Search

Aim: To examine the experiences and support needs of homeless transgender people by synthesizing the existing evidence. Background: Transgender people face many challenges in society in terms of people's knowledge, understanding and acceptance of a person's gender identity. Evidence regarding the homelessness experiences and available supports to transgender people remains sparse. Methods: A systematic review was undertaken and included qualitative and quantitative studies. A total of twelve papers were included in the review, utilizing the PRISMA method. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Assessment Tool (MMAT). Results: Following analysis, the themes that emerged were (a) pathways into homelessness, (b) experiences whilst homeless and (c) routes out of homelessness. Conclusion: It has become increasingly clear that the distinct needs of this group are complex and multifaceted. In order to adequately address the issues and concerns comprehensively, coordinated and effective collaborations need to be in place. Implications for nursing management: Clinical nurses need to recognize and respond to the distinct needs of trans homeless people. Nurse managers need to provide leadership to promote the needs of homeless trans people and ensure that policies and procedures are in place that are responsive to issues and concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study sought to explore the personal experiences of transgender people with Irish mental health services. Background: The transgender community have been identified as an underserved, under‐researched community in Ireland and abroad. While there has been a surge in research carried out with the community in recent years, there is little known about the personal experiences of Irish transgender people with mental health services. Method: Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to inform data collection and analysis of semi‐structured interviews carried out with four research participants all identifying as transgender and having experienced accessing Irish mental health services. Results: Three themes emerged: affirmative experiences, non‐affirmative experiences and clinician relationship. Conclusion: Lack of information and non‐affirmative experiences are contributing to poor clinician–patient relationships with transgender populations and impacting attrition. Implications for Nursing Management: Nurse managers have a central role in supporting a transgender‐positive organisational approach to care by ensuring policies, care practices and the environment are supportive of sexual and gender expression by role modelling attitudes of respect and inclusivity. In order to provide appropriate and responsive services to transgender people, there needs to be in place strategies to enable the development of confident, competent and knowledgeable staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To explore the barriers to accessing mental health services in the Republic of Ireland from the perspectives of young LGBT + people aged 14–25. Background: Significant mental health disparities exist between LGBT + young people and their cisgender and heterosexual peers, yet they do not have equitable access to mental health services. Limited research has explored barriers, which exist for LGBTI + young people in accessing services, particularly from their perspectives. Method: An anonymous online survey design, consisting of closed and open questions, was used. The study was advertised through local and national organisations and media. 1,064 LGBT + participants aged 14–25 opted to complete the survey. Results: Most participants reported several barriers to them accessing mental health services that were interlinked across three levels: individual; sociocultural; and mental health system. Conclusion: Cultural competency training for practitioners, which address issues and concerns pertinent to LGBT + young people, is key to addressing many of the barriers identified. Implications for Nursing Management: Nurse managers can use the findings to advocate for practice and organisational change within their services to ensure that care and support is responsive and sensitive to the particular needs of LGBT + young people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]