Throughout the month of February, we have been celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month across the Excelcare family.

As an inclusive company, we always encourage the people who live and work in our care homes to share their stories and continue to learn more about LGBTQ+ history as well as how far society has come in its acceptance of people who identify within this community.

The people who live in our homes have witnessed the changing views about LGBTQ+ people in society, and so their stories and personal experiences were encouraged to be shared throughout the month. Alongside these personal stories from residents, we invited our team members to share their stories and any life experiences they would like to highlight.

After sharing this plea, a Team Leader at Lime Court Care Home came forward to share his experiences in his personal life and at his place of work.

“My name is Alex and I'm a Team Leader at Lime Court Care Home. I identify as a gay man and have been made to feel so welcome within the Excelcare family. The team at Lime Court has been so supportive and accepting.

“Over the years, I have not been a victim, but I have experienced some hate towards myself and my partner for being homosexual, from verbal abuse to physical. It is hard sometimes to speak up due to the pressure and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. But now that I’m older and more educated, it's a lot easier. That's not taking away the risk of hate crime happening again, it's just that I have a better understanding. Sadly, I feel there is not enough education on this and understanding for the generation growing up.

“I find myself a lot happier now - having friends and family who are supportive and work colleagues who I can trust and talk to if I need support.

“LGBTQ+ hate crime is on such a rise due to the pressure on the police departments and sadly there is not much that can be done, other than having someone to be there for you.

“I personally live a happy life and enjoy myself to best I can. I know I can be myself and be safe around my work family and my family outside of work, and that is what really matters to me. Equality and diversity are very important in your work environment and at Lime Court that is 100% promoted and put in action.”

Although Alex shared some difficult truths, we feel it is important to follow an inclusive and open culture, as we learn about these experiences and reflect on what we can do to evoke change and provide support, both as a society and as an employer.

As we continue to support LGBTQ+ celebration events and milestones we hope to see positive experiences and acceptance cast a shadow over the negative.