William Eichler 17 February 2017

Manchester announces first LGBT care scheme for elderly

Manchester City Council has announced its ambition to create a community aimed at older lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people.

The project would be part of the city’s programme that provides high quality housing for older people, and is the first LGBT majority ‘Extra Care’ scheme in the UK.

There are more than 7,000 people in Manchester over the age of 50 that identify as LGBT and there is an expected increase of over-65s in the next two decades.

A recent LGBT Foundation report, commissioned by the council, revealed high levels of loneliness and isolation among the city’s growing older LGBT population.

It also revealed many experience and fear discrimination in existing accommodation and express a desire for affordable LGBT-specific accommodation where they can be open about their identity in later life.

This affordable housing will have a minimum 51% LGBT residents and heterosexual people will be welcome.

‘Prejudice and discrimination can be a real problem facing older LGBT people,’ said Cllr Bev Craig, the council’s lead member for LGBT women.

‘People shouldn't have to face the prospect as they get older of being surrounded by people who may not accept their sexuality or gender identity.

‘Older people should never feel isolated by who they are, or who they love.

‘Alongside improving this in general provision, it is time that we develop a scheme in Manchester that provides care for LGBT people, providing a place where the LGBT community can give each other a network of support in older age.’

Paul Martin, chief executive of LGBT Foundation, said: ‘Our research highlighted that over half of the lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people over 55 surveyed felt that their sexual orientation would have a negative impact on getting older, with social isolation identified as a major concern.

‘Manchester prides itself as an Age Friendly City, and we welcome the announcement of this scheme as a significant move towards improving the lives of older LGBT people in the area.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner