New guidance released to support care workers in providing care to LGBTQ+ people in later life

A NEW framework has been published to support social care workers in providing care to older lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer (LGBTQ+) people. This new framework was commissioned and funded by Skills for Care and developed by the University of Strathclyde and the Pride in Ageing programme at LGBT Foundation.  It was created in collaboration with older LGBTQ+ people.The release of this framework comes as LGBT+ History Month is recognised across the UK in February.
Oonagh Smyth, CEO of Skills for Care, said: “We’re very proud to be part of the creation of this important framework, which we know is something that people working in social care want and need.
“It’s vital that care workers are comfortable supporting people with all aspects of their lives and identities, which includes their sexual and gender identity and personal relationships.
“We know that older LGBTQ+ people may face specific inequalities and challenges, and care workers need to understand these issues so that they can provide the most effective person-centred support to each person drawing on care and support.”