department called for:
• Increased community awareness on recognising and reporting financial abuse.
• Closer collaboration between government departments, banks, and social services to detect and prevent financial exploitation.
• Protection of social grants and income from misuse by partners or family members.
• Strengthened economic empowerment programmes for women, especially women with disabilities.
The department further reminded South Africans that gender-based violence (GBV) is not only physical.
“Financial control is a powerful tool of oppression. Let us work together to ensure women, especially women with disabilities, remain safe, supported, and financially independent,” the department said.
Members of the public who suspect financial exploitation are urged to report it to the relevant authorities and ensure that women, particularly women with disabilities, receive the necessary support to protect their independence and dignity. – SAnews.gov.za
