How Do Portuguese Care Providers Address Disability and LGBT Identity in Their Work?

Despite growing interest in the sexuality and gender identity of people with disabilities (PWD), this topic remains underexplored in both research and institutional policies, owing to prevailing views that ignore PWD sexual life. This contributes to the invisibility of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans (LGBT) and to inadequate attention to the specific needs of LGBT people with disabilities (LGBT PWD). Background/

Objectives

Given the lack of Portuguese studies that examine the intersection of LGBT and disability identities, this study aimed to understand professionals' attitudes and practices toward PWD regarding sexuality and LGBT belonging.

Methods

We conducted qualitative research using semi-structured interviews with eleven professionals (two psychologists, three occupational therapists, and six personal assistants). We analyzed the data using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Key findings highlight professionals' limited knowledge, prevailing cis-heteronormative attitudes, and emerging affirmative practices.

Conclusions

Training and institutional changes are needed to make services more inclusive and responsive to the needs of LGBT PWD.