Invitation to Tender: Research on Marginalised Women’s Experiences of the Free Contraception Scheme

Published: Tuesday, August 06, 2024

Research on Marginalised Women’s Experiences of the Free Contraception Scheme
NWC, in partnership with the Department of Health, is seeking a suitably qualified researcher 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 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. 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.

You can find more information on the tender here. 
Deadline for applications is Friday 6th September, 5pm. Tenders to be submitted to Doireann Crosson: doireannc@nwci.ie and marked “Tender for Contraception Research Project”.