About This Project

Marginalized groups in Ireland face rising HIV and mental health challenges amid stigma and disjointed care. This PhD research will tests if integrating HIV prevention with mental health services boosts engagement and outcomes for vulnerable populations. Using interviews, gap analysis, and a pilot framework, I’ll seek effective strategies to improve public health equity. Support this project to help shape impactful policy solutions.

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What is the context of this research?

In Ireland, marginalized groups, like migrants (over 650,000), LGBTQ+ individuals (est. 4-10% of the population), and homeless people (around 13,000), face heightened HIV risks and mental health challenges, yet access to care remains limited. My PhD research explores whether integrating HIV prevention, such as testing, with mental health support, like counseling, can improve outcomes. I’ll consult community leaders, analyze service gaps, and pilot a combined approach. With over 500 new HIV cases yearly and stigma blocking help, this study could enhance equity and save lives.

What is the significance of this project?

This project could reshape health outcomes for Ireland’s marginalized groups like, migrants, LGBTQ+, and homeless individuals by proving integrated HIV and mental health services to reduce stigma, increase care access, and improve well-being. A stronger mental health program could lower HIV transmission risks, enhance community resilience, and cut long-term healthcare costs. Engaging with Irish policy leaders, I aim to translate findings into actionable reforms, potentially setting a global model for equitable care.

What are the goals of the project?

My project aims to assess if integrating HIV prevention (e.g., testing, education) with mental health support (e.g., counseling) improves health for Ireland’s marginalized communities. I’ll interview 10-15 experts in public health officials and community leaders to identify service gaps, analyzing responses thematically. From this, I’ll design a pilot plan targeting 50 migrants and LGBTQ+ individuals, using surveys to measure engagement and stigma reduction. The goal is simply to Deliver evidence-based strategies for better care integration, with IRB approval from the University of Limerick secured post-funding, before human testing begins.