The Gatehouse was proud to collaborate with senior students from Humber Polytechnic’s Community Development program on a research project examining the effectiveness of our Phase 1 peer support program for 2SLGBTQIA+ adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. This partnership provided valuable insights into both the strengths of our existing services and the unique needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ participants within our community.
As part of our commitment to continuous improvement and inclusivity, The Gatehouse is actively taking steps to implement the report’s key recommendations. We will be hosting a focus group with 2SLGBTQIA+ survivors to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and needs. Additionally, we are updating our training resources and program materials to ensure greater representation, inclusive language, and identity-affirming practices across all levels of our service delivery.
This collaboration reflects our ongoing dedication to creating safe, responsive, and empowering spaces for all survivors, especially those from communities that continue to face systemic barriers in accessing support.
2SLGBTQIA+ Peer Support Survey Snapshot
18 participants surveyed; diverse gender identities and sexual orientations.
33.3% said they would prefer a 2SLGBTQIA+-specific group;
50% preferred mixed groups;
16.7% were unsure.
58% said they did not receive follow-up resources or aftercare information.
78% made suggestions for increased inclusion, even if they felt generally supported.
Key Recommendations
- Offer optional 2SLGBTQIA+-specific peer support groups.
- Increase visibility of 2SLGBTQIA+ perspectives in group materials and discussions.
- Train facilitators on heteronormativity, intersectionality, and identity-informed care.
- Invite 2SLGBTQIA+ facilitators and advisory voices into program development.
- Expand the program manual to include queer narratives and identity-relevant topics.
- Improve aftercare support, including referrals and resources tailored to 2SLGBTQIA+ participants.
- Gather ongoing feedback through post-program surveys or focus groups.
The full report can be accessed —>Final Research Report (1)
The Gatehouse remains deeply committed to providing trauma-informed, inclusive, and empowering peer support to all survivors of childhood sexual abuse. This collaborative research project with Humber Polytechnic students has highlighted both the meaningful impact of our programs and the opportunity to evolve further by addressing the unique needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ participants.
By listening to survivor voices, reflecting on lived experiences, and embracing recommendations grounded in intersectionality and equity, we are taking actionable steps toward fostering safer, more representative spaces. The upcoming focus group, updates to facilitator training, and the integration of 2SLGBTQIA+-inclusive content into program materials are just the beginning.
We are grateful to the participants, student researchers, and our wider community for their trust and insight. Together, we continue to build a future where every survivor feels seen, supported, and empowered in their healing journey.
Thank you to the Humber Polytechnic student team for their invaluable work on this!
If you are a 2SLGBTQIA+ community member who took part in a Gatehouse phase 1 program in the past and would like to submit feedback about your experience, please contact:
Karen MacKeigan, Program Coordinator, Intakes & Phase 1, via email at karen@thegatehouse.org
This research is critical in addressing a long-standing gap in literature and practice surrounding the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) in peer support settings. Members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community face disproportionately high rates of CSA and often experience additional barriers to accessing affirming, inclusive support. By centring their voices and lived experiences, this research highlights the need for trauma-informed, identity-affirming approaches that recognize and respond to the intersectional realities of gender, sexuality, race, and survivorship. The findings offer practical insights that can enhance program responsiveness, increase participant safety and comfort, and ensure that healing environments like The Gatehouse remain welcoming and effective for all survivors.
The Gatehouse is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to providing peer support, education, and healing spaces for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Our work is made possible through the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community partners. To support our efforts, you can make a donation, volunteer your time, sponsor a program or event, or share our mission with others. Every contribution helps us continue building safe, inclusive spaces where survivors, especially those from underserved communities like 2SLGBTQIA+, can be heard, supported, and empowered. Learn more or get involved by visiting www.thegatehouse.org/donate.
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