Research
Research into the needs and experiences of trans and gender variant people in the UK is severely lacking. As a result, policy makers, commissioners and service providers cannot adequately plan for, and respond to, our needs. In a bid to address this, and to counteract the potential sidelining of trans issues, researchers at TREC are consciously building an evidence base as a means of highlighting some of the key concerns of our communities.
Research to date has focused on some of the daily barriers and inequalities that trans people face in a multitude of areas - including education, employment, health and social care, goods and services, and housing. Recent commissions have included:
Trans Mental Health Study (2012) The Scottish Transgender Alliance, in partnership with TransBareAll, the Trans Resource and Empowerment Centre, Traverse Research and Sheffield Hallam University, has conducted a ground-breaking UK-wide research study into trans mental health and wellbeing. DOWNLOAD THE REPORT [PDF - external link]
TREC Feedback Focus Group (2011) On 9 April 2011, TREC held a focus group to gather feedback about the services we offer. DOWNLOAD THE REPORT [PDF]
NHS Workforce Survey (2010) Have you ever wanted to work in the NHS but never had the opportunity? Perhaps you have dreamed of a career in health and social care but felt put off from applying? TREC worked with NHS North West to find out why trans people may decide not to pursue a career in the NHS, in order to help NHS North West to develop their workforce.
North West Trans Needs Assessment Survey (2010) The purpose of the North West Trans Needs Assessment Survey was to assess the needs of trans individuals and communities in the North West region of England. It was designed and analysed by researchers at the Trans Resource and Empowerment Centre (TREC). The Scottish Transgender Alliance kindly hosted and provided feedback on the survey design. The survey was open from September 2009 until January 2010. DOWNLOAD THE REPORT [PDF]
EHRC: The Personalisation of Health and Social Care (2010) TREC, in partnership with the Merseyside Disability Federation, the Lesbian & Gay Foundation and Breakthrough UK, conducted primary research about the personalisation of health and social care for LGBT Deaf and disabled people.
University of Manchester Trans Staff and Student Consultation (2009) As part of the development of the University's Single Equality Scheme, the TREC carried out a piece of consultation with staff and students for the Equality and Diversity Team. This piece of work will took place in late September and early October (2009). This gave the chance for staff and students to have their say and to help improve the opportunities and support for all trans staff and students at the University of Manchester.