Jo Baker (she/her) and Gen Smyth (she/her) are colleague network leads at RCOT. Jo leads the LGBTQIA+ Colleague Network and Gen leads the Disability and Menopause Colleague Networks.
They’ve taken some time to reflect on the intersecting challenges between LGBTQIA+ and disabled experiences and what we can do as allies to support people.
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As we transition from LGBTQIA+ Pride Month in June to Disability Pride Month in July, we want to recognise the unique challenges and experiences faced by individuals who belong to both the LGBTQIA+ and disabled communities.
As both months recognise the strength, resilience and community formed within these two marginalised groups, everyone can take the allyship skills and awareness we develop to show support and solidarity.
For those whose LGBTQIA+ and disabled identities intersect, it often leads to compounded discrimination and further marginalisation – even within spaces for their community.
Shared struggles and unique challenges
Both the LGBTQIA+ and disabled communities face significant societal barriers. Discrimination, lack of accessibility and social exclusion are common issues.
For LGBTQIA+ individuals with disabilities, these challenges are often amplified. According to Stonewall, one in five LGBTQIA+ people have experienced a hate crime or incident due to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity in the last 12 months, and one in three disabled people feel that disability prejudice is still commonplace. With double discrimination, this can lead to higher rates of mental health issues and social isolation.
Accessibility in LGBTQIA+ spaces
One of the critical issues for disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals is the accessibility of LGBTQIA+ spaces.
Many events and venues, such as clubs and marches, are not designed with disabled people in mind. Sadly this is compounded by many LGBTQIA+ spaces having to take place in older or cheaper venues.
This exclusion can prevent disabled individuals from fully participating in community activities and celebrations.
Efforts are being made to address these issues, with organisations like ParaPride working to create inclusive events that cater to the needs of disabled LGBTQIA+ people.
Mental health and wellbeing
Mental health is a significant concern for both communities. Disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals often face higher rates of mental health issues due to the compounded stress of managing multiple marginalised identities. A survey by Bi Pride UK found that 59% of disabled LGBTQIA+ people had considered suicide at some point, compared to 31% of non-disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals.
This stark difference highlights the urgent need for targeted mental health support and resources.
Advocacy and support
Several organisations in the UK are dedicated to supporting disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals. Groups like Regard, Deaf Rainbow UK, and Disabled, Queer and Here provide vital resources, advocacy and community spaces.
These organisations work to raise awareness, combat social isolation and promote inclusivity within both the LGBTQIA+ and disabled communities.
Moving forward
As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, it’s crucial to continue advocating for the rights and inclusion of disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals.
This includes making LGBTQIA+ spaces more accessible, providing targeted mental health support and raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by this intersectional community.
By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
Let’s use this time to reflect on how we can better support and empower disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met. Together, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
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Our thanks to Gen and Jo for their reflections. If you'd like to learn more about Disability Pride, you can find out more at our webpage – Disability Pride Month at RCOT.