Out on the street: A community-based study with homeless 2SLGBTQ+ youth who use drugs

COVID-19 Research Area(s): Environment, Epidemiology & Public Health, Mental Health & Wellbeing, Social Impacts

2SLGBTQ+ youth make up 40% of the homeless youth population in Canada. Many homeless 2SLGBTQ+ youth use drugs and are at high risk for drug-related harms. This is especially so in Vancouver, Canada, where youth are navigating public health crises involving overdose, housing insecurity, COVID-19, and climate emergencies. Set in this context, we will undertake community-based research to explore the strategies and supports that homeless 2SLGBTQ+ youth who use drugs are accessing – and/or needing – to maintain health and mitigate potential harms. We will launch a two-year study involving interviews and photovoice methods with 20 homeless 2SLGBTQ+ youth who use drugs.