Abstract
M.A. (Social Work)
The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether the manner in which the management tasks of planning and control are executed in a clinic for the
treatment of alcohol dependents. influences the development of financial problems
in the conduct of the affairs of such a clinic. The study was motivated by many years experience of a social worker at such clinics.
In view of the paucity of research in this field, an exploratory study was undertaken. Research methods included:
comparison of selected financial aspects in respect of two financial years, vis 1973/74 and 1983/8'4;
a scrutiny of files for confidential information; and an examination of annual reports.
The main hypothesis - although this hypothesis was not tested in an experimental
manner - was found to be valid. The manner in which the management tasks of
planning and control were executed determined the nature of the development of
the following financial problems:
inaccurate computation of subsidies;
fund-raising not related to objectives in terms of the constitution;
uncontrolled escalation in expenditure;
failure, on the part of committees, to permit an appropriate delegation of powers;
inadequate functioning of the social worker; and insufficient liaison with Council.
Some of the recommendations made to rectify the situation were as follows :
that an in-depth analysis of the subsidisation of clinics for the treatment of alcohol dependents be undertaken;
that modern methods of fund-raising be studied and applied; that social workers Iike a personal effort to broaden their knowledge of financial matters, since this will greatly benefit the agencies employing them.