Learning the narratives and expectations of health and care needs for LGBTQ+ older people

Throughout their lifetime LGBTQ+ individuals often experience inequalities in accessing health and social care. These inequalities continue as LGBTQ+ individuals age and it is documented that LGBTQ+ older people in the UK lack confidence in approaching services provided by the NHS, religious groups or the state. Often linked to historical trauma when each of these institutions actively stigmatised and abused the LGBTQ+ community. A major cause of this is that services are often designed for the heteronormative majority and fail to consider the wants, experiences and needs of the alternative communities. With an ageing population experiencing multiple co-morbidities, it is essential that all public services are suitable for all communities that they serve. Through two community engagement events, this project aims to explore the experiences, perceptions and expectations of LGBTQ+ people regarding ageing and related health needs.