Application Process Explained

At Comcare Trust, we provide supported accommodation for people living with psychiatric disabilities.

Our process ensures that applicants are clinically suitable and able to thrive in a community-based living environment.

Admission Criteria

To be considered for accommodation, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

  1. A diagnosis of a major psychiatric disorder, such as schizophrenia, bipolar affective disorder, schizoaffective disorder, or major depressive disorder, as the primary cause of disability.
  2. Be between 20 and 45 years old. (Older applicants may be considered if in reasonable physical health and with sufficient independent living skills.)
  3. No active substance use. Applicants with a history of substance abuse must demonstrate at least six months of sobriety before applying.
  4. No history of uncontrolled aggression, violence, or self-harm.
  5. Willingness to adhere to prescribed treatment.
  6. Preference is given to applicants whose primary residence is in the Western Cape.

Please note: Meeting these minimum criteria does not automatically guarantee accommodation. Similarly, a successful screening interview does not guarantee immediate placement, as accommodation depends on availability and suitability.

Step 1: Submit Application Form & Medical Report

Applicants or their representative with the applicant’s consent, must complete the Comcare Application for Residency Form. A Medical Report must also be completed by the applicant’s treating psychiatrist.

Along with these forms, please include copies of the following:

  • Identity Document (ID)
  • SASSA card / proof of Disability Grant (if applicable)
  • Covid-19 vaccination certificate/card (if applicable)

Applications can be submitted electronically to applications@comcare.co.za , or delivered in person to our offices at: Valkenberg Hospital, House 20 (next to the Outpatient Department).

Step 2: Screening Interview

Once received, referral documents are reviewed for completeness and to ensure the applicant meets the admission criteria. If appropriate, the applicant is invited to a screening interview. The applicant and their next of kin (if available) will be advised of the screening interview via email, WhatsApp or telephonically.

    • It is the applicant’s or their next of kin’s responsibility to reschedule if unable to attend.
    • If the applicant does not inform us and misses the appointment, they will not be re-contacted.
    • Where possible, next of kin should accompany the applicant to the interview.

Two Comcare counsellors interview the applicant individually and complete a Comcare screening interview form. If next of kin are present, they join at a later stage to provide further information.

Following the interview:

    • If suitable, the applicant may be asked to attend our Welcome Club programme to further assess suitability.
    • If unsuitable, the applicant is informed of the reasons and advised of alternative resources.
Step 3: Welcome Club Programme Attendance

The Welcome Club is Comcare’s psychosocial rehabilitation day programme, which runs from Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 12:30.

  • Attendance is required for a minimum of 24 days, with at least two days per week.
  • Special arrangements may be made for applicants who live or work outside Cape Town.

The Welcome Club provides applicants with the opportunity to:

  • Meet and connect with Comcare residents
  • Experience daily routines and programmes
  • Explore whether Comcare’s community and lifestyle are a good fit
Waiting List
  • Only applicants who have been through the screening process and completed the minimum of 24-day attendance at the Welcome Club are placed on the waiting list.
  • Once the applicant is placed on the waiting list, they will be contacted periodically to confirm ongoing interest.
  • Waiting times vary and cannot be guaranteed at the time of application. Placement depends on suitability and availability, not just the date of application.
  • Comcare does not provide emergency or respite care placements.
Selection & Admission Procedure
  1. When a vacancy becomes available, a prospective resident is selected from the waiting list.
  2. Considerations include:
    • Sex (if the vacancy is for a shared room, it is limited to a person of the same sex as the current resident)
    • Willingness and capacity to share a room (where applicable)
    • Compatibility with other residents in the house
    • Current mental health status
  3. The prospective resident is contacted. If there has been a long waiting period, a brief re-assessment may be required.
  4. The prospective resident is invited to afternoon tea at the house, offering an opportunity to meet staff and residents, and vice versa.
  5. Both staff and residents provide feedback on suitability, which is considered in the final decision.
  6. If accepted, the prospective resident meets with the Director to:
    • Sign the Board and Lodging Contract
    • Finalise the move-in date
Fees
  • To keep accommodation accessible, fees are determined on a sliding scale (means test) based on the applicant’s income and family support.
  • The current full board and lodging fee is R8,750 per month.
  • Final fees are discussed with the Director at contract signing.
Questions?

If you have any questions or need guidance with the process, please feel free to reach out via email applications@comcare.co.za or WhatsApp 068 178 0998.

Contact Person:
Esté Hugo

Complete Application