Older gay people

New guidance has been published by Stonewall that gives care and support services practical  advice about how to meet the needs of older lesbian, gay and bisexual people.

Stonewall research – Lesbian, gay and bisexual people in later life – showed that a significant proportion of older gay people are likely to live alone, have limited family support and rely on formal services for help in the future. Many experienced or fear discrimination because of their sexual orientation, creating a barrier to receiving appropriate care and treatment. Working with older lesbian, gay and bisexual people provides guidance on how Care and Support Services can meet the needs of lesbian, gay and bisexual people as become older.
The guidance covers the current legal situation, engaging with older people, and tailored recommendations for care and support workers, homecare providers, Care homes, housing providers, health services and local authorities.

Working with older lesbian, gay and bisexual people – supported by Awards for All – offers recommendations and models good practice for all public bodies that work with older gay people and can be downloaded from:
www.stonewall.org.uk/age        or call 08000 50 20 20 for a free copy.