This report has been compiled by 'Opening Doors in Thanet', a group of older people living in the Isle of Thanet, who are aware of and want to help service-providers understand the difficulties, and improve the lives, of Lesbian, Gay Bi-sexual and Transgendered (LGBT) older people. It is based on the results of a questionnaire sent out to sheltered housing providers, residential homes, nursing homes, care companies and day centres catering for the older population of Thanet.
The findings indicated that residential and nursing homes, care companies and day centres need more information about LGBT people. Embarrassment and fear on the part of some staff may have contributed to some negative responses to the questionnaire. However, there is an indication of a welcome level of awareness in sheltered accommodation.