China

In China, safeguarding systems for children and adults are built into a national legal framework, but cultural norms and regional disparities can impact how protection is delivered and accessed. The Law on the Protection of Minors and Law on the Protection of the Rights and Interests of Women provide legal measures to protect children and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The government plays a central role in child welfare, often in coordination with schools and local authorities. However, issues such as underreporting, limited transparency, and cultural emphasis on family privacy may reduce help-seeking behaviours. Many concerns—especially those involving domestic violence or emotional harm—may be dealt with informally within families rather than through formal reporting channels. Chinese students in the UK may be aware of formal protection mechanisms but may hesitate to raise safeguarding concerns due to fear of “losing face,” family shame, or a belief that problems should be kept private.

Mental health in China has gained increased attention in recent years, particularly among younger people, but stigma and misunderstanding around mental illness remain widespread. Psychological distress is often internalised, and seeking professional help may be viewed by some as a sign of weakness or failure. While the National Mental Health Law (2012) was a major step forward, services remain concentrated in urban areas, and access in rural regions is still limited. Chinese students in the UK may feel pressure to succeed academically and avoid disclosing mental health challenges for fear of burdening others or appearing inadequate. UK university professionals can support these students by offering discreet, culturally sensitive, and easily accessible mental health services, with clear assurances of confidentiality and a non-judgmental approach. Framing support in terms of stress management, academic performance, and self-improvement may resonate more effectively than emotional appeals. Involving peer support, multilingual materials, and respect for cultural communication styles (such as indirectness or modesty) can also help build trust and encourage engagement.