Intersectionality: a literature review for the MS Society

Health and Society Knowledge Exchange (HASKE) was commissioned by the MS Society to conduct a rapid review of literature exploring the theoretical background, conceptual complexities and the application of the practice of intersectionality. The aim of this work is to support the MS Society in more fully understanding inequalities affecting the communities they work alongside in their evidence and policy work. While inequalities are generally defined as unjust and avoidable differences across populations and between specific population groups, for some communities and individuals a combination of factors may be at play. Intersectionality is an approach to understanding and exploring multidimensional factors of inequalities. There is the potential, then, for intersectional approaches in evidence, research and policy to help the MS Society in its work and mission.

This report was produced by Professor Tom Grimwood, Dr Meghánn Ward and Dr Laura Snell at Health and Society Knowledge Exchange (HASKE), University of Cumbria.