LGBT Ireland have created a Facebook group to help older LGBT+ people overcome difficulties with socialisation caused by COVID-19 lockdown.

The Facebook group, LGBTI+ Older and Bolder, is an exciting initiative bringing together older members of the community who have been isolated from socialising opportunities due to the pandemic. On LGBT Ireland’s Facebook page, they write, “We have tonnes of exciting events, ideas and plans for making this group a vibrant, fun and positive space. Now all we need is you to join in and get involved in the conversation!”

Older LGBT+ people face particular challenges in the face of the ongoing pandemic. The “double invisibility” a person may experience results in feelings of loneliness and disconnect from their community. In 2018, it was reported that 77% of elderly people who contacted LGBT Ireland Helpline cited rural isolation as a major concern.

During COVID-19, these feelings of isolation among older LGBT+ people can be heightened because of social distancing and a widespread lockdown. This has impacted many members of the queer community in terms of their employment and social life. Read more via GCN