Working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people: older people and residential care: Roger's story

In this video we meet Roger who talks about his experiences of care provided to a friend in residential care and hospice care provided for his partner. When David, a friend and former partner, was diagnosed with presenile dementia, Roger was happy to disclose information about David and his relationship but he felt that the staff at the home lacked empathy. The home learnt from their experience of working with Roger and David, making improvements so that the resident and those connected to them, felt safe, and comfortable to ‘come out’.

In 2002 Roger’s partner Michael was diagnosed with cancer which saw him enter a hospice. Both decided from the outset to be ‘out’ to the carers and health professionals working with them. The staff made the effort to understand the needs of the couple so they could provide appropriate support. Roger felt involved in Michael’s care provision and that their relationship was honoured and respected.

Messages for practice

Who will find this useful?

Commissioners; directors of adult social services; social workers; social care workers; service users, their carers and families; social care and social work students; the general public.