Terrence Higgins Trust, the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity, has joined forces with Hackney Council and the City and Hackney Clinical Commissioning Group to carry out research into the social care experiences of people of colour who are LGBTQ+ and live in two of the country’s most diverse boroughs.
A new survey has been launched for people of colour who identify as LGBTQ+ and have a connection to Hackney or the City of London. This could be living, working or using services in those boroughs.
People within these diverse demographics have traditionally had lower engagement with health and social care services, which has been linked to poorer health outcomes. The research aims to better understand what barriers there are and how services can be better designed to meet the needs of these communities.
People of colour, in particular black African communities, as well as gay and bisexual men, continue to be at increased risk of HIV and also experience higher rates of new sexually transmitted infections.
The survey takes around 10-15 minutes to complete and is open until the end of March. All participants will be entered into a draw to win £100. All responses are anonymous.
Marc Thompson, Health Improvement Lead at Terrence Higgins Trust, said: 'We know that people of colour who identify as LGBTQ+ are disproportionately impacted by poorer sexual health, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Health and social care services play a key role in prevention and awareness, so it’s crucial they meet the needs of every community they serve.
'Through this survey, we will amplify the voices of these diverse groups and seek practical solutions within services that the City and Hackney residents use on a regular basis. I’d encourage anyone who fits into this demographic to take part, have their voice heard and be part of the change.'
