A mixed-methods exploration of how trans young people experienced a co-design process to develop a mental health intervention

PurposeCo-design methodologies are increasingly being used in health research with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth. We explored how transgender youth (hereafter ‘trans’) experienced a co-design process to develop a mental health intervention.MethodsSix of eight trans young people (aged 15-21) who participated in the co-design completed a mixed-methods survey evaluating their experience. Information on demographics, engagement, and experience of the co-design process was collected. The study was conducted between May 2022 to July 2022.ResultsRespondents were highly engaged in the co-design process and described their motivation to participate as a desire to improve the wellbeing of other trans youth. Respondents enjoyed the collaborative and interactive nature of the workshops, although attending online created barriers to participation. ConclusionOur results show preliminary evidence that co-design is an acceptable method to use when developing health services with trans young people.