Pilot Test of the Relationship and Financial Education TOGETHER Program for LGBTQ+ People in Relationships

ABSTRACT

Financial stress negatively impacts health and relationships and relationship stress undermines financial management. LGBTQ+ individuals face additional stress from discrimination, yet no known programs address both relationship and financial stress for LGBTQ+ people. We pilot‐tested the adaptation of TOGETHER, an evidence‐based relationship and financial education program, for LGBTQ+ people in relationships by assessing its acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility using mixed methods. We collected quantitative data on program satisfaction and usefulness through surveys completed anonymously by 31 participants and qualitative data through three focus groups with program participants ( N  = 12) and one focus group and six interviews with program staff (three case managers and 6 facilitators). Findings supported the adaptation's acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility. Participants noted high program satisfaction and usefulness, but also offered ways in which the curriculum could be strengthened and even more focused on LGBTQ+ people in relationships