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Topic

Learning from 2SLGBTQ+ Youth who have experienced homelessness in Sudbury, ON

School of Social Work

Date & location

• Friday, April 11, 2025
• 12:00 P.M.
• Virtual Defence

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Bruce Wallace, School of Social Work, University of Victoria (Supervisor)
• Dr. Rhonda Hackett, School of Social Work, UVic (Member)

External Examiner

• Dr. Vera Caine, School of Nursing, UVic

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Brenda Mishak, School of Nursing, UVic

Abstract

This study is focused on the knowledge shared by 2SLGBTQ+ youth and adults who have experienced homelessness in Sudbury, Ontario and their recommendations to improve services. A total of 7 participants ranging in age from 19 to 38 were interviewed about their experiences with homelessness and accessing shelters and housing programs. Each participant was asked about their experiences of homelessness and seeking housing and shelter services in Sudbury Ontario and their recommendations for change to improve service for 2SLGBTQ+ people experiencing homelessness. This is a qualitative study, and I used thematic analysis to determine the themes that developed in the research. All of the participants had both negative and positive experiences with the services that they accessed, and challenges with services that further disadvantage people accessing them. Each participant shared recommendations that would improve shelter and housings services for 2SLGBTQ+ homeless youth. Overall, participants described how there are policies and procedures in place that work, however more needs to be implemented to meet the unique needs of 2SLGBTQ+ homeless youth.