Department of Health

Gender sensitivity and safety

All mental health services should provide safe, non-judgemental environments that are sensitive to people’s individual gender identities and sexual preferences. This is a critical foundation for all people accessing mental health treatment and care.

There are comprehensive guidelines to help mental health service managers and staff deliver services that respect the needs, wishes and experiences of people in relation to their gender and sexual identity.

Principles of gender sensitive care

Services should provide safe, non-judgemental environments sensitive to people’s gender identities and sexual preferences.

Gender safety in bed-based services

Mixed-sex, bed-based acute inpatient units are challenging when caring for women and vulnerable individuals.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTIQA+) people

Openness, respect and acceptance of LGBTIQA+ individuals is essential in catering to people who may have a range of different needs.

Definitions of terms relating to gender sensitivity and safety

Definitions of terms relating to gender sensitivity and safety.

Downloads

Service Guideline for Gender Sensitivity and Safety
pdf 1015.06 KB
Service Guideline on Gender Sensitivity and Safety - literature review (PDF, 570kb)
pdf 570.63 KB

Reviewed 28 May 2015

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