Opening doors is a lifeline for many

Published: 10 February, 2011

• CAMDEN proposes to withdraw its funding for Age Concern’s older LGBT work within “Opening doors”. 

This could have tragic consequences for the scheme’s users. It exists to help and support older gay people in the borough. Many gay men and women have lived a lifetime facing discrimination and hostility. In old age we are sometimes understandably hesitant to access the mainstream NHS or social service providers we need, feeling unsure of the welcome we’d get. “Opening doors” is a lifeline for us. Its varied programme of social activities helps older gay people to overcome the isolation which is so damaging to mental and physical well-being. It will be a personal disaster for many if withdrawal of funding forces this scheme to close.

DAVID MITCHELL, Address supplied