The East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT) is organising a series of focus groups to improve the experience of the LGBTQ+ community in accessing mental health services.

The Trust has appointed Rebecca Broughton as an assistant in Community Psychology to improve access and experience of LGBTQ+ community. She said her new role will give her “a unique opportunity to focus on outreach and improvement work”.

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Broughton is passionate about this research project as, historically, its members have had worse outcomes than their heterossexual counterparts. Besides, and despite common experiences of rejection and prejudice that may enhance mental health difficulties, LGBTQ+ access less support services than heterossexual people.

She is hoping to hear from previous service users and Newham residents, who can remain anonymous if they prefer. She is also offering one-to-one interviews for those who might not feel safe speaking out in groups.

Rebecca Broughton, who aims to make LGBTQ+ training mandatory for all healthcare staff, is hoping that this project will “help to inform future practice so everyone who accesses our services really feels the trust values of inclusivity, care and respect.”

For more information, suggestions or to participate, please email: Rebecca.Broughton@nhs.net

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