South Africa

In South Africa, safeguarding frameworks for children and vulnerable adults are supported by a robust legal foundation but are often challenged by systemic inequalities and capacity issues. Child protection is governed by the Children’s Act (2005), which promotes the best interests of the child and mandates reporting and intervention in cases of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Adult safeguarding—particularly relating to domestic violence, elder abuse, and individuals with disabilities—is addressed through laws such as the Domestic Violence Act, Older Persons Act, and Protection from Harassment Act. However, underreporting, stigma, and uneven access to services, particularly in rural or under-resourced communities, remain significant concerns. South African students are generally aware of safeguarding structures but may come from varied backgrounds—ranging from urban centres with well-developed support systems to communities where trust in formal institutions is lower and support is managed informally within families or faith-based networks.

Mental health in South Africa is increasingly recognised as a critical area of need, particularly among youth and university students. While awareness is growing and national strategies exist to address mental illness, access to mental health services is uneven, and there remains a high level of stigma—especially in communities where psychological distress may be attributed to spiritual or cultural causes. Public mental health services are under-resourced, with long wait times and a shortage of trained professionals. Although many universities in South Africa offer counselling services, cultural barriers, fear of judgment, or lack of familiarity with therapeutic models may deter students from seeking help early. South African students in the UK may be receptive to wellbeing support but could hesitate to access services due to concerns about confidentiality, perceived weakness, or unfamiliar systems. UK university professionals can support these students by offering inclusive, culturally sensitive mental health and wellbeing services, emphasising confidentiality, dignity, and empowerment. Framing mental health care as a strength and a resource for achieving academic success—and offering multiple, low-barrier entry points—can help encourage trust and engagement.