Silapha Wellness Programme saves lives

The Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, has encouraged all South African creatives and athletes to register for free counselling and support through the Silapha Wellness Programme.

The programme was initiated in 2022 to support artists and athletes with critical access to well-being support. 

It provides those in the creative and sporting industries access to a 24/7/365 call centre for counselling and support services.

The beneficiaries receive information and education on key wellbeing matters including mental health, substance abuse, financial well-being, legal guidance and nutrition.

“This service gives creatives and athletes the support and guidance they need to thrive,” said the Minister.

He added that there was a need for those who engage in the creative and sporting fields - many of whom do not have permanent employment or healthcare support – for counselling services, education and community support around well-being matters that heavily impact them.

He stated that the country has lost too many valuable people within the creative and sports communities, as they simply did not have access to the support that they needed.

The Silapha Wellness Programme aims to develop a strong net of support and critical intervention to ensure that lives are not lost and that access to critical support is easily accessible and effective.

Minister Kodwa encouraged the creative and sporting community to make full use of this service, with the hope that those who face challenges receive the support and guidance they need to thrive.