Greece

In Greece, safeguarding frameworks for children and adults are grounded in national legislation and shaped by the country’s strong family-oriented culture. The Child Protection Law and provisions within the Greek Civil Code outline state responsibilities for protecting minors from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, with social services and the judiciary working in tandem to address serious cases. Safeguarding for adults—especially women, older individuals, and people with disabilities—is supported by laws addressing domestic violence, elder abuse, and social care, although implementation and public awareness can vary. Underreporting of abuse, reliance on informal family networks, and regional disparities in service provision are prevailing challenges. Greek students may come from backgrounds where safeguarding is seen as a family matter rather than a public concern, and they may be unfamiliar with—or initially hesitant to engage with—formal safeguarding procedures in the UK, particularly if they view seeking help as a sign of weakness or disloyalty to family values.

Mental health in Greece is receiving increasing attention, particularly among younger generations, though stigma still affects public perceptions and access to care. Historically, mental illness has carried social stigma and has been seen as something to be hidden or dealt with privately. Although the national health system provides psychiatric and psychological services, access to high-quality, preventive, or long-term care can be inconsistent, especially outside major cities. Cultural attitudes may also lead individuals to prioritise physical health or family support over professional mental health intervention. Greek students in the UK may be open to discussing wellbeing in general terms but might hesitate to use mental health services unless they feel their issues are severe or affecting their academic performance. UK university professionals can support these students by promoting counselling and wellbeing services in a discreet, respectful, and culturally aware manner—highlighting that support is a sign of personal strength and self-care rather than a failure. Emphasising privacy, normalising help-seeking, and offering approachable entry points like workshops or drop-ins may increase engagement.