In Conversation With Tasneem (Guild Cottage Social Worker)

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Located in Parktown West, Johannesburg, Guild Cottage is the only specialised residential treatment centre in Gauteng dedicated to girls aged 6–18 who have experienced extreme sexual and emotional abuse. Registered as a Child and Youth Care Centre, the organisation offers:
• Court-appointed residential care for up to 18 girls at any time
• Intensive therapy: psychotherapy, environmental therapy, and family intervention
• Individualised schooling support, including placement in suitable schools when needed
• A safe, nurturing, homestyle living environment where dignity, healing, and empowerment are prioritised
With roots dating back to 1907, Guild Cottage began as a home for orphaned children and has evolved into a leader in trauma recovery and child protection services in South Africa. The building itself is recognised as a heritage site by the City of Johannesburg

“Save Guild Cottage” – BackaBuddy Fundraising Campaign
Guild Cottage is actively fundraising through BackaBuddy to ensure they can continue their essential residential and therapeutic care:
• The campaign aims to raise approximately R100,000 to support ongoing operations of the facility.
• Funding goes directly toward day-to-day expenses including therapy, education costs, food, clothing, toiletries, linen, and other basics
• At any given moment, the facility serves up to 18 court-appointed girls who are survivors of severe abuse—each donation helps maintain their safety and emotional recovery
• Donors may receive a Section 18A tax certificate, offering tax relief while supporting vulnerable youths

Why It Matters
• Guild Cottage is the only facility in Gauteng that provides specialised residential care exclusively for sexually abused girls.
• The work they do utilizes internationally recognised best practices in trauma recovery, offering not only safety, but also long-term emotional and educational support
• Community and donor support ensures the continuation of this legacy service that’s been active for over 115 years.

How You Can Help
• Visit the BackaBuddy “Save Guild Cottage” campaign page to donate.
• Share the campaign with your network to boost visibility and support.
• Request a Section 18A certificate after donating for a tax deduction benefit.
• Spread the word via social media to help sustain this vital work.
6 Aug 2025 English South Africa Entertainment News · Music Interviews

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