Prioritising Inclusivity and Equity in Service Design
Pride Month is a powerful annual reminder of the importance of creating safe, inclusive and empowering spaces for LGBTQIA+ people so they can thrive without fear of discrimination.
Though it traces its roots to the 1969 Stonewall uprising and the long struggle for liberation, Pride Month now spans the globe, celebrating the diversity, resilience and achievements of LGBTQIA+ communities. At the same time, it shines a light on the persistent challenges that remain. In Australia, two-thirds of LGBTQIA+ young people still report being bullied or harassed because of their identity, nearly half of all lesbian, gay and bisexual adults experience high psychological distress, and 70 percent of trans Australians aged 16–34 have lived with a mental illness.
These realities underscore the urgent need for commissioners, policymakers and service providers to design and fund tailored, culturally-safe and responsive supports that address the distinct needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals and ensure every service environment is genuinely inclusive.
The Role of Commissioners in Addressing LGBTQIA+ Needs
Commissioners play a pivotal role in shaping the services that LGBTQIA+ communities rely on, whether in healthcare, education, or social services. Yet, commissioning effectively for these populations presents challenges.
Collecting Comprehensive Data
A significant barrier for commissioners is the lack of detailed data on LGBTQIA+ populations. Without this information, it is difficult to understand specific health outcomes, service access issues, and the needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals. This data gap can lead to service provision gaps and exacerbate existing health disparities. As the federal government considers including LGBTQIA+ people in the national census for the first time, this could be a crucial step in gathering the necessary data to inform more effective commissioning decisions.
Addressing Stigma and Discrimination in Services
It is essential that services are not only accessible but also affirming and respectful of the diverse experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community. Commissioners must work closely with LGBTQIA+ organisations and community members to ensure that commissioned services genuinely meet the needs of those they serve. This includes ensuring that service providers are adequately trained in LGBTQIA+ issues and that the environments—both physical and digital—in which services are delivered are welcoming and safe.
Overcoming Challenges in Commissioning for LGBTQIA+ Communities
Employ LGBTQIA+ Individuals to Bring Lived Experience into the Organisation
To truly understand and address the needs of LGBTQIA+ communities, commissioners can employ LGBTQIA+ individuals within their organisations. Lived experience is invaluable in designing and delivering services that resonate with the community. Establishing LGBTQIA+ community advisory groups can also provide ongoing insights and guidance, shaping services to be both relevant and effective.
Establish LGBTQIA+ Advisory Groups to Ensure Community Voices Are Heard
LGBTQIA+ advisory groups offer critical feedback on service delivery, highlight emerging needs, and suggest ways to improve inclusivity and accessibility. Integrating these advisory groups into the decision-making process ensures that the perspectives of LGBTQIA+ people are considered at all stages of service design and implementation, leading to more effective and responsive services.
Include LGBTQIA+ Needs in Local Assessments to Tailor Services
Commissioners must ensure that LGBTQIA+ populations are explicitly recognised in local needs assessments. This involves gathering data and directly engaging with LGBTQIA+ communities to understand their unique challenges and priorities.
Set Standards for Providers to Ensure LGBTQIA+ Responsiveness
Commissioners can establish clear standards that providers must meet to ensure LGBTQIA+ responsiveness. This may include ensuring that service environments are welcoming, staff are trained in cultural competence, and services are delivered in ways that affirm LGBTQIA+ identities and experiences.
Threading Inclusivity Through the Commissioning Cycle
To commission effectively for LGBTQIA+ populations, inclusivity must be embedded in every stage of the commissioning cycle. From data collection and needs assessment to service design, delivery, and evaluation, the unique needs and experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals must be at the forefront of decision-making.
At Rebbeck, we are committed to supporting commissioners in this endeavour. By helping to collect meaningful data, engage with LGBTQIA+ communities, and design truly inclusive services, we contribute to a more equitable and supportive environment for all.
Pride Month is a powerful reminder of the importance of this work and a call to action for commissioners across Australia.
If you want to understand more about how to co-design services and improve the way you commission for community needs, get in touch.
