Final Focus Group review ahead of upcoming LGBTQ+ Positive Practice Guide

LGBTQ+ Positive Practice Guide Focus Group Experience

The South East PPN’s ‘Equity, Diversity & Inclusion: Moving Towards Action Together’ event this January yielded many valuable highlights. One personal takeaway was the inspiring talk given by Professor Allán Laville (Dean for Diversity and Inclusion, Professor of Equity in Psychology, University of Reading) regarding the upcoming LGBTQ+ Positive Practice Guide set to release this May. Professor Laville and Sarah Beattie have worked dedicatedly with NHS England and LGBT Foundation to create the long-awaited resource to promote LGBTQ+ affirmative mental healthcare across the NHS Talking Therapies services.

Having the privilege to speak with Professor Laville after his talk allowed me to further appreciate the passion behind this project. As an LGBTQ+ Champion within my service, NHS West Sussex Talking Therapies, I was keen to support this endeavour in any way possible. This led to the opportunity to participate in one of the final focus group reviews ahead of the Positive Practice Guide’s publication, alongside my co-Champion, Danni Cooper-Evans.

Over the series of focus groups, it was wonderful to hear the diversity of perspectives represented. Individuals from various walks of the LGBTQ+ community and psychological professions took part, each bringing their unique insights to the table. This stimulated meaningful discussions, ensuring the Positive Practice Guide resonates to a range of identities and experiences.

Professor Laville and his team provided a safe and comfortable space for everyone to share their feedback. It was validating to see how comprehensive, accessible, and informative the draft was on its own, demonstrating the passion and commitment given to the cause. This provided a perfect springboard to bounce ideas and praise positives as a collaborative group.

By the end of the focus group, I felt a sense of optimism and uplift for the next steps in LGBTQ+ affirmative mental healthcare. Whilst there is always more work to be done, it was fantastic to see the hard work put into the Positive Practice Guide. Plus, to imagine the impact it will have for patients and staff alike post-publication.

If you are interested in learning more about the upcoming LGBTQ+ Positive Practice Guide, please join us for the third ‘Championing LGBTQ+ Experience as a Psychological Practitioner’ (Thursday 13^th June 2024, 09:15-10:30am) where we will be joined by Professor Allán Laville. More information found here: PPN - PPN-SE Psychological Practitioners Community of Practice Presents Championing LGBTQ+ Experiences as a Psychological Practitioner

Verity Sutcliffe (Pronouns: they/them/she/her)

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner

LGBTQ+ Champion

Psychological Practitioner Community of Practice Committee Member