SWS welcomes new and returning students

Dear colleagues and students

The University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Student Wellness Services (SWS) in the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) welcomes first-year and returning students. SWS is committed to supporting students in achieving their personal and academic goals. All students are encouraged to make use of the primary health care services available to promote physical, mental and emotional well-being.

A dedicated team provides confidential counselling sessions to assist with stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns. Students who may feel overwhelmed by any developments on campus are encouraged to reach out and speak to a health professional for containment and counselling.

1. Counselling services

Students requiring counselling support can book online.

Those requiring mental health support can access the services through the following:

1. 24-hour telephonic counselling services are available during weekdays, weekends and after-hours

• UCT SADG careline: call 0800 242 526 or text 31393
• Higher Health Counselling: 0800 36 36 36

2. Download the October Health App for online mental health support

• Step 1: Search for “October Health” in the iOS, Android or Huawei app store.
• Step 2: Download the app and create a user profile

In an emergency, please immediately notify Campus Protection Services (CPS) at 021 650 2222. CPS will contact the UCT paramedics.

3. Holistic physio care

Physiotherapists, Natasha Harker and Alicia Thorne, are available at Room F104, First Floor, Stonefountain Terrace (95 Klipfontein Road, Rondebosch).

• Email to make an appointment
• WhatsApp or call 076 515 4035

2. Medical Services

SWS Main Clinic: Ivan Toms Building, lower campus

Comprehensive primary healthcare, including medical services, pharmacy, counselling and social work, is available on weekdays between 08:30 and 16:30.

Walk-in services are available for students who have an emergency. Other consultations must be pre-booked online.

Steve Biko Clinic: Student Union Building, upper campus

Limited medical services are currently provided. Operational hours are from 09:00 to 16:30 on weekdays. Walk-in services are available for students who have an emergency. Other consultations must be pre-booked online.

Medical professionals offer general health services, including treatment for colds or flu, sports or physical injuries, physical pain, health screenings (blood pressure, diabetes), screening and treatment for STIs, HIV testing and information on pregnancy prevention, contraceptives and condoms, along with certain specialist referrals.

Support is also available for students with disabilities and chronic health conditions.

SWS looks forward to supporting students on their journey to academic success and overall well-being.

Physiotherapy services are also available for students who sustain injuries on campus, ensuring they receive the necessary care and support for recovery. Below is a list of the services provided, including locations and contact details:

3. Pharmacy services

Over-the-counter medication:

Limited over-the-counter medication is available at the pharmacy located at Ivan Toms Building. Students can purchase this medication directly from the pharmacy without seeing a nurse.

Family planning

A range of contraceptives is available at no cost to students. A prescription from one of the clinicians is required for contraceptives.

Collection of repeat medication

Students who have repeat prescriptions can book online for collection of repeat medication. This service option is only available for students who have a valid prescription at the pharmacy and does not apply to contraceptives.

Please note that the SWS clinics are closed on weekends. The available 24-hour telephonic counselling services can be used.

4. Alternative resources

Please refer to alternative resources for additional services.

Public healthcare facilities

• UCT Campus Protection Services (CPS): Woolsack Road, Rosebank; 021 650 2222
• Groote Schuur Hospital: Main Road, Observatory; 021 404 5208
• Chapel Street Clinic: Chapel Street, Woodstock; 021 814 1540/1550
• Claremont Clinic: 40 Old Stanhope Road, Claremont; 021 444 6426
• District Six Community Day Centre: 50 Caledon Street, Zonnebloem; 021 833 5400/5413
• New Somerset Hospital: Portswood Road, Green Point; 021 402 6911
• Victoria Hospital: 13 Alphen Hill Road, Cape Town; 021 799 1111

Private healthcare facilities

• Life Claremont Hospital: Main Road, Claremont; 021 670 4000
• Kingsbury Hospital ER: Wilderness Road, Claremont; 021 670 4333
• Rondebosch Medical Centre: Klipfontein Road, Rondebosch; 021 685 8706
• Vincent Pallotti Hospital: Alexandra Road, Pinelands; 021 506 5001
• Kenilworth Clinic: 32 Main Road, Kenilworth; 021 763 4500, 087 098 0452

For further external resources, see the City of Cape Town’s clinic contact list and the City’s clinic services guide.

SWS is aware of a circulating pamphlet regarding the temporary closure of the Ivan Toms Centre for Health. Students are advised that the facility mentioned in the pamphlet is not the UCT Ivan Toms Building, which houses SWS’s main clinic.

Despite the challenges of load-shedding and student protests, the SWS team can provide face-to-face counselling or social work appointments at the Ivan Toms Main Clinic. Please let your clinician know your preference for an online or in-person appointment before the time and check your load-shedding schedule so that you can manage accordingly.

During load-shedding, you could still book online or call the following numbers if you wish to make a booking:

• Health Service: 021 650 1020
• Counselling Service: 021 650 1017

For more information, please contact the SWS practice manager.

Sincerely

Student Wellness Services

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements