- Conference
- 2010 National LGBT Conference
- Date
- 29 July 2010
- Decision
- Carried
Conference notes with concern continued lack of visibility of LGBT health needs within the health service.
As we know massive cuts are planned for front line services and many PCT are under pressure to make savings as well as being at threat of being abolished, to be replaced by local GP consortia.
As many LGBT health issues are either invisible until diagnosis (HIV) or considered to not be necessary (Cervical smear tests) there is a growing number of people who may be refused access to critical health screening.
Conference is concerned that current budgets for LGBT health care provision will be reduced first as there may not be any hard data showing evidence of need, and awareness campaigns and information will reduce, and the health of our community will worsen potentially putting lives at risk.
We need to ensure that funding is available for LGBT health screening and treatment, and that it is available as and when we need to access our health service.
Conference therefore instructs the National LGBT Committee to:
1.Raise the issue of service provision for LGBT people, especially at a time of cuts to services with the Healthcare Service Group and the Labour Link;
2.Promote screening for LGBT people e.g. HIV and cervical screening through Out in UNISON and as part of our campaign against cuts to health services;
3.Seek to collaborate with other bodies as appropriate to promote accessible health screening for LGBT people and to promote take up.