Public Involvement Report: Learning the Narratives and Expectations of Health and Care Needs for Older LGBTQ+ People

Older LGBTQ+ adults face persistent inequalities in health and social care, often shaped by historical trauma and systemic exclusion, raising critical questions about how ageing can be supported equitably. This public involvement project explored the narratives and expectations of older LGBTQ+ individuals regarding ageing, health, and social care. Public involvement events were organised and facilitated by an interdisciplinary group of academics between January and April 2025 in Cardiff, Exeter, and Bristol, locations chosen for their rural, coastal, and urban contexts. Creative participatory methods were used to engage LGBTQ+ individuals, aged 50 years old and over, in discussion and sharing narratives. The work found attendees wanting to talk about themes of isolation and invisibility in society, and within LGBTQ+ spaces, the need for inclusive spaces, as well as concerns about discrimination in healthcare settings. Throughout the three events, there was a clear desire among attendees for future research and advocacy, alongside the emergence of a strong community network committed to inclusive and affirming care. These insights can help guide future research projects and initiatives aimed at improving support for LGBTQ+ ageing.