Shaping thinking on LGBT+ mental health

Coventry University expert helps inform political thinking on LGBT+ mental health.

A Coventry University expert has called for better training of psychologists in LGBT+ mental health as he joined an event designed to inform the Labour Party’s approach to the issue.

Dr Adam Jowett, Associate Head of School at Coventry University’s School of Psychological, Social & Behavioural Sciences, took part in the round table discussion event at Westminster along with representatives of several mental health organisations and LGBT+ charities.

Coinciding with the end of Pride Month, the aim of the round table was to help to inform Labour’s approach and potential policies relating to LGBT+ mental health.

The discussion, which coincided with the end of Pride Month, was hosted by Dr Rosena Allin-Khan MP, Shadow Minister for Mental Health, and Anneliese Dodds MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Women and Equalities, with Dr Jowett representing The British Psychological Society, where he acts as Chair of the organisation’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Board.

Dr Jowett, whose research has covered conversion therapy, spoke on this subject during the meeting as well as on the need for the better training of psychologists in LGBT+ mental health.

Dr Jowett said: “Attending this event shows the real world impact our psychology staff at Coventry University are having beyond teaching the next generation of psychologists. The Government commissioned evidence review and qualitative study I did in the area of conversion therapy concluded that there is no evidence that it is effective in changing sexual orientation or gender identity, but it can lead to poor mental health outcomes for those that have undergone conversion therapy.

“This round table was a very useful event at the end of Pride Month and those from the Labour Party were very much in listening mode. Its vital that future policy making is evidence led and that politicians engage with professional bodies and LGBT+ organisations.”
To find out more about Coventry University’s School of Psychological, Social & Behavioural Sciences visit: School of Psychological, Social and Behavioural Sciences | Coventry University