Re-engage has launched a research project to engage directly with older lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender, or other non-cisgender (LGBT+) people.

This important research will help us develop new services and activities that support this group to make meaningful connections in later life and alleviate loneliness. 

We’re asking anyone aged 70 or older who identifies as LGBT+ and would like to take part in this important piece of research to complete our survey or participate in a telephone interview.  

Why our research is so important 

Existing research tells us that, as an older LGBT+ person, you are more likely to live alone, be single and less likely to see your biological family regularly.  

You are also less likely to have intergenerational relationships and children, which can often lead to your ‘family of choice’ (often made up of people of a similar age), sadly dwindling or increasingly unable to support as you age together.    

The pandemic has increased feelings of loneliness  

More recent research has shown that the pandemic has exacerbated some of the social challenges faced by older LGBT+ people.  

Many have reported feeling more lonely and socially isolated since the lockdown. For example, some say they’ve had no one locally to support with basic necessities because their friends and LGBT+ community are geographically dispersed.    

All of these factors can lead to an increased risk of social isolation and loneliness.   

Organised groups and services can help 

However, research also shows that attending LGBT+ specific groups and services has been shown to help “alleviate isolation” and create valuable social connections.    

Indeed, those older LGBT+ people who form social networks through these groups and services, particularly with other older LGBT+ people, are often “cushioned from feeling isolated and lonely”.  

Our research focuses on the ‘older old’ 

While the existing research is very insightful, it is largely focused on LGBT+ people aged 50 and above. As a result, there is a distinct lack of understanding about the specific needs and experiences of the ‘oldest old’.    

In response to this, our exciting research will focus on LGBT+ people aged 70 and older. The findings will help us to develop new services and activities that help build social connections and companionship within this group.  

Help us deliver life-changing services 

If you are aged 70 or older, identify as LGBT+ and wish to take part in this important piece of research, please do get in touch.   

You don’t need to have experience of loneliness or social isolation to take part; we want to hear from people with a wide range of needs and experiences.  

 You can support our research in the following ways:  

• complete our anonymous online survey by 25 July 2021  
• participation in a telephone interview  

As loneliness and social isolation continues to blight the lives of increasing numbers of older people, we are determined to leave no one behind. 

Find out more about this project.