Embracing diversity: Supporting LGBTQIA+ people with disability
Introduction
Finding the right support and understanding can make a huge difference in the lives of LGBTQIA+ people with disability. Feeling safe and accepted can really improve how you feel every day. But how can you make sure the help you get is fair and free from discrimination?
Understanding LGBTQIA+ identities
The acronym LGBTIQA+ represents a range of sexual orientations and gender identities.
Here's a quick breakdown:
LGBTQIA: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual
+: symbolises openness to embracing additional identities like non-binary and pansexual, which people use to express their sexuality, gender, and relationships.
Making inclusive, safe, and friendly spaces
Making sure everyone feels safe and included is important to us. We know that people with disability who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community may face extra challenges because of who they are. So, we work hard to make sure our services are welcoming to everyone. Our support workers are trained to understand and help people with different needs, making sure everyone receives the supports they need to thrive.
Finding your community
One of the best feelings is finding people who understand and support you. But for many people with disability who identify as LGBTQIA+, finding a group where they feel they belong can be tough. Joining local or online communities that celebrate diversity can help you feel like you're not alone. Groups like Qlife and Rainbow Rights and Advocacy offer online chats and local meet-ups, providing a safe space to connect with others who share your experiences and offer support. Also, joining events and support groups just for LGBTQIA+ people with disability can be really empowering.
Overcoming challenges
Being part of two groups that face discrimination can be hard. Sometimes it may feel like nobody gets what you're dealing with. You may have trouble getting the help you need, or face obstacles that make it hard to access the right services. These barriers may include physical accessibility issues or people not understanding your needs. But we're here to help break down those barriers. Our support workers who provide individualised support to LGBTQIA+ people with disability know about the challenges faced. They work hard to make sure everyone gets the help they need in a supportive and understanding way.
Where to get help
It can be overwhelming trying to figure everything out on your own, but there are places you can turn to for support. Alongside our disability services at Endeavour Foundation, there are other organisations and hotlines that can help:
- QLife: Offers free and anonymous support for LGBTQIA+ people in Australia.
- Pride Foundation Australia: Supports projects that help LGBTQIA+ people, including those with disabilities.
- Beyond Blue: Provides mental health support, with resources for both the disability and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Supporting double diversity
We're proud to support LGBTQIA+ people with disability by offering a safe, inclusive, and understanding space. We know how important it is to find a supportive community and we understand the challenges of being part of two groups that might face discrimination. Our goal is to make sure everyone feels respected and supported. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels like they belong, turning possibilities into reality, no matter who they are or what challenges they face.