Local aged care provider Eldercare has developed a short film for staff training that promotes the organisation as a safe and welcoming place for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) people.

The film, recently launched by Minister for Human Services the Hon Michelle Lensink MLC, aims to answer questions about LGBTI issues with compassion and humour.

In 2019 Eldercare received Rainbow Tick accreditation, demonstrating its commitment to being an inclusive and welcoming space for LGBTI people. Key to the accreditation was training of staff in LGBTI cultural awareness and LGBTI consumer engagement.

Eldercare made the short film ‘You can ask that’, enabling it to build on great practice changes that helped achieve accreditation.

Eldercare Chief Executive, Jane Pickering said, “We have made the film to debunk the myths that are still out there surrounding our LGBTI residents, staff, volunteers and families.

“We hope that staff and the public appreciate hearing the responses from our LGBTI residents, volunteers, staff and allies, to continue to expand understanding of LGBTI issues, build knowledge of inclusive practice and continue to make Eldercare a warm, safe and welcoming space,” said Jane.

Eldercare is committed to becoming a provider of choice for LGBTI people. At Eldercare everyone is respected and their needs are understood, and Eldercare will provide a safe and supportive environment for LGBTI residents, staff, volunteers and families. Eldercare applied for a Grant for Seniors, from Office for Ageing Well, to further develop LGBTI cultural awareness among staff and residents.

The positive response to the film has been overwhelming with congratulations from Council on the Ageing SA, the Minister’s Office, Office for Ageing Well and sponsors Atlas McNeil and Veolia. LGBTI staff and residents have expressed gratitude for raising the sensitive issues.

Eldercare will use the film in staff training, recruitment, and for residents during Pride Month at its residential care facilities.

Eldercare received Grants for Seniors funding in 2019-20, from Office for Ageing Well, SA Health to develop the short film. Click here for more information about Ageing Well Community Grants.

For more information on the short film or Eldercare’s LGBTI strategies, please contact Christine Morris on 8291 1000 or visit www.eldercare.net.au