Research for homeless charity Porchlight shows that more support is needed for people identifying as LGBTQ in youth homelessness projects.
The report, conducted by Kent PhD student Carin Tunaker, discusses the multiple and complex reasons for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning (LGBTQ) youth homelessness and makes a number of key recommendations for housing providers to support this vulnerable and stigmatised group.
The report finds that young people can feel safer within homeless services by talking openly about sexual orientation or gender identity, and challenging homophobic language.
Recommendations also included more attention should be paid to display information, such as posters and leaflets, which indicate that the service is an LGBTQ-friendly space without there being a fear of stigmatisation.
The report highlights a need for staff to be trained in LGBTQ monitoring in order to gain more realistic numbers of those with housing concerns and need of homelessness provision.
Carin Tunaker is a member of the University’s School of Anthropology and Conservation.
To request a copy of the report ‘Flying the flag: Making a difference to homeless LGBTQ youth’ please email: media@porchlight.org.uk.