Researchers calling on LGBTQ+ older carers to share their experiences as part of study

Researchers at Wrexham Glyndwr University (WGU) are seeking to gather the views and experiences of LGBTQ+ older carers in North Wales, as part of a research project to help understand their health and social support needs.

The study, which is being led by researchers from the Nursing and Mental Health and Wellbeing teams at WGU in collaboration with local agencies, is aiming to help understand the support needs of this marginalised group, in a bid to inform national policies and care services.

Recommendations and themes that arise from the study will be shared with local and national governments, to help shape services and policy.

LGBTQ+ older carers aged over 50 in Wales are being encouraged to complete a questionnaire, detailing their experience as a carer.

Dr Joy Hall, Visiting Professor in Nursing at WGU, said: “We are extremely keen to hear the views and experiences – both positive and negative – of LGBTQ+ older carers living in North Wales, in a bid to find out more about how they navigate their caring responsibilities.

“As part of this, we are inviting people to share what they feel would improve their life as a carer, as well as the person that you care for. If this sounds like you, please complete our survey to help us understand your needs.

“We know that the needs of older LGBTQ+ carers can be frequently overlooked and that often this group of people fear disclosing their sexual orientation or gender identity to care providers due to their own personal experiences of homophobia or transphobia, and because of this, limited information is available to health, social and voluntary care staff about how best to support this group in their caring roles.

“I know that in recent years, a lot of work has been done in destigmatising this particular group, so we also want to find out whether that’s proving effective and what’s working well, particularly in relation to helping understand the support needs of individuals.”

As part of this research project, the team at WGU are working alongside agencies including Body Positive Cheshire and North Wales, Unique Transgender Network North Wales, the Equality and Inclusion Manager at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, and the North and East Wales Carers Information Service.

This will ensure that the research findings are used to develop policies and improve holistic service provision for all individuals.

Findings from this project will also feed into an application for a larger funding pot that will be used to expand the study’s reach and impact.

It also builds upon the aims of WGU’s Civic Mission to introduce innovative approaches to community resilience and keeping well.

More information about the survey, including how to complete it, can be accessed here.