Lay summary
Forensic sexual assault and related health services respond to what are extreme traumatic events for an individual, and the transgender population experience these at a higher rate than the general population. Through collaborative research we aim to provide more effective services for the transgender, non-binary and intersex populations of Aotearoa New Zealand. We seek to understand the concerns and needs of these populations and ensure that the forensic sexual assault and related health services (such as the forensic medical examination) are evidence-based, equitable, inclusive and scientifically robust. We have established collaborations with PATHA (Professional Association for Transgender Health Aotearoa) and Medical Sexual Assault Clinicians Aotearoa (MEDSAC) and have contacted other relevant organisations and researchers. Our proposed next step is to hold a workshop to bring these groups together to co-design appropriate research and quality improvements.