Speak Out With Dementia

Speak Out with Dementia is a new online peer support group run by Opening Doors London, for people with a diagnosis of dementia who identify as LGBTQ+

Many older LGBTQ+ people have experienced prejudice, discrimination and social exclusion over many decades. LGBTQ+ people living with dementia can face double stigma and challenges as there is also prejudice against people with dementia. In many parts of the UK there is a lack of appropriate support for LGBTQ+ people affected by dementia.

Speak Out with Dementia is a safe space for LGBTQ+ people who are adjusting to the challenges of living with dementia to support each other and express their own thoughts and feelings, knowing that their life experiences, relationships and identity won’t be questioned. In mixed support groups where people with dementia and carers attend together, it is often the case that carers do most of the talking and people with dementia do not always get the chance to speak for themselves or set the agenda.