Launch of Eurocarers’ Position Paper on LGBTI carers
The experience of LGBTI carers remains largely invisible in policy, advocacy and research in Europe – both in the context of the carers’ movement, and LGBTI movements. Notably, the current EU LGBTIQ Strategy 2020-2025 does not address long-term care, and similarly the 2022 EU Care Strategy overlooks LGBTI people and other minority groups. This disjointed approach to social policy hampers the ability to respond to people’s needs adequately, moving away from the principle of ‘person-centred care’.
Drawing from Eurocarers’ long-established experience in working with and for informal carers, this position paper examines current evidence on how being LGBTI affects experiences of informal care in Europe. It sheds light upon the challenges and needs faced by LGBTI carers, as well as their distinctive caregiving approaches, which offer invaluable insights for society as a whole. The paper also formulates a set of principles and recommendations to better support LGBTI carers through policy, advocacy, research, and practice.
This paper aims to inspire policy makers, researchers and practitioners to pay closer attention to the intersectionality of compounded discrimination faced by this and other minority groups in caregiving roles. Recognising and valuing the diversity of informal care experiences is crucial for shaping policies that support individuals on their caregiving journeys, and for ensuring that people can continue to care for others. This approach enhances the understanding of informal care as a complex and rich field of study.
Eurocarers would like to thank all individuals and organisations whose contributions made this position paper possible.
For queries contact gl@eurocarers.org
