LGBTIQ+ Health Australia lodged a submission in response to the Select Committee on Work and Care’s inquiry on how combining work and care responsibilities will impact the wellbeing of workers, carers, and those they care for.
Many LGBTI older people have experienced discrimination and prejudice when accessing formal care, making them cautious about letting unknown people into their own home. Thus, many turn to informal carers for support. LHA’s submission highlighted the important role of informal carers along with the challenges they might face in their role such as isolation, lack of support, and stigma. Being an informal carer can also lead to a struggle in balancing professional lives, personal lives, and care duties and puts the person at risk of increased financial hardships.
The submission also touched on the impact the COVID-19 crisis had on the care system, particularly when it comes to the LGBTIQ+ population. Lessons learned were also mentioned such as promoting equitable access, addressing the concern of isolation among older LGBTI people, and speaking up against ageism and damaging stereotypes.
For more information please check: https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Work_and_Care/workandcare