EASE-MH Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Enhancing access to sexual and reproductive health services for people with mental health conditions in the West Midlands: assessing knowledge, barriers, and facilitators
IRAS ID
355480
Contact name
Charlotte Spurway
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Birmingham
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 31 days
Research summary
Sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and access to contraception are important for controlling the spread of disease and maintaining good sexual health. However, there is limited research on the accessibility of sexual health services for people with mental health conditions. The Equality Act 2010 requires all providers to make reasonable adjustments to enable access to healthcare without discrimination, but the optimal approach for ensuring access to sexual health services is unclear.
This research will investigate the barriers and facilitators that affect people with mental health conditions in accessing sexual and reproductive health services in the West Midlands. This project includes two work packages. Firstly, it will involve a review of existing research to investigate what is already known about improving access to sexual and reproductive health services for people with mental health conditions. In-depth interviews will then explore (1) patient and potential patient experiences of accessing or trying to access STI testing and contraception, and (2) the experiences and opinions of professionals working in sexual and reproductive health or mental health services.
Once WP1 and WP2 have been completed, a stakeholder dissemination workshop will be held to develop key recommendations and set future priorities for sexual & reproductive health services in supporting people with mental health conditions. The workshop will include up to 20 participants, including healthcare professionals, relevant stakeholders, patient representative groups, and service users.
The findings will help us better understand what makes it easier or harder for people with mental health conditions to access sexual and reproductive health services, including STI testing and contraception. This information can be used by service providers and commissioners to identify how to improve the delivery of services and will have national and international relevance in ensuring equity of access to services.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/NW/0340
Date of REC Opinion
15 Dec 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion