Survivor support

Sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) affects all corners of our society, including our university. UCT’s commitment to responding to SGBV starts with a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of sexual violence and/or sexual harassment.

Sexual Harassment and Sexual Offences policy

As a new member of the UCT community, you are expected to familiarise yourself with the university’s Sexual Harassment and Sexual Offences policy. If you would like someone to go through the policy with you, please contact Cheryl Vallay in the Office for Inclusivity & Change (OIC) on 021 650 2767.

Reporting SGBV

UCT is fully committed to supporting survivors of sexual violence and/or sexual harassment. We encourage you to report incidents so that the relevant assistance can be provided. If you or any UCT student you know has experienced sexual assault, sexual harassment or gender-based violence, please contact the OIC for assistance:

• Survivor Support 021 650 3530 (08:30–16:00)
• 24/7 Sexual assault standby number 073 393 7824.

You can also use the OIC’s online portal or the UCT App to report incidents of sexual and gender-based violence. If you need assistance with reporting an incident using the online reporting tool, please contact the OIC on 021 650 2767.

The OIC offers survivors immediate comprehensive care and support. They will assist with lodging complaints and with laying a charge with the South African Police Service.

“I wish I had known that free HIV testing is available across campus, like at the Sports Centre and the Student Wellness Centre.” – Nigel

Medical assistance

If you or any student needs immediate medical assistance or advice following a rape and/or sexual assault:

• call, SMS or send a missed call to the 24/7 sexual assault standby number: 073 393 7824
• call Rape Crisis: 021 447 9762
• call the SADAG UCT Student Careline: 0800 24 25 26 (or SMS 31393 for a callback)

More information is available on the OIC’s Survivor Support web page, or you can contact Yumna Seadat at the OIC.