State of Ageing Spotlight: Older LGBTQ+ people

This Centre for Ageing Better report shines a spotlight on the older LGBTQ+ community – a population that is often overlooked in data, policy and service provision. It also states that LGBTQ+ people face preventable disadvantage.

The new spotlight highlights a need for more tailored service provision for a section of the population that is growing at a much faster rate than the 50+ population in general.

With regard to housing, the report draws attention to the need for a diverse range of appropriate accommodation where the LGBTQ+ community in later life can be supported in their identities, including extra care housing such as currently being built in south Manchester. It also highlights the experiences older LGBTQ+ people and their anxiety about engaging with care services, sometimes leading to delays in exploring appropriate housing, care and support.

The report refers to useful resources as the LGBTQ+ Housing Pledge. 

It also makes a number of important policy and practice recommendations, including

• The Government should recognise the distinct needs of older LGBTQ+ people
• The Establishment of a Commissioner for Older People and Ageing who should engage with LGBTQ+ groups and consider the needs of older LGBTQ+ people
• The involvement of older LGBTQ+ people in the design of services by strategic authorities, local authorities and integrated care boards, and
• When commissioning or directly providing services, ensure these services are inclusive, culturally competent, and anti-discriminatory.