How can you make your human services program more inclusive for LGBTQ+ clients?

1 Use inclusive language

One of the simplest and most effective ways to make your program more inclusive for LGBTQ+ clients is to use inclusive language. This means avoiding assumptions and stereotypes based on appearance, name, or gender expression, and using terms and pronouns that respect the identity and preferences of each client. For example, you can ask clients how they would like to be addressed, use gender-neutral terms like partner or spouse instead of husband or wife, and avoid using labels or categories that may not apply to everyone, such as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender.

2 Provide LGBTQ+ training and education

Another way to make your program more inclusive for LGBTQ+ clients is to provide regular training and education for yourself and your staff on LGBTQ+ issues and best practices. This can help you increase your awareness and sensitivity, improve your communication and rapport, and address any gaps or misconceptions in your knowledge. You can also seek feedback and input from LGBTQ+ clients and community organizations, and use reputable sources and resources to update your information and skills.

3 Create a safe and affirming space

A third way to make your program more inclusive for LGBTQ+ clients is to create a safe and affirming space for them. This means ensuring that your physical environment, policies, and procedures reflect your commitment to diversity and inclusion, and that you protect the privacy and confidentiality of your clients. For example, you can display signs, posters, or symbols that show your support for LGBTQ+ rights and causes, such as rainbow flags or stickers, provide gender-neutral or accessible restrooms and facilities, and avoid asking unnecessary or intrusive questions about personal or medical history.

4 Offer LGBTQ+ specific services and referrals

A fourth way to make your program more inclusive for LGBTQ+ clients is to offer LGBTQ+ specific services and referrals, when appropriate and possible. This means recognizing and addressing the specific needs and challenges that LGBTQ+ clients may face, such as discrimination, violence, stigma, or health disparities, and providing them with relevant and tailored support and assistance. For example, you can offer counseling, support groups, or workshops that focus on LGBTQ+ topics and issues, or refer them to other agencies or professionals that specialize in LGBTQ+ care and advocacy.

5 Evaluate and improve your program

A fifth way to make your program more inclusive for LGBTQ+ clients is to evaluate and improve your program on a regular basis. This means monitoring and measuring your outcomes and impacts, soliciting and acting on feedback and suggestions, and identifying and correcting any problems or weaknesses in your program. For example, you can use surveys, interviews, or focus groups to gather data and opinions from LGBTQ+ clients and stakeholders, or conduct audits, reviews, or assessments to check your compliance and performance.

6 Celebrate and support LGBTQ+ diversity

A sixth way to make your program more inclusive for LGBTQ+ clients is to celebrate and support LGBTQ+ diversity, both within and outside your program. This means acknowledging and honoring the contributions and achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals and groups, and joining and promoting LGBTQ+ events and initiatives. For example, you can participate in LGBTQ+ pride parades, festivals, or campaigns, or partner with LGBTQ+ organizations or networks to raise awareness and funds for LGBTQ+ causes and projects.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?