Being LGBTQ+ and a carer can bring additional challenges that others may not understand. You may have fears about being discriminated against and facing stigma. This may lead to you feeling isolated and unsure how to access support.
Here are some organisations that can help:
- The LGBT Foundation is a national charity that gives information, support and advice to lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans communities, including a phone and email helpline. They support people to increase their self-confidence, knowledge and skills so they can maintain and improve their health and wellbeing.
- The Proud Trust is a youth charity based in Manchester. They help LGBTQ+ young people empower themselves, creating a positive change for themselves and their community. They run a variety of youth groups for ages from 11 to 25 which give people a chance to chat to new people, learn new skills and have fun.
- Rainbow Noir is a volunteer-led organisation that creates safe places for people of colour who identify as LGBTQ+ so they can meet, form friendships and find community. Their monthly social spaces run both online and in person.
- Albert Kennedy Trust supports LGBTQ+ young people (aged 16-25) who are experiencing homelessness or living in a hostile or abusive environment. They provide support and advocacy to find emergency accommodation and to develop skills, identify and achieve life goals. Their online hub gives easy access to information on helplines, online support, groups and networks.
If you need someone to talk to, you can contact:
- MindOut – a mental health service run by and for lesbians, gay, bisexual, trans and queer people
- Switchboard – the national LGBT+ helpline
- Pink Therapy – an online directory of qualified therapists who identify as, or are understanding of, minority sexual and gender identities.
If you are caring for someone with HIV, the Terrence Higgins Trust provides a wealth of information for anyone who is living with or newly diagnosed with this condition – including FAQs about Covid-19 and HIV. And this guide from the UN offers advice for carers on the importance of good nutrition in living well with HIV.
If you’d like more information, call our Contact Point helpline on 0161 543 8000 or email us at contactpoint@carersmanchester.org.uk (Monday–Friday, 10am – 4pm, except bank holidays, and 10am – 6pm on Wednesdays).
