Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, safeguarding systems for children and adults are supported by national laws and a growing network of social services, though practical challenges around enforcement and awareness remain. Child protection is governed by the Children Act 2013, which outlines mechanisms to prevent abuse, neglect, exploitation, and child labour, and promotes the best interests of the child. For adults, particularly women, elderly people, and individuals with disabilities, the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2010 and other social welfare laws provide a legal foundation for protection. However, safeguarding concerns such as underreporting, social stigma, and unequal access to justice are still prevalent, particularly in rural areas or within more conservative communities. Bangladeshi students may have limited direct experience with formal safeguarding services and may be hesitant to report personal concerns, especially if they feel it could bring shame to their family or community or be seen as a failure to cope independently.
Mental health in Bangladesh is gaining increasing attention, particularly among youth, but significant stigma and lack of access continue to present major barriers. Mental illness is often misunderstood, with some communities attributing psychological distress to spiritual or supernatural causes, and professional support is frequently sought only when issues are severe. Although government initiatives and NGOs are working to expand services and raise awareness, the country faces a shortage of trained professionals, and mental health is not yet widely integrated into general healthcare or education systems. Bangladeshi students in the UK may be unfamiliar with or wary of counselling services, worrying about confidentiality, being judged, or being seen as “weak.” UK university professionals can support these students by offering confidential, culturally sensitive, and non-judgmental mental health services, framed in a way that aligns with values of personal growth, resilience, and academic success. Building trust through proactive communication, normalising support-seeking, and providing flexible and discreet access points (like drop-in services or peer networks) can help reduce barriers and encourage engagement.
-
Recognizes children as one of the most vulnerable groups and works to ensure their safety and protection.
-
Implements community-based programs focusing on changing the environment in which vulnerable children live to protect them from abuse, exploitation, neglect, and violence.
https://www.wvi.org/child-protection-and-participation-programme
-
A national human rights organisation working with disadvantaged children, youth, and women, focusing on protective, social, educational, and recreational needs.
-
Works with partners to provide support and protection to children and families, advancing children's rights and protection systems.
https://www.unicef.org/bangladesh/en/topics/child-protection-systems
-
A non-profit foundation focusing on mental health, neurological disabilities, and autism, aiming to create inclusive health and education policies.
-
Bangladesh's first emotional support helpline, offering immediate emergency counseling to alleviate feelings of despair and suicidal thoughts.
-
Provides counseling services for individuals, groups, couples, families, and children, aiming to improve mental wellbeing.
-
A registered charity promoting mental well-being and addressing mental health issues within the Bangladeshi community.
-
Provides mental health and psychosocial support services for both host and Rohingya communities in Cox’s Bazar.
https://www.hopeforbangladesh.org/copy-of-mental-health-program-1
Safeguarding HE provides links to external websites that offer support and resources for individuals who may be at risk. While we aim to share reliable and helpful information, we do not control the content of these third-party websites. Please use your discretion when accessing external links, and seek professional advice or emergency assistance if needed.