Learning from LGBTIQ+ experiences of COVID-19 in the UK for future crises: Recommendations to policymakers and practitioners for more inclusive strategies

This policy brief highlights the experiences of lesbian, gay,
bisexual, transgender, intersex, and other queer identities
(LGBTIQ+) during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
pandemic in 2020. While LGBTIQ+ people experience
unique vulnerabilities linked to pre-existing marginalisation,
their needs are often overlooked in crisis response strategies.
This brief offers recommendations for improving the care
and wellbeing of LGBTIQ+ people in future crises based on
lessons learned during the pandemic. The brief summarises
key challenges faced, and the coping capacities adopted by
LGBTIQ+ people. Their main concerns were related to
mental health and isolation, including isolation from support
networks and identity-affirming spaces. Sub-group specific
challenges included disrupted transgender healthcare access,
employment impacts, and “one size fits all” guidelines and
government communication approaches that did not align
with the diversity of LGBTIQ+ families and lives. Many of
the coping capacities interviewees relied on were drawn from
prior experiences of surviving marginalisation or distress.
Participants, in particular, highlighted the importance of
LGBTIQ+ organisations and community and peer-support
groups. Future policy interventions for providing effective
support during crises should strengthen existing coping
capacities, community groups and support services. Policies
and strategies must also better-recognise diversity within
LGBTIQ+ communities and other minority groups.