Empowering LGBTQ people in adult social care

In celebration of Pride Month this #GoodNewsFriday we hear about how Supported Loving is empowering LGBTQ+ people in adult social care.

Dr. Claire Bates, CEO of Bracebridge Care, founded the Supported Loving network in 2017 after researching relationships among people with learning disabilities. The initiative provides guidance, training, and resources to help social care staff support personal relationships, including those within the LGBTQ+ community.

Many individuals receiving social care, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community, face barriers to relationships due to lack of training, personal biases, and outdated policies. Open discussions about sexuality and gender identity are often absent, leading some to hide their identities, especially in residential care settings. Older LGBTQ+ individuals may fear discrimination or feel forced to suppress their identities when entering care homes, leading to increased isolation and mental health challenges.

Supported Loving promotes an open culture where these topics can be discussed without stigma. This includes clear policies affirming LGBTQ+ rights, encouraging open conversations, and ensuring care settings provide opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals to connect with their communities. Staff training plays a key role in equipping care staff with the confidence to support relationships effectively. Simple steps like adding pronouns to email signatures, creating LGBTQ+-friendly social spaces, and supporting Pride events help integrate inclusivity into organisational culture.

Supported Loving has built a national network committed to improving relationship support by promoting open discussions and clear policies. Care providers who prioritise these efforts report increased staff confidence and reduced social isolation among those they support. Ensuring that LGBTQ+ individuals feel safe and accepted within care settings leads to better emotional well-being and a higher quality of life.

LGBTQ+ inclusion should be proactive, not reactive. Clear training and policies help staff feel equipped to support diverse relationships. Open conversations normalise discussions around sexuality, ensuring care services recognise and respect the needs of all individuals.

Through initiatives like Supported Loving, the social care sector is making progress toward a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone, allowing individuals to live authentically and maintain meaningful connections.

If you have a good news story to share email us marketing@skillsforcare.org.uk.

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