Queer/ing Research Takeover
In honour of June being Pride Month, we are showcasing how our researchers are proudly challenging inequality and division by; ensuring healthcare in all settings is delivered inclusively, looking after the mental health of our LGBTQA+ youth in Northern Ireland, and pioneering research into drug treatment support services for the LGBTQA+ community.
Julie Tracey
Julie Tracey
Ensuring Healthcare is Inclusive
Julie is is working with same-sex parents and stakeholders to create an inclusive environment for health visiting in Northern Ireland.
"My research focuses on same-sex parents experiences of health visiting services in Northern Ireland. Through engagement with key stakeholders my study will aim to promote an inclusive service delivery for all parents."
Emma Rebecca Wallace
Emma Rebecca Wallace
Informing Suicide Prevention Efforts
Emma's primary research interests centre around reducing suicide risk, informing Stormont's APG on Suicide Prevention and changes to the Suicide Prevention Strategy for LGBTQA+ young people.
"Queering Suicide Prevention is focused on understanding the mental health needs, suicidality and lived experiences of LGBTQA+ youth in NI. The aim is to foster meaningful conversations and change that can help reduce suicide risk, and to inform suicide prevention efforts."
Jessica Spratt
Jessica Spratt
Pioneering Drug Treatments for the LGBTQA+ Community
In collaboration with The Rainbow Project and Department of Health, Jessica leads a first of its kind study into drug treatment for the LGBTQA+ community.
"My research looks at drug use among members of the LGBTQ+ communities in NI with consideration given to how risk is negotiated to experience enhancement. My study is also the first of its kind to investigate drug treatment and support services here, as they relate to the LGBTQ+ community."
Prof. Fidelma Ashe
Prof. Fidelma Ashe
Platforming the negative impact of conversion therapy practices.
Fidelma Ashe is a Professor of politics and a member of the Transitional Justice Institute and co-authored the first qualitative study of conversion practices in NI.
“My work is centres around marginalised communities. Most recently I co-authored a research report titles ‘A Study of Conversion Practices in Northern Ireland’. The report was cited in a recent opposition motion in the NI Assembly which called for an effective ban on conversion practices.”