National Women's Council of Ireland: Call for Tender
Research on Marginalised Women’s Experiences of the Free Contraception Scheme
Aim
The aim of this research project is to investigate women’s awareness and experiences of the Free Contraception Scheme to date, in addition to exploring women’s attitudes towards contraception more broadly. The research will have a particular focus on marginalised women, including Traveller women, Roma women, disabled women, migrant women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, women living in rural areas, women who are socioeconomically disadvantaged, and women who have experienced homelessness, addiction, or are survivors of gender-based violence.
The Women’s Health Action Plan 2022-2023 recognised that marginalised women experience the most acute challenges when engaging with the health care system. The Plan made specific commitments to rethinking how marginalised women can access healthcare in ways that are appropriate and convenient to them.
The Free Contraception Scheme, Action 4A of the Women’s Health Action Plan 2022-2023, initially allowed women aged 17-25 years to access a range of free contraceptives. The Scheme has since been expanded under the new Women’s Health Action Plan 2024-2025 Phase 2: An Evolution in Women’s Health and now serves women aged 17-35 years of age. This was warmly welcomed by the Women’s Health Taskforce of which NWC is a valued member.
By focusing our engagement on marginalised women, this research will capture a diverse sample of women’s experiences accessing the Scheme, providing insights into any barriers and participants’ attitudes towards the Scheme and the use of contraceptives.
The final report will include recommendations, aimed at supporting the Department of Health (DoH) to improve the Scheme for all women.
Please see tender document attached below.