The purpose of this research was to examine the perceptions of a selected group of retrenched participants from Ford Motors in Gauteng in the Dipaakanyo Social Plan Programme. An evaluative qualitative study utilizing a triangulation of methods was chosen. The findings revealed that the programme led to an understanding of the economic context, acquisition of new skills, and changes in attitude and behaviours. The challenges were the timing, duration, as well as the language and style of facilitation. Recommendations were that the programme form part of an Employee Assistance Programme, develop comprehensive individual development plans and inclusion of spouses.