LGBT+ groups establish COVID-19 funeral fund for older LGBT+ people who are without support networks.
Elders within the LGBT+ community are especially at risk during this pandemic because they are more likely to live alone and have poorer health status.
Reuters reports, “As lockdowns are imposed around the world to stop the spread of coronavirus, LGBT+ groups are scrambling to support older members of their community who are more likely to live alone and suffer from poor health than their heterosexual peers.”
In the UK, a coalition of LGBT+ charities and advocates has applied for a government grant of £20,000 to help create a funeral fund for LGBT+ elders who do not have any family support.
Within the overall UK population, older adults have been more severely affected by COVID-19 than anyone else. Conditions identified as making individuals more vulnerable are those generally associated with
inequalities such as socio-economic exclusion. Having faced job discrimination, this is more likely to encompass LGBT+ elders.
Older LGBT+ people who live alone are being encouraged to reach out during lockdown. Switchboard, a community helpline, is available to talk. Call 0300 330 0630 to speak to someone.