Lay summary
Our goal is to shape delivery of perinatal mental health services (PMHS) so that they are equitable, safe, and inclusive for transgender, non-binary and Takatāpui (trans) people/whānau. Our work in perinatal care has shown that currently PMHS are failing trans whānau. The perinatal period presents unique challenges for the mental health and wellbeing of trans people. To ensure equitable care for trans people we need to challenge norms related to gender and sexuality, and the origins of stigma and discrimination embedded within services.
Working in partnership with two PMHS and trans whānau co-inquirers this participatory action research project will: develop a prioritisation framework of action steps for trans inclusive PMHS; undertake implementation and evaluation of the action steps in two PMHS to improve equity of and access to services for trans people and whānau; develop and disseminate a blueprint for a national roll-out of trans-inclusive PMH.