We are excited to invite you to participate in a new VHS social research project exploring the relationship between gender and health. This will be the first in a series of research projects looking at different social determinants of health.
The research will explore the relationship between health and gender identity, with a particular focus on health inequalities related to gender. It will also explore how gendered experiences of health intersect with other forms of identity, including sexuality, race, ethnicity, age, income and caring status.
We acknowledge that the word ‘gender’ has different meanings and connotations for different people, and we hope to sensitively reflect this reality in our research. We are keen to hear about health experiences which are impacted by gender, assigned at birth or otherwise.
This project will primarily draw on evidence generated by our member organisations, whilst also referencing a range of national health data sets and relevant academic research. We’d like to hear from any of our member organisations who believe that they, or the people/communities they serve, have useful insights into the relationship between gender and health. We are keen to hear from any member organisation, not just those that provide services aimed at particular gender groups.
There are several ways that you can get involved:
Consultation Events
Firstly, you could sign up to attend one of our online research consultation events in November. These events will provide a facilitated discussion for attendees to share experiences, evidence or views related to the research topic. The initial event dates are:
- Thursday 20th November, 10-11.30am
- Tuesday 25th November, 10-11.30am
Survey
You can also feed into the research through this anonymous survey which closes on the 30th November. Completing the survey should take a maximum of 15-20 minutes.
Written Evidence
A third option is to send us any written evidence you might have which explores the relationship between gender and health directly or indirectly. Please send this to our Policy and Public Affairs Lead, Sarah Latto, at sarah.latto@vhscotland.org.uk with the email subject ‘Gender and Health’.
1-1 Conversations
Finally, we would be delighted to host 1-1 conversations with representatives from your organisation, or work with you to facilitate conversations with some of the people you serve who have lived or living experience. If this is of interest, again please email sarah.latto@vhscotland.org.uk with the email subject ‘Gender and Health’.
If you would like any further information about this research project, please get in touch!
