As part of a larger project, the UBC Reproductive Infectious Diseases Team is working on sharing information about the rising rates of syphilis in pregnancy in British Columbia. We are hoping to connect with peer engagement/outreach workers who support people who have lived and living experience of substance use/mental health challenges/being underhoused during pregnancy.
We are hosting a small focus group, in partnership with the BCCDC, to gain a better understanding of trauma-informed and culturally safe strategies to share syphilis information with people who are pregnant.
To be eligible for this focus group, participants must be in a peer support worker role at a community-based organization in British Columbia and have at least 1 year of experience in this type of role (not necessarily at the same organization). In addition, participants must work in some capacity with people during pregnancy. There are limited seats in this focus group and not all applicants will be selected to participate.
This focus group meeting will take place in June 2025, be 2 hours in length, and will be held virtually. Honoraria of $35/hour will be offered to all participants for their time.
There may also be future opportunities to provide additional feedback and continue engaging with the team on this project. Participants who choose to continue this work should expect to contribute approximately 10 hours of time between June 2025 and December 2025.
Note: The information shared in the sign-up form and during the focus group will be kept confidential and used to inform knowledge mobilization strategies only. Further information about confidentiality and privacy will be shared with those who are selected to participate. This focus group will be facilitated using a trauma-informed approach and will be a judgement-free space to share your experiences.
If you are interested, please apply using this link: Syphilis Focus Group Opportunity
