Case study

Gloria is a 74-year-old Black woman of African Caribbean descent who lives independently in the community. Sonia (82 years), Gloria’s partner of 40 years, has recently moved into a nursing home with a unit for adults with dementia. Gloria is not out to the care home staff but is extremely worried that a) the staff will restrict her from visiting her partner after hours and b) her partner has recently started chatting openly about their lives together with staff and telling other residents she’s bisexual.

1. What are Gloria’s concerns here?
2. What reassurance would you give to Gloria if Sonia was a resident in your home?
3. How would you make both Gloria and Sonia feel welcome and valued?
4. How would current policies in the care home support your responses?
5. Are there any policies missing and how might you take this forward?

Take from Care Under the Rainbow Case Studies produced by the Diversity Trust It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.