Are you an LGBTI carer? Find support and services to help you

 

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) carers face the same stresses and pressures as other carers. But you may also face added problems of discrimination.

LGBTI carers can use all the same supports and services as other carers, including financial help, respite services and help and advice in many areas.

There are also many organisations and resources designed specifically to help LGBTI carers. It’s important for you to find support to help you and the person you care for.

Getting information and support

There are many organisations and services that can help.

• National LGBTI Health Alliance – has a list of organisations that provide health services for the LGBTI community on their members webpage, and has also developed an LGBTI carer services network
• QLife – provides free, anonymous, counselling and referral for people wanting to talk about issues including sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships
• Beyondblue has information and support for members of the LGBTI community
• Carers Australia – has branches in every state and territory who provide support and resources for LGBTI carers:
  • Carers Australian Capital Territory
  • Carers New South Wales
  • Carers Northern Territory
  • Carers Queensland
  • Carers South Australia
  • Carers Tasmania
  • Carers Victoria
  • Carers Western Australia

• The Department of Health has put together resources for LGBTI ageing and aged care
• The Australian Government has developed a National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Ageing and Aged Care Strategy to target the needs of LGBTI carers
• DrugRehab has information for LGBTI people dealing with addiction, as members of the LGBTI community have higher rates of substance abuse than the general population
• Dementia Australia has information and resources if you are caring for someone with dementia, including a booklet for LGBTI carers

LGBTI carer rights

It’s also important to remember that you have the same legal rights as any other carer, both when you receive services and at work. You:

• have the right to be treated with respect and considered as a partner with other care providers
• have the right to privacy and confidentiality
• can’t be discriminated against at work you because you are a carer
• can ask for flexible working arrangement because you are a carer
• have the right to take leave to care for family or household members
   

• Stress
• Home help
• Work