Local Healthwatch is pleased to announce the release of a new report that captures the lived experiences of the LGBTQ+ community in accessing local health and care services. The report, titled “Your Voice Matters: LGBTQ+ community experiences of health and care services,” provides valuable insights into the challenges and successes faced by individuals identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning (LGBTQ+) in Leicester and Leicestershire.
With 82 individuals participating, the survey offers a snapshot of how local services are meeting—or falling short of meeting—the needs of LGBTQ+ people in our area.
Key themes that emerged from the survey include:
- Accessibility: Some participants reported difficulties in accessing services due to long waiting times, lack of LGBTQ+ specific services and inadequate knowledge among healthcare professionals about LGBTQ+ issues.
- Cultural competency: Respondents highlighted a need for greater awareness and understanding among healthcare providers regarding LGBTQ+ identities and the specific health needs associated with them.
- Experiences of discrimination: Some survey participants recounted instances where they felt judged or discriminated against due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Positive experiences: Despite the challenges, there were also accounts of positive interactions where individuals felt supported and respected by their healthcare providers.
The report has ten key recommendations aimed at addressing the gaps identified in the survey responses.
Speaking about the report, Harsha Kotecha, Chair, Healthwatch Leicester and Healthwatch Leicestershire said,
“The ‘Your Voice Matters’ survey provides an important lens into the healthcare experiences of the LGBTQ+ community in our region. While the sample is not fully representative of all LGBTQ+ individuals, the findings offer crucial insights that we can use to drive positive change. We are committed to working with local health and care providers to implement these recommendations and ensure that everyone, regardless of their identity, receives the care and respect they deserve.”
Read the report
https://healthwatchll.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/HWLL-LGBTQ-Insight-report-August-2024.pdf