Marco Lupoli (ADVANCES Erasmus+)

(Australia)

Topic: Developing LGBTQ+ inclusive social work practices: from global principles to local contexts
Language: English

Abstract

As more countries in different parts of the world make legal and cultural progress to support LGBTQ+ communities, many social work practitioners are unsure on how to best support LGBTQ+ people and to be an ally. LGBTQ+ people are particularly vulnerable to stigma, violence and discrimination which can lead to life-threatening impacts and lasting consequences on their social and psychological health and wellbeing. Evidence shows that health outcomes improve when LGBTQ+ people are affirmed, valued and supported by the people in their world. This workshop aims to provide resources and tools for social work practitioners to design services that value diversity and where all employees, volunteers and service users can fully participate, feel respected and safe to be their authentic selves.