Press Release: Welsh charities join forces for LGBTQ+ carers
Carers Wales and Pride Cymru are releasing a guide on entitlements and support
Welsh charities, Carers Wales and Pride Cymru, have joined forces to issue an innovative new guide for unpaid carers of all ages who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans* or queer. The guide provides information to help with the unique challenges that arise from caring as or for LGBTQ+ people.
According to the two charities, barriers which already affect those caring for an ill, elderly, or disabled loved ones can be entrenched further by the stigma of different gender identities and sexualities. For example, it may be impossible for a carer to call a relative for emotional support if they cannot disclose that they are in a relationship with the person they care for.
The guide includes help on identifying as a carer, managing the caring journey and accessing support, as well as information on end-of-life affairs. Coupled with the practical information are the real stories of LGBTQ+ carers across Wales, who have benefited from support.
“I feel as if during the time I was caring, I spent six years back in the closet, after the journey of coming out” explains carer, Steven, who is quoted in the handbook.
From 25th August, the guide will be available for LGBTQ+ carers to download online, or order by emailing info@carerswales.org. Booklet orders can also be placed by schools, colleges, universities, healthcare professionals, councils, and any other front-line service providers committed to supporting those in diverse caring circumstances.
Julie Skelton, Engagement and Volunteer Officer of Carers Wales said:
“We are thrilled to be issuing this much-needed resource, which is the first of its kind to acknowledge the unique additional emotional and practical challenges of caring while LGBTQ+.”
“Working with carers on a regular basis, I have seen first-hand the ways in which poor support for LGBTQ+ individuals in early life can lead to a mistrust of care support in later life. It is our hope that this guide will give carers of all sexualities and genders the knowledge and confidence to seek the support to which they are entitled.”
Cath Harrison of Pride Cymru, said:
“We are pleased to see the launch of this resource. Resources for LGBTQ+ carers are long overdue and desperately needed. Having spent the year consulting with LGBTQ+ carers on their needs, we are proud to be able to offer a comprehensive guide that will prove invaluable to those we support.”
