Strengthening family bonds with new initiative at Town Centre Library

An initiative aimed at strengthening family relationships and improving communication has begun at the Town Centre Library.

Led by student social worker Monique Koopman, the 10-week programme is designed to help parents, children, and couples better manage conflict and build healthier connections within their homes. 

Every Thursday, Ms Koopman runs group sessions open to the broader community while also offering one-on-one support.

“This project was born from the real-life cases we deal with every day. Many families struggle with unresolved issues and breakdowns in communication. This space allows them to reconnect and develop practical tools to deal with those challenges,” she said.

During the first session, participants worked together to build a symbolic bridge, representing how they can begin to repair broken relationships and strengthen emotional bonds.

Mitchell’s Plain Community Health Centre (MPCHC) social worker René Daniels, Ms Koopman's oversight, said she is a fourth-year UNISA student completing her practical placement at MPCHC this year.

"Monique has started facilitating group sessions focused on helping clients who struggle to maintain healthy family relationships, as these challenges can deeply affect both physical and mental well-being.

Through a series of free workshops, she aims to equip participants with tools to strengthen their family bonds. Improved relationships can lead to reduced stress, better mental health, a stronger sense of purpose, and even longer life expectancy. Patients are encouraged to attend the sessions," said Ms Daniels.

Attendee Colleen Asia shared that, as a group, they had to bring different ideas together to complete the task: “It showed us that teamwork and communication matter. We built something together.”

Janice Krams, another participant, reflected on what she took away from the session: “That bridge made me think about how I speak to the people in my home. Communication starts with me.”

In the weeks ahead, the programme will explore deeper topics around trust, emotional safety, and restoring connection. Ms Koopman hopes that by the end of the sessions, families will leave feeling stronger, more united, and equipped with the skills to continue their healing journey.

For more information, contact Ms Koopman on 083 522 7533 or email her at Monique.Koopman@westerncape.gov.za