Experiences of case management and Housing First services for sexual and gender diverse individuals at a crisis intervention service

The study explores the experiences of sexual and gender diverse unhoused populations in accessing case management services at a community-based crisis organization in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. The research was conducted through the lens of minority stress theory, intersectionality, and a social constructivist worldview. Twelve sexual and gender diverse individuals who accessed services at the organization completed semi-structured interviews which were analyzed using interpretative phenomenology. Four themes were identified: housing, identity, and belonging; need for knowledge around sexual and gender identities and resources; gaps in affirmative care within case management; and perceived safety with case managers. This paper highlights implications for research and practice in affirmative case management.