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Answers to your questions

Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.

Please note: GroundUp is just a news agency. We are not lawyers or financial advisors, and we have nothing to do with SASSA, Home Affairs, or any other government bodies. We do our best to make the answers accurate using publicly available information, but we cannot accept any legal liability if there are errors. If you notice any discrepancies, please email [email protected].

Are there recent updates on Groote Schuur Hospital’s request to reclassify SRS/bottom surgery as a quaternary service?

Groote Schuur’s request to reclassify SRS as a quaternary service was approved in 2019, but national funding and implementation are yet to follow. There’s a long waitlist.

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My disability grant application was declined in June 2025 despite submitting all required documents. I have been medically boarded from work. Please help!

Your disability grant may have been declined because your medical form was outdated. You need to submit a recent report and appeal.

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My son was involved in a road accident, but the RAF says it will only cover the hospital bills, what should I do?

You can claim RAF general damages if a doctor confirms your son’s head injury caused serious long-term mental or behavioural issues.

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The government pension fund won’t process my child’s claim without an affidavit from a relative we don't know, despite proof of support and a willing extended family.

You may still claim from the GEPF by proving financial dependence and trying to involve the brother through a meeting, affidavit, or sworn statements from other relatives.

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How can I challenge or nullify an affidavit which was signed under false pretenses?

Make a sworn affidavit stating all the facts, take a copy of your nephew's affidavit to a lawyer for legal help.

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How can we help a child get a birth certificate if the mother refuses to assist and he needs to attend a special school?

You could ask if the social workers are able to apply for a birth certificate for the child if the mother is unable or unwilling to do it.

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I’m the fideicommissary heir but my sister won’t give me the keys to our home after our mom, the surviving spouse, died. What can I do?

If the will names you as the fideicommissary heir, you may have a legal right to the property. Consult the Master’s Office for help.

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I was abandoned by my parents, and don't have an ID or proof of birth documents. How can I apply for an ID on my own?

If your birth was registered, you can get a copy of your birth certificate from Home Affairs. If not, you will need to apply through the Late Registration of Birth process.

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We are struggling to pay school fees. The school has just handed us over to the sheriff's department. What can we do?

If you can't afford school fees, you should apply for a fee exemption or negotiate a payment plan before legal action is taken.

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Home Affairs “lost” my spouse’s permanent residency application, now he is facing deportation. What can we do?

If an application for permanent residency is wrongfully rejected, you can apply to the Director-General of Home Affairs to review the decision.

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