Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people with communication support needs

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people aren’t just LGBT.  They are fathers and mothers, disabled, black, men and women, of faith and none. LGBT people are part of every community.  Sometimes they are hidden and do not wish to be identified.  Or they may simply have decided there is no need to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity. The important thing is not to assume everyone in the room is heterosexual (straight) or non-transgender.

The Equality Network recognises that people with communication support needs are part of every community also and that for LGBT people with communications support needs the problems that can arise are similar to those which can affect all LGBT people.  But in many cases, they can be aggravated by possible double discrimination or a lack of understanding about the needs of the people involved.

Use of language

People use language which is most comfortable to them. A common term is LGBT.  This stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.  Another is Queer, and we sometimes hear homosexual. Indeed there are many words used when referring to a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

A cautionary note: some LGBT people may have reclaimed derogatory words such as ‘dyke’; ‘fag’; or ‘queer’ to describe themselves.  It isn’t appropriate for you or your organisation to use these words however. As a general rule people should avoid using the label ‘homosexual’ since it is still viewed negatively.

Most people are happy with lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.  If in doubt ask the person. Some people may not know how to describe or label their sexual orientation or gender identity, it is not always important to do so.

For people with communications support needs it can often be difficult to express the language they want to use or are comfortable with.   It is important to take the time to establish this with the person involved to ensure they are included in your work or training. Often it is best just to ask during the first meeting, in private.

We all have one

We all have a sexual orientation and a gender identity. The majority of people are male or female, and heterosexual. However, some people have different sexual orientations and gender identities. We do not choose our sexual orientation or gender identity.

It is important that everyone is given the opportunity to express their sexual orientation or gender identity in which ever way they see fit.  People with communication support needs have the right to do the same.  

Making choices

It was widely acknowledged that LGBT people with a disability who are dependent upon carers or support for day-to-day support are often reluctant to reveal their sexual orientation or gender identity.  They feel it may simply complicate their lives. This may be particularly true for individuals who are dependent upon their parents, friends or carers for practical support.  

A number of research reports confirm that there is a widespread belief that people with a disability cannot have sexual relationships; one is an Equality Network report (http://www.scottishlgbt.org/Resource/OnSafeGround.aspx).  This is particularly the case with regard to people with learning disabilities.

In a recent Equality Network report one interviewee explained that it was only after the death of his parents that he finally realised that he was gay. Up until that point, he had accepted the view expressed by his family that he would never find a partner as he was disabled.

People with communications support needs should always be consulted about their sexual and reproductive choices in the way that they wish to communicate. A person with communications support needs my chose not to talk openly about these choices, or may not have the tools or support to do so. This does not mean that they have taken the decision not to enter into relationships.

Top Tips

Recognise that people with communication support needs are part of every community. 

Avoid making assumptions about a person’s sexual orientation.  Use gender-neutral

language such as partner. Everyone has a sexual orientation.

Listen to how people describe their own identity, partners and relationships and

reflect their choice of language.

Display a visible non-discrimination statement.  Or make it clear at the start of an event or programme that your organisation provides equality of services and care to everyone, regardless of people’s sexual orientation identity, gender identity, race, age or disability.

Ensure confidentiality to all staff and service users, unless they personally choose to be ‘out’ themselves.

Explore ways of creatively integrating LGBT issues into your work rather than separating them out or having them as an add on.

Equality Network

This section was written by the Equality Network, a Scottish charity working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people across Scotland. You can find out more about us and other charities working for LGBT equality on our website www.scottishlgbt.org

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