Study: One in ten gay people face discrimination when arranging a funeral
A survey published today has revealed that 10% of gay, lesbian and bisexual people have experienced discrimination either at a funeral or whilst arranging one.
The study was conducted by Stonewall and The Co-operative Funeralcare, and also found that 48% of LGB people lived in fear of discrimination when dealing with bereavement.
55% of respondents over 45 said they had no financial provision in place for their own funeral.
The most likely people to discriminate against people with same-sex partners were family members and religious leaders.
Out of the respondents, 24% said they thought they would face barriers when planning a funeral, and 23% said they were worried about being treated poorly by a funeral director.
Ruth Hunt, Acting Chief Executive of Stonewall, said: “Many older lesbian, gay and bisexual people grew up in a time when they were discriminated against and persecuted simply because of who they are. It’s therefore hardly surprising that so many feel reluctant to access services to help them plan for later life.
“At Stonewall we know that we stand on the shoulders of a generation whose tireless work helped to change Britain and the world for the better. We now have a responsibility to make sure that they receive the help and support they deserve for themselves and their families. That is why we’re working with community groups and faith organisations to help make this a reality.”
