The SAFE-R (Safeguarding LGBTIQ+ People’s Right to Health) Project is a European initiative developed in response to critical gaps in healthcare services for LGBTIQ+ individuals in Cyprus. The project aligns with the CERV (Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values) Programme, aiming to promote gender equality, challenge discrimination, and ensure access to quality healthcare for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Cyprus has seen an increasing number of LGBTIQ-phobic attacks, harassment, and discrimination, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive policies and better-trained healthcare professionals. Additionally, the lack of national healthcare guidelines, insufficient training for medical personnel, and gaps in data collection have further exacerbated the challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals in accessing equitable healthcare.
The SAFE-R project and its mission
In response to these challenges, the SAFE-R project focuses on enhancing LGBTIQ+ healthcare rights by:
- Providing targeted training for healthcare professionals to improve their understanding and support of LGBTIQ+ patients.
- Raising awareness about the discrimination and inequalities that LGBTIQ+ individuals face within the healthcare system.
- Addressing gender and sexuality stereotypes to foster a more inclusive medical environment.
- Promoting dialogue and policy changes to ensure that national healthcare guidelines reflect the needs of LGBTIQ+ individuals.
The project is coordinated by the Cyprus Family Planning Association (CFPA), a leading organisation in sexual and reproductive health rights. Other partners include the AIDS Solidarity Movement – Cyprus, Accept LGBTI Cyprus, the University of Nicosia Research Foundation, and DIAS Media Group. Together, these organisations bring extensive expertise in LGBTIQ+ rights, sexual health, advocacy, and research, making SAFE-R a strong initiative aimed at long-term positive change in Cyprus.
Call for participation: Health professionals and students invited to take part in survey
As part of the SAFE-R initiative, a survey has been launched to gather insights from health professionals and students in the fields of medicine, nursing, and psychology. Conducted by the Research Centre of the University of Nicosia, this survey aims to identify challenges, gaps, and needs related to providing inclusive, high-quality healthcare for LGBTIQ+ individuals.
Why is this survey important?
The survey serves as a critical tool in shaping future training programmes and policy recommendations. Currently, healthcare professionals in Cyprus receive limited formal education on issues related to LGBTIQ+ health. This lack of awareness can lead to unintentional discrimination, miscommunication, and barriers in healthcare access.
By participating in the survey, health professionals and students will contribute to:
✅ Improving healthcare services by helping identify key areas where training is needed.
✅ Developing inclusive medical guidelines tailored to the needs of LGBTIQ+ individuals.
✅ Strengthening professional competence in handling LGBTIQ+ health matters with sensitivity and awareness.
✅ Promoting equality and reducing discrimination in healthcare settings.
Who can participate?
This survey is open to:
- Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, psychologists, and other medical staff).
- Medical, nursing, and psychology students who are in training and preparing to enter the healthcare sector.
How to participate?
The survey requires only 15 minutes to complete, and responses will be kept anonymous and confidential. The collected data will be analysed to develop targeted training sessions, awareness campaigns, and policy recommendations aimed at making healthcare in Cyprus more inclusive and accessible for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
A step towards inclusive healthcare in Cyprus
LGBTIQ+ individuals continue to face significant barriers when seeking medical care, ranging from insensitive treatment and misgendering to outright denial of healthcare services. The SAFE-R project recognises that healthcare professionals play a crucial role in breaking down these barriers and creating an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and understood.
By taking part in this survey, you can help create meaningful change in the Cypriot healthcare system and ensure that all patients receive the care and respect they deserve.
For more information about the SAFE-R project and how to get involved, stay connected with the Cyprus Family Planning Association, AIDS Solidarity Movement, Accept LGBTI Cyprus, the University of Nicosia Research Foundation, and DIAS Media Group.
Together, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system in Cyprus.
