On 21 September 2026, LGBT Ireland organised the launch of a new research report, exploring the barriers LGBTQI+ people face when accessing mental health services in Ireland. The report launch took place at the Carmichael Centre in Dublin City Centre. Developed in collaboration with University College Dublin as part of the EQUICARES project, Hidden Barriers highlights significant challenges facing LGBTQI+ people seeking mental health support. These include a lack of clear information on LGBTQI+-competent services, difficulties navigating the mental health system, and increased financial barriers to accessing and continuing care.

LGBT Ireland invited key stakeholders across the Irish mental health landscape, including mental health providers, health services representatives, policymakers, LGBTQI+ organisations, and LGBTQI+ people interested in mental health access. Attendees included Senator Laura Harmon (Spokesperson on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science; Disability), representatives of the HSE, several representatives of the Mental Health Commission and of Irish mental health CSOs, representatives of Irish LGBTQI+ CSOs, in cluding Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre and Belong To LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland, and other interested stakeholders.

After introductory welcome words from LGBT Ireland CEO Anne Byrne, Mira Fey presented key findings of the report, followed by a panel discussion and a Q&A, facilitated by Anne Byrne, with the following panellists, Catherine Brogan, CEO, Suicide or Survive (national suicide awareness CSO); Gemma Cox, Evaluation and Research Manager, HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP), Access and Integration; and Hannah Kelly, Programmes and Services Manager, Outhouse LGBTQ+ Centre

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