Focus May. 2016 | Page 22

Rainbow Survey shines light on health and support THE IMPORTANCE of mental and physical health, and access to support and safety, were highlighted in a recent survey of South Australia’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer (LGBTIQ) community. There were 380 responses to the Rainbow Survey, conducted by the Department for Communities and Social Inclusion (DCSI) to engage with people who identify as LGBTIQ. Despite significant progress, LGBTIQ people are still subject to discrimination and exclusion, and young people are particularly vulnerable. For example, a 2010 national report that found that more than 60% of gender-questioning young people reported verbal abuse and 18% had experienced physical abuse. The research also identified strong links between abuse and feeling unsafe, drug use, self-harm and suicide. In 2014, DCSI launched a strategy to reduce prejudice and improve service to the LGBTIQ community. The strategy supports a South Australia of the future where everyone can fully participate in our social and economic life. Click here for more information or to read the Rainbow Survey Report and strategy 22