Matthew James Belfield
Head of Marketing, Communications and Editorial for LGBT Foundation
Growing older is a privilege, and LGBTQ+ people deserve to do it with connection and pride. Learn about our work and how our foundation supports older LGBTQ+ people.
Across the UK, LGBTQ+ people are living longer, fuller lives. Older LGBTQ+ people are parents, partners, friends, volunteers and community leaders. They shaped the communities we know today, and their contributions continue to make our communities stronger.
Ageing is not the same for everyone
Many older LGBTQ+ people face loneliness, social isolation, poorer health outcomes and concerns about accessing inclusive healthcare and social care.1 Some worry about whether they can be open about who they are. Others may not have the same support networks that many people rely on as they grow older.
At LGBT Foundation, ageing well is about much more than living longer. It is about staying connected to the people who matter, maintaining independence and feeling respected, valued and included. Older LGBTQ+ people should have access to the community and healthcare they need to thrive.
connection and community can improve quality of life in later years
Community activities and specialised GP support
Our work is the blueprint for inclusive ageing. Through Pride in Ageing, LGBT Foundation supports older LGBTQ+ people across Greater Manchester and the Liverpool City Region through social groups, community activities, information and opportunities to shape the services that affect their lives. By bringing people together, tackling isolation and amplifying the voices of older LGBTQ+ communities, the programme demonstrates how connection and community can improve quality of life in later years.
Through Pride in Practice, we support GP practices to deliver inclusive and welcoming care for LGBTQ+ patients. The programme has transformed healthcare across the UK, giving healthcare professionals the tools, knowledge and confidence to better support LGBTQ+ people while helping patients feel safer and more confident accessing care. Next time you’re at your GP, ask them about Pride in Practice and how they support inclusive LGBTQ+ healthcare.
Ageing is not just about adding years to life. It is about ensuring everyone can age with independence, connection, good health and pride.
Getting older should never mean facing things alone. Discover support, information and community at lgbt.foundation or call our national helpline on 0345 3 30 30 30.
[1] LGBT Foundation, 2020. Hidden Figures: LGBT Health Inequalities in the UK. tinyurl.com/59b639rj
