We want to hear from you!

If you would like to participate, please email Josh at joshua.simpson@strath.ac.uk.

Josh Simpson, a PhD student at Strathclyde University in Glasgow, is conducting interviews as part of a research study to understand what LGBT+ people think of a book called Release by Patrick Ness and what it’s like to grow up or live as an LGBT+ person in Scotland.

Josh needs 12 volunteers for two groups: one for young people ages 16–18 who identify as LGBT+, and one for adults over the age of 50 who identify as LGBT+. Are you interested?

Your opinions are important and could give us valuable information from your own perspective. The interview will be relaxed and informal in a group setting. Some of the questions Josh will ask include what it is like to live or grow up LGBT+ in Scotland and whether reading fiction helps you with any issues you may have faced as an LGBT+ person.

There will be two group meetings (see the ‘Update’ links on main page for times and locations): the first is limited to one hour and you will be given a copy of the book (you do not have to pay for this), more information about the project, and an opportunity to ask questions. We will then set up a date and time for the second group meeting (probably two weeks later) to discuss your opinions. The second group meeting will be no more than two hours.

While Josh may use a tape and video recorder for the second group meeting, so he can remember what you said, no one will be able to find out who you are from anything written up after you meet. That means Josh won’t use your name and will only tell another person what you said if someone might be in danger.

If you would like to participate, please email Josh at joshua.simpson@strath.ac.uk. Cheers.