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Researching and Writing

At SANCA National, research is more than a priority — it’s a passion. Our commitment to evidence-based practice drives the development of effective prevention and treatment programmes across our network of 32 affiliated member organisations. By investing in research, we ensure that our interventions remain relevant, impactful, and responsive to the evolving landscape of substance use and addiction. 
 

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Our Three-Fold Research Involvement

 

1. Internal Research Initiatives.
SANCA National conducts its own research projects to explore emerging trends, evaluate programme effectiveness, and identify best practices in prevention and treatment. These studies directly inform our strategic planning and service delivery models.

 

2. Collaborative Research Partnerships.
We actively partner with academic institutions, government bodies, and other NGOs to contribute to broader research efforts. These collaborations enhance our reach, deepen our insights, and foster innovation in the field of addiction care.

 

3. Knowledge Translation and Dissemination.
SANCA National is committed to translating research findings into practical tools and guidelines. We share insights through publications, workshops, and training sessions to empower our member organisations and the wider community with actionable knowledge.

Donor-Funded Research Projects

SANCA National actively participates in research projects funded by external donors, ensuring that our programmes are grounded in evidence and tailored to community needs. These initiatives reflect our commitment to data-driven solutions and collaborative impact.

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  • Ripples Support Group Programme

In partnership with the National Department of Social Development, SANCA National developed a standardized national support group programme called Ripples. To ensure its effectiveness, an independent study was conducted by Dr. Francine Masson, providing valuable insights into the programme’s outcomes and areas for enhancement. 

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  • Situational Analysis for Northern Cape and Free State communities

SANCA National conducted a comprehensive situational analysis in the Free State and Northern Cape provinces, for a funder. Through household surveys, the study explored patterns of alcohol and drug use/misuse and assessed the impact of taverns on vulnerable communities. The findings informed the creation of a five-year intervention strategy, developed in collaboration with two strategic partners, aimed at reducing substance-related harm and improving community well-being. 

Academic Research Collaboration

SANCA National welcomes research studies conducted by students and researchers from tertiary institutions at our member organisations. These studies contribute to the growing body of knowledge around substance use prevention and treatment — but must be formally approved by SANCA National before commencement.

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Submission Requirements

To initiate the approval process, please submit the following documents:

  • A detailed research brief outlining the study’s objectives and methodology

  • All relevant research instruments and consent forms

  • A valid ethical clearance letter from your institution

  • A letter from the research supervisor on a letterhead of the University or Institution.

Submissions can be sent directly to SANCA National for review and clearance.

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Acknowledgement and Sharing

We kindly request that:

  • The final study acknowledges SANCA National and the participating member organisation

  • A copy of the final article or abstract is shared with us for potential publication on our website

This ensures transparency, recognition, and the opportunity to showcase impactful research that supports our mission.

Annual Statistical Report

Each year, SANCA National publishes a comprehensive Statistical Report that tracks substance use trends and treatment patterns across our network. This report is meticulously analysed by Professor Wim Roestenburg, providing valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of addiction in South Africa.


Data-Driven Focus on Vulnerable Groups
The report enables SANCA National to identify and respond to specific vulnerable groups within our client population. By understanding long-term patterns and emerging challenges, we can tailor our prevention and treatment programmes to meet the real needs of our communities.


Explore the Reports

We invite you to view our latest statistical reports to see how data informs our mission. [view it here]

UNISA–SANCA Study on Childhood Substance Use

SANCA National, in collaboration with the University of South Africa (UNISA), the community engagement division under the leadership of Prof Marelize Schoeman from the Department of Criminology and Security Science, undertook a pivotal research study focused on childhood substance use and misuse patterns and trends for children between 14-17 years of age. This study represents a critical step in understanding the risks and protective factors of early exposure to substances and its affects on children and adolescents across South Africa. 

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The research aimed to:

  • Identify the prevalence and drivers of substance use among children

  • Understand the socioeconomic and environmental factors contributing to early experimentation

  • Inform the development of targeted prevention strategies and early intervention programmes

 

The findings from this study are instrumental in shaping SANCA’s youth-focused initiatives and guiding national policy discussions on child protection and substance abuse prevention.

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