UK's First LGBTQ+ Social Housing Scheme for Over-55s to Open in Manchester Next Year

Mindy Meleyal, a 75-year-old lesbian, has lived through every major milestone in the modern LGBT rights movement. However, she notes that her age often overshadows another significant aspect of her identity. As part of England's growing older LGBTQ+ community, she faces unique challenges.

A recent report from the Centre for Ageing Better highlights the struggles faced by this demographic. Without targeted support, they may be forced to conceal their sexual orientation when accessing care, or delay receiving necessary care due to concerns about homophobia. Adam Porter, a housing development manager at the LGBT Foundation charity, frequently encounters individuals in this situation.

Porter is part of the team behind Kindred House. A landmark LGBTQ+ social housing scheme for over-55s set to open in Manchester next year. The scheme will provide 80 self-contained apartments and communal areas, with the majority of residents identifying as LGBTQ+.

This innovative project offers extra-care housing. There, residents live independently but have access to a 24/7 care team for those who need additional support.

The growing demand for specialist services in this area is a pressing concern. The number of over-50s identifying as lesbian. Gay or bisexual in the UK has risen by around a third between 2019 and 2024 – from approximately 340,000 to almost 460,000.

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This demographic growth is expected to continue. With the Centre for Ageing Better warning that the increasing demand for specialist services will soon outpace supply.

As part of this effort, Kindred House aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for older LGBTQ+ individuals. Norman Goodman, a Northern Irish activist who has been involved in various LGBT rights initiatives for over 43 years, notes that such projects are vital for addressing the unique challenges faced by this community.

Manchester On, a local charity organization, has also been working to support older LGBTQ+ individuals. Sarah Wilkinson, their director, highlights the importance of providing accessible and inclusive services to this demographic. noting that it's very common for people to hide things if they have a carer visiting their home, she says.

noting that in the case of someone moving into a care environment. That means hiding who they are in their own home, for what could be the rest of their life.

When Tim, a local advocate for older LGBTQ+ individuals, notes that such projects not only provide essential support but also help to trigger conversations about how to best support this community. In 2021, we saw a significant increase in requests from carers and care homes asking us to remove trans flags or hide LGBT materials, he says.

This is a stark reminder of the need for targeted support and services.

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For Mindy Meleyal and her wife Linda. Who have been together for over 30 years, Kindred House represents a beacon of hope for older LGBTQ+ individuals. As they navigate the challenges of aging, they are heartened to see such innovative projects emerging in their community.

Chek Min, a local resident and advocate for older LGBTQ+ individuals, notes that the lack of specialist services has led to a sense of isolation among this demographic. In 1950, I remember being forced to hide my true identity, he says.

As Kindred House prepares to open its doors, it is clear that the need for specialist services in this area will only continue to grow. By providing a safe and supportive environment. This project aims to address the unique challenges faced by older LGBTQ+ individuals and ensure that they receive the care and support they deserve.

When Tim notes that it's not just about the housing itself. However, about creating a sense of community and belonging, it is clear that Kindred House represents a major step forward in addressing the needs of this demographic. As the project prepares to open its doors next year, it is heartening to see such innovative initiatives emerging in Manchester.