Geoff Pine of TONIC Housing on BBC Breakfast

Summary

BT Plus Retirement Community, a new initiative in central London, is set to provide LGBT+ seniors with a supportive, affirming living space. Inspired by Jeff Pine's personal experiences with his terminally ill partner, the project aims to address the gap in housing services for older LGBT+ individuals, offering a space where they can live openly without fear of discrimination. With significant backing from trusts and the mayor of London, this first step towards inclusive housing is receiving enthusiastic support. Although it's a small beginning, it marks an important milestone for the community, signaling a brighter, more inclusive future for LGBT+ seniors.

Takeaways

• 😀 A new LGBT+ affirmative retirement community has been approved in central London, supported by Mayor Sadiq Khan.
• 😀 The initiative was inspired by the personal experience of Jeff Pine, whose partner, Jamie, faced homophobia during end-of-life care.
• 😀 Jamie, diagnosed with a degenerative heart condition, was subjected to homophobic treatment from a carer who prayed for his 'condemned soul.'
• 😀 Jeff Pine began researching the lack of specialized services for the older LGBT+ community after his partner's passing.
• 😀 A survey of older LGBT+ individuals revealed that 79% would favor a service that is LGBT+ affirmative and safe.
• 😀 The new community will offer shared ownership apartments at an existing care facility, One Bank House.
• 😀 The project aims to create an environment where LGBT+ seniors can live authentically, without the need to 'go back into the closet.'
• 😀 This community will be LGBT+ friendly and affirming, focusing on the well-being and dignity of its residents.
• 😀 Many members of the LGBT+ community have faced discrimination in traditional care settings, highlighting the need for this specialized service.
• 😀 The project has received widespread support from various trusts, legal teams, and housing industry professionals, making it a success so far.
• 😀 While the project is a small first step, it represents a major shift toward addressing the needs of LGBT+ seniors, with many more steps to follow.

Q & A

What motivated Jeff Pine to start the project for an LGBTQ+ affirming retirement community?

Jeff Pine's motivation for the project stemmed from his personal experience with his partner Jamie, who was terminally ill. Jamie faced homophobia from a carer, which led Jeff to realize the lack of support and specialized services for older LGBTQ+ individuals. This experience prompted him to research and eventually create a community that would provide affirming care for the LGBTQ+ elderly.

What was the specific experience Jeff Pine's partner, Jamie, faced during his illness?

Jamie, who was terminally ill, faced homophobia from a carer who would kneel and pray for his 'condemned soul' because he was gay. This treatment deeply affected Jamie, which led Jeff to recognize the broader issue of discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in care facilities.

How did Jeff Pine and his colleagues gather information on the needs of the older LGBTQ+ community?

Jeff Pine and his colleagues conducted the 'Building Safe Choices' survey, which was the largest survey of older LGBTQ+ individuals in London. The survey revealed that a significant number of respondents wanted LGBTQ+-affirming services, underscoring the need for specialized care for older members of the LGBTQ+ community.

What percentage of survey respondents expressed a preference for LGBTQ+-affirming services?

According to the survey, 79% of respondents indicated they would prefer services that are LGBTQ+-affirming, highlighting a strong demand for such facilities in the community.

What kind of living arrangement will the new LGBTQ+ affirming community provide?

The new community will offer apartments at an existing care facility, One Bank House, on a shared ownership basis. The environment will be designed to be LGBTQ+-affirmative, where residents can live openly and without fear of discrimination or having to hide their identities.

How does the project aim to create a safe and inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community?

The project aims to create a space where LGBTQ+ individuals can live authentically without having to explain themselves or face homophobia. The environment will ensure that residents are accepted for who they are, and that their identities are affirmed, in contrast to experiences where they may have to hide their sexuality or gender identity.

What is the scale of the LGBTQ+ affirming retirement community project?

The project is relatively small, being described as a first step toward creating a larger network of such communities. It is not a massive initiative but represents an important beginning in providing affirming care for LGBTQ+ seniors.

What support has the project received so far?

The project has received significant support from various trusts that provided funding, pro bono legal assistance, and help from professionals in the housing sector. Additionally, the announcement of the project garnered positive reactions and messages of support from the LGBTQ+ community.

What has been the public response to the announcement of the LGBTQ+ retirement community?

The public response has been overwhelmingly positive. The project's social media accounts were flooded with supportive messages following the announcement of funding and the loan arrangement with the Community Housing Fund.

What challenges does Jeff Pine anticipate in the future of the project?

Despite the positive reception, Jeff Pine acknowledges that there is still work to be done, particularly in combating homophobia, transphobia, and lack of understanding. He recognizes that the road ahead is challenging but is optimistic that this project is an important step in addressing these issues.